My Favorite Moments of a Wedding Day

Every wedding day has its own rhythm—the quiet anticipation, the joyful chaos, the soft exhale when the sun starts to dip below the horizon. After years of photographing weddings, there are two parts of the day I find myself drawn to again and again: getting ready and sunset portraits. These moments couldn’t be more different, yet together they tell such a complete story.



The Beauty of Getting Ready

The getting ready portion of the day is where the story truly begins. It’s slower, more intimate, and filled with genuine emotion. There’s a calm excitement in the air—music playing softly, final touches being made, and the occasional deep breath as everything starts to feel real.

This is when some of the most meaningful moments unfold:

  • A parent quietly taking it all in
  • Laughter with bridesmaids or groomsmen
  • A dress being buttoned, cufflinks snapped into place, or a veil gently adjusted
  • Those candid, in-between moments that often go unnoticed

I love photographing this part of the day because it feels honest and unposed. It’s where nerves, joy, and anticipation coexist—and those emotions translate beautifully into photographs that feel timeless and personal.



Why Sunset Photos Are Always Worth It

If getting ready is about anticipation, sunset portraits are about presence.

By the time golden hour arrives, the day has settled. The ceremony is over, the timeline pressure eases, and couples finally get a few quiet minutes together. The light softens, the colors warm, and everything feels a little more cinematic.

Sunset photos are some of my favorites because:

  • The light is flattering, natural, and romantic
  • Couples are more relaxed and fully in the moment
  • The images feel effortless, editorial, and emotional
  • It’s often the only time all day where couples can slow down together

Even just 5–10 minutes can make a huge difference, creating images that feel both intimate and elevated.



Two Moments That Complete the Story

What I love most about these two parts of the wedding day is how they balance each other. Getting ready captures the beginning—the nerves, the excitement, the quiet moments before everything changes. Sunset portraits capture the exhale—the joy, the connection, and the feeling of we did it.

When couples look back at their galleries years from now, these moments tend to hold the most emotional weight. They’re not just beautiful—they’re meaningful.

If you’re planning your wedding, I always encourage you to build in time for both. You won’t regret having space for the moments that matter most.

—Nichole Storey

Black and white photo of wedding preparations showing bridal gowns and dresses hanging against exposed brick walls.
Close-up view of white lace corset detailing on a wedding dress being fastened.
A wedding dress being laced up from behind, showing intricate lace details and a delicate corset back.
Elegant bridal preparation scene with white lace dress details reflected in a mirror against brick wall.
A bride in a white tulle wedding gown stands by a brick wall with mirrors in a getting ready room.
A series of black and white photos showing someone applying makeup in a mirror reflection.
A series of mirror reflections show someone in a white lace wedding dress getting ready and applying makeup.
A beautiful wedding dress with delicate lace details and off-shoulder design hangs in a rustic brick-walled room.
A tender moment during wedding preparations in a rustic brick-walled room.
Heart-shaped white buttercream cake with ruffled decorative piping and black text writing displayed on wooden stand.
Couple dancing together on a rooftop at sunset with golden light illuminating their silhouettes.
A romantic sunset rooftop wedding moment with a flowing veil catching the golden light.
Ethereal white fabric billows softly against a pale blue sky during golden hour creating a dreamy atmosphere.
A romantic black and white wedding portrait with flowing veil and elegant attire.