How Great Are These Wedding Photos?!

“Being a wedding photographer is like reading a really good book every weekend,” said photographer Jess Buckley, whose work is above. “I’m invited into a joyful little universe, and I get completely sucked in.” Below, Jess and four other photographers tell the stories behind some incredible shots…

“This couple hosted a big backyard reception at their home. I was standing inside with the bride and her best friend, when the bride looked out the window and said, ‘You’ve got to be kidding!’ Then she took off running out the back door. The bride’s uncle had just arrived with his great dane, Winslow. It was the sweetest, funniest moment as the bride laughingly scolded him for bringing a large slobbery dog to her wedding. Meanwhile, the dog drooled, happily unaware.” — Jess Buckley

“Natalie and David had been together for a long time, and there was a joyous feeling of ‘Finally!’ from the couple and everyone in attendance.” — Sarah Bode-Clark

“Everyone was cheering after the couple’s first kiss, and then a gust of cool November air made the veil flutter, as if it had been paid to be there. You can see their pure happiness of officially being married. That’s always one of my favorite moments at a wedding.” — Målin Hillemann

“While we were taking family photos, the groom asked to get one alone with his grandmother. I love this photo because I didn’t direct it; that’s just how they were interacting. I find that the in-between moments tend to hold the most meaning and beauty. Her cheek kiss and his laugh are just so warm. And I love that he is crouched down to his grandmother’s level and that they’re holding hands.” — Sarah Bode-Clark

“The bride’s father was very stoic and quiet and wore sunglasses for most of the day. But right after the ceremony, he took off his sunglasses and really let himself lean into his feelings.” — Målin Hillemann

“This photo was taken right outside the iconic doors at the Manhattan City Clerk’s office. Walking through these doors is the City Hall equivalent of heading back down the aisle at a large wedding. Many couples tell me that out of their whole wedding day, it’s the moment they’re most looking forward to.” — Sylvie Rosokoff (Ed. note: More City Hall weddings here.)

“As soon as they kissed after saying ‘I do,’ a child in the aisle started wailing. I think he was just startled by all the commotion!” — Diana Galay

If you’re married, did you have a particular funny/sweet/chaotic moment caught on camera? We’d love to hear.

P.S. More about weddings, including an elopement to the Alps (!!), a twist on a first look, a bakery proposal story, and how would you make your wedding feel true to you?