When it comes to must-have images, you cannot forget the wedding gown photos. The wedding gown—the star of the show, second only to the bride herself! Right?!
Your wedding dress is more than just a piece of clothing—it’s a symbol of the journey leading up to your big day. All the excitement, the endless fittings, and maybe even a few (or a hundred) Pinterest boards have gone into finding the one. So, it’s only fair that your wedding gown gets its own moment to shine in your photo gallery!
For all you brides and photographers out there, this post is dedicated to the dress—because before the bride steps into it and it becomes part of the love story, the gown deserves its time in the spotlight. Whether you’re planning your wedding or capturing one, these five must-have wedding gown photos of just the dress will ensure that its beauty is immortalized forever.
Wedding Gown Photo #1 – The Hanging Moment
Before the wedding day really gets rolling, there’s that quiet moment when the gown is hanging there, waiting for its grand debut. It’s a little like that magical moment before the curtain rises at a show—you know something amazing is about to happen, but for now, it’s just waiting, in all its elegant glory.
Why it’s a must-have: This is the shot that encapsulates anticipation. It shows the gown in its pristine, untouched form—waiting for the bride to bring it to life. Plus, it’s the shot that brides will love to look back on and reminisce about all the pre-wedding excitement.
Photographer tip: Location is everything for this shot. Choose a spot where the dress can hang naturally, preferably against a simple, elegant backdrop. A window with natural light pouring in is always a good idea, or a chic spot in the bridal suite that offers a sense of place. Keep the background uncluttered—this is all about the gown. If you can, aim for an angle where the dress looks its best, maybe from the side to show off the train or straight on for a more dramatic feel.
Bride tip: Invest in a beautiful hanger! Seriously, it’ll make a world of difference in the photos. A personalized hanger with your wedding date or name is a sweet touch, or go for something classic like a sleek wooden or gold metal hanger. You don’t want to see your dream dress on a plastic one, trust me!
#2 – The Scene Shot
Your wedding gown isn’t just a dress; it’s a reflection of the style and mood of your entire day. Whether you’re having a romantic garden wedding, a beachside celebration, or a formal ballroom affair, your dress should be photographed in a way that mirrors the vibe of your wedding.
Why it’s a must-have: This shot connects the dress to the setting of your wedding, creating a visual story. It’s like placing the gown in the world it was meant to be worn in—whether that’s hanging from a tree in a blooming garden or draped over a vintage chair in a rustic barn.
Photographer tip: Think outside the box with this one. Instead of just hanging the dress in the bridal suite, take it out into the environment. Is there a gorgeous tree outside where the light hits just right? Or maybe there’s a rustic barn door that complements the gown’s lace detailing? By incorporating the venue into the shot, you’re creating a sense of place and making the dress a part of the overall wedding aesthetic. Don’t forget to play with light—morning sun or the soft glow of late afternoon can make this shot feel like a dream.
Bride tip: Trust your photographer’s vision here! It might feel a little odd at first to see your dress hanging from a tree branch, but the results will be worth it. And again, make sure your hanger looks as good as the setting!
Wedding Gown Photo #3 – The Details
Your wedding gown is a work of art, and every little detail—from the intricate lace to the delicate beading—deserves to be captured up close. This shot is all about those tiny design elements that made you fall in love with the dress in the first place.
Why it’s a must-have: The close-up detail shots are where the true craftsmanship of the gown shines. This is the time to appreciate the handiwork that makes your dress one of a kind. Whether it’s the beading on the bodice, the lace hem, or the row of delicate buttons down the back, these shots will help you remember every thoughtful detail.
Photographer tip: This is where your macro lens is going to be your best friend. Get up close and personal with the details that make this gown special. Focus on textures—the lace, the satin, the embellishments. Use soft, natural light to bring out the depth and dimension in the fabric. If there are special elements, like a belt, a brooch, or embroidery, make sure to capture those. You can also add in some of the bride’s accessories, like her shoes or veil, to create a beautiful still-life image.
Bride tip: Let your photographer know which details are most important to you. Maybe it’s the lace on the sleeves or the sparkling beading on the bodice—whatever it is, make sure they capture it. These close-up shots will be some of the most artistic and memorable ones in your album.
Wedding Gown Shot #4 – The Grand Statement
This shot is all about making a statement. The dress is the star of the show, and it’s time to give it the spotlight it deserves with a dramatic backdrop. Whether you’re indoors or out, this is the shot that says, “Here’s the gown, in all its glory.”
Why it’s a must-have: It’s bold, it’s elegant, and it gives the gown a sense of grandeur. This is the shot that you’ll probably want to print and frame, because it’s pure drama and elegance.
Photographer tip: Look for architectural elements that can add drama to the dress—an arched doorway, a sweeping staircase, or a grand window. Position the gown in a way that allows it to flow naturally, showing off the train and any intricate detailing. I like to use a wide-angle lens for this shot to really emphasize the grandeur of both the dress and the setting. And don’t forget, symmetry can be your friend here—center the dress in the shot to create a striking, balanced composition.
Bride tip: If there’s a part of your venue that you absolutely love—maybe it’s a stunning staircase or a beautiful garden—let your photographer know! Your dress will look even more stunning against a backdrop that holds meaning for you.
Shot #5 – The Soft & Romantic
This one is for the romantics at heart. Instead of the dress hanging or standing, this shot captures the gown draped over something soft and inviting, like a vintage chair, a bed, or even gracefully laid out on the floor. It’s all about those dreamy, artistic vibes.
Why it’s a must-have: The draped shot gives the gown a soft, romantic feel, almost like it’s resting before its big moment. It’s a more relaxed and intimate way to capture the dress, and it often feels more organic and timeless.
Photographer tip: Find a beautiful spot with soft lighting and drape the dress in a way that shows off its structure and fabric. You want it to feel natural and effortless, so avoid anything that looks too posed or stiff. This shot is perfect for capturing the train flowing naturally or the delicate layers of fabric. Play with light and shadow to add depth to the image, and experiment with different angles to find the most flattering look for these wedding gown photos.
Bride tip: If your venue has a cozy spot, like a velvet chair or a bed with soft linens, suggest it for your wedding gown photos! The key is to make sure the fabric of your dress looks comfortable and graceful, like it’s lounging before it gets its time to shine.
Your wedding gown is a showstopper all on its own, and these five shots will help capture every bit of its magic. From the grand statement shots to the intimate close-ups, each photo will tell the story of your dress before it becomes part of your wedding day memories.
So photographers, make sure to give the gown its time in the spotlight. And brides, prepare to swoon over how gorgeous your dress looks all on its own. After all, it’s not just a dress—it’s a part of your love story!
P.S. Need some wedding gown photos inspiration, you’re in the right place! Come check out my instagram for the latest, but you can also scroll through the UVB Bridal Gown Gallery below!
P.S. Looking for your wedding photographer? I’m throwing my hat in the ring! Click the image below and let’s start chatting!
