In wedding photography, the small details — like the jewelry, bowtie, and flowers — are important to capture. They complete the story of the wedding day and document memories for the wedding couple. One often overlooked detail is the bride’s and groom’s shoes. On the wedding day, they are more than just footwear; they’re a reflection of personal style, the journey ahead, and cherished memories of the special day. This article will provide you with creative inspiration and tips to capture the beauty and essence of wedding shoes in your photography.
(All image are provided by the photographers at Wedding Maps)
Consider a Top-Down Angle
A bird’s-eye view can give a unique perspective on the wedding shoes, emphasizing their design and details. This angle lets you highlight writing on the soles of the shoes or the brand of designer shoes. See examples below.
Photo by Green Apple Weddings (Website)
Photo by Sean Thurston (Website)
Photograph with the Wedding Ring
Consider styling the shoes with other important elements from the wedding day, such as the wedding rings. This pairing can symbolize the coming together of two lives. The symmetry of the shoes and the rings pair together nicely for balanced image.
Photo by 1836 Photographie (Website) at The Preserve at Canyon Lake in Canyon Lake, Texas
Image by PMC Photography (Website) at Brick 808 in San Diego, California
Photo by Courtland Photography (Website) at Rancho Murieta Country Club in Rancho Murieta, CA
Place Shoes on a Ledge or Other Location
Elevate the shoes or place them against a unique backdrop. This can add depth and context to the image. If possible, incorporate interesting composition techniques, such as leading lines, negative space, or perfect symmetry.
Photo by BridgetQ Photography (Website) at The Ocean House in Westerly, Rhode Island
Blend the Shoes with a Matching Theme or Environment
Consider photographing the shoes in a setting that complements its style, or the wedding theme, enhancing the overall narrative. Think about the overall colors, tones, and materials.
Photo by Francis Sylvest (Website) at Telluride in Colorado
Use Light and Shadows to Add Interest
Dramatic lighting can create intriguing patterns and depth. Try playing around with the shadows caused by the window blinds to create interesting shapes and light.
Photo by Party of Two (Website) Jess and Kim at Twickenham House in West Jefferson, NC
Photo by Danielle Williams (Website) at Gathering at the Farm in Ohio US
Find Patterns to Use as Backgrounds
Whether it’s the intricate details of a wedding gown or repeating patterns that you find in nature, incorporating patterns can create interest in your wedding shoe photography.
Photo by Picturist Photography (Website)
Try Photographing in a Window as a Silhouette
A window can act as a frame, showcasing the shoes as delicate silhouettes. This is an interesting technique that can be found in almost any hotel or bride prep room.
Photo by SMJ Photography (Website) at Cork Factory Hotel in Lancaster, PA
Experiment with Creative Lighting
Utilize off-camera flashes, LED lights, or even existing hotel lights to add a whimsical touch, highlight the shoes, or create a point of focus in the image.
Photo by Lets Make a Memory (Website) at The Angeleno Hotel in Los Angeles, CA
Use Leading Lines
Draw the viewer’s attention directly to the shoes using architectural lines, pathways, or other elements in your surroundings.
Photo by Jeff Tisman (Website) at Ashford Estate in Allentown NJ
Photograph the Bride Holding the Shoes
Capture a candid moment of the bride admiring her chosen footwear. These wedding shoe photos can be more photojournalistic and natural than photos of the shoes alone.
Photo by Laurentiu Nica (Website) at Craiova in Dolj Romania
Photograph the Shoes on the Bride
Capture the shoes as worn by the bride, focusing on how they complement her entire look. You can capture these photos during the in-between moments of the day.
Image by Lin and Jirsa (Website)
Image by Danni Lea Photography (Website) at BRIK Venue in Fort Worth, TX
Photo by 4 Eyes Photography (Website | Wedding Maps Profile)
Photo by Sofia Camplioni (Website) at in Pelion Dmouchari Greece
Photograph the Shoes Being Put on By The Bride
If you prefer to keep your wedding shoe pictures natural and candid, consider capturing the wedding shoes as they are being put on. This intimate moment can reflect the anticipation and excitement leading up to the ceremony.
Photo by Roc Focus (Website) at House in Rochester, NY in Rochester, NY
Image by Ladman Studios (Website) at Green Haven in Pomfret CT
Photograph the Shoes in Action (Photojournalism)
Snap candid shots of the shoes during the wedding — be it during the dance or a walk down the aisle. In the photo below, the photographer captured the wedding shoes as the bride was exiting the car.
Photo by Gaetan Dardenne (Website) at Outside city hall in Genk, Limburg Belgium
Include Shoes in Couples Poses
Integrate the shoes in romantic poses, showcasing them as part of the couple’s unified look.
Image by Andy Sidders Photography (Website) at Dodmoor House in Northamptonshire UK
Photo by Jessie and Dallin (Website) at International Peace Gardens in Salt Lake City, UT
Photo by Mattie Wezah (Website) at William and Mary College in Williamsburg, Virginia
Wedding Elopement Photography Shoes
For couples who elope, the shoes can tell a unique story reflecting the adventurous spirit of their union. These storytelling photos can be interesting because of the juxtaposition between the hiking shoes and the wedding attire.
Photo by In Love and Adventure (Website) at Alma, Colorado
Image by Larsen Photo Co (Website) at Rocky Mountain National Park in Estes Park, CO
Photo by We The Light (Website) at Breckenridge, CO in Breckenridge, CO
Highlight the Lack of Shoes (the Couple Barefoot)
Sometimes, the absence of shoes can be as impactful as their presence, symbolizing intimacy and vulnerability.
Photo by Vow of the Wild (Website)
Wedding shoes, though often understated, hold a world of stories and memories. With these tips and inspirations, you’ll be equipped to capture these tales in the most creative and beautiful ways. Remember, each shot should be a balance of technique and emotion, blending both to create the perfect memory.
