10 Tips to Make Your First Dance Look Amazing in Photos & Video (From a Pro)
Guest Author: Jacob MedlerYour first dance is one of the most cherished moments of your wedding day. As a wedding photographer in Windsor, I know firsthand the importance of this beautiful moment. It’s a time to be fully present with your partner, surrounded by love, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. To ensure your first dance looks as stunning in your wedding photos and video as it feels in the moment, here are 10 essential tips to keep in mind:
1. Stay Centered on the Dance Floor
It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and drift toward the edges of the dance floor, but staying centered ensures your photographer and videographer can capture you beautifully without distractions. If you’re taking dance lessons, ask your instructor for tips on staying in place!
2. Communicate with Your Photographer About Lighting
Lighting plays a huge role in how your photos turn out. If your photographer is using external flashes or lights, let them know where you’ll be dancing the most so they can plan accordingly. If your photographer doesn’t have extra lighting, ask your DJ if they provide dance floor lighting to enhance the atmosphere.
3. Consider a "Dancing on Clouds" Effect
If your DJ offers a dry ice effect, consider adding it to your first dance. This dreamy fog effect can take your photos to the next level, making it look like you’re floating on air while adding a magical, cinematic feel to your video.
4. Relax Your Hands for a Natural Look
Many couples unknowingly grip each other too tightly or hold stiff, awkward hand positions. Keep your hands relaxed, and if you’re holding your partner’s hand, let it rest naturally instead of squeezing or overextending your fingers. A gentle, natural hold looks best in photos and video.
5. Smile and Be Present
It sounds simple, but remembering to smile makes a huge difference in how your photos turn out. Let yourself feel the emotions of the moment, whether it’s pure joy, love, or nostalgia. You only get one first dance—be present in it.
6. Share Your Dance Moves in Advance
If you’re planning any dips, twirls, or fancy spins, let your photographer and videographer know ahead of time. Positioning is key, and if they’re in the wrong spot, that picture-perfect dip could be missed or captured from the wrong angle.
7. Think About Your Guest Placement
Your guests will naturally be in the background of your first dance photos. The people seated around the dance floor will be the most visible, so consider placing your closest family and friends in those seats to make your images feel even more special.
8. Choose a Dress-Friendly Dance Style
If your wedding dress is long, flowy, or has a big train, make sure your dance moves complement it! A dramatic spin might look stunning, but if your dress is too restrictive, it could make movement difficult. Doing a practice run in your dress can help you feel more comfortable on the big day.
9. Make Eye Contact with Your Partner
The best photos and videos come from those raw, genuine emotions. Looking into your partner’s eyes instead of down at your feet creates a more romantic and connected feel in your images.
10. Take It All In
Above all else, remember to take a deep breath and enjoy it. This is your moment. The lights, the music, the love in the room—it’s all for you. Being present will not only make the experience more meaningful but also ensure that your joy and love shine through in every photo and video.
Why Your Photographer Matters
Your first dance and your entire wedding day deserves to be captured beautifully. A skilled photographer and videographer don’t just document moments; they tell the full story of your day in a way that lets you relive the emotions for years to come.
Tips for Choosing the Right Photographer
Look Beyond the Highlights – A photographer’s Instagram or website will show their best shots, but to truly understand their work, ask to see a full wedding gallery. This will give you a better idea of how they capture an entire day, from getting ready to the dance floor. If you reach out to me, I’d be happy to send you one!
Make Sure You Click – Your photographer will be with you the entire day, so it’s important to choose someone you genuinely enjoy being around. I bring a laid-back, fun energy to weddings, cracking jokes and making sure couples feel comfortable in front of the camera. When you connect with your photographer’s personality, your photos will feel more natural and real.
Think About the Future – When you look back at your wedding photos 10 or 20 years from now, what moments and people will matter most? Do you want lots of candid moments with family and friends, or timeless portraits? I specialize in capturing authentic, candid moments that bring your wedding story to life.
Bonus Tip: Finding the Right Videographer
If you're also having a videographer, take the time to watch wedding films. A great wedding film should make you feel something. Pay attention to the music, the emotions, and how much real audio from the day is included. One of the biggest advantages of video over photography is being able to hear the vows, speeches, and laughter that made your day special.
Let’s Capture Your Story
Your wedding day is filled with once-in-a-lifetime moments, and I’d love to help you preserve them. If you’re looking for a photographer who captures genuine, candid moments and brings a fun, relaxed energy to your day, let’s chat! Reach out to me over at Jacob Medler Photography. I’d love to hear more about your wedding and help make sure your memories are beautifully captured.