How to Get Great First Dance Photos

Of each of the joyous moments that occur on your wedding day, taking to the dance floor with your new spouse is likely to be one of the most exciting. Although, if you’re the type to shy away from the spotlight, this experience can be nerve-wracking, too – particularly as it comes with the added pressure of ensuring that your moves are dazzling enough to be captured on camera.

Of course, there is undoubtedly nothing to worry about when it comes to having this special moment photographed. Alongside trusting your professional photographer to do their job, there are a few actions you can take in order to make sure that the experience runs smoothly.

Choose the right song

It’s hard to get great candid shots if you don’t feel completely comfortable, so you’ll want to do everything you can to make sure that your first dance feels as natural and enjoyable as possible. While there are lots of details you’ll need to give your attention to (such as the space and lighting options available to you), your choice of song can go a long way in allowing you to feel good and truly be yourself in this moment.

It’s best to choose a song that means something to the both of you as a couple; a song that you’ve bonded over and that will make for some great memories of your special day. This way, you’re guaranteed to find that relaxed, happy energy that you exude translates to your photos. 

You’ll also want to think about the kind of images you’d like to have of your first dance. If you’re after romantic photos that move you, you may want to choose a slow ballad, while if you want your images to capture a vibrant, lively dance floor, you may want to choose a song that’s more upbeat.

Involve your guests

The only thing better than sharing this meaningful moment with your new spouse is also experiencing it alongside the friends and family who mean so much to you. As well as adding to the fun, getting your guests up and dancing will allow your photographer the opportunity to get some great action shots.

Of course, this day is entirely yours, and having your first dance surrounded by your guests doesn’t have to mean that the attention is taken off of you and your partner. By taking dance lessons prior to your wedding day, you can wow each and every one of your attendees when you take to the floor – plus, their surprised faces are likely to make for some humorous photos.

Meet with your photographer

While you’re likely to have chosen your photographer because you enjoy their style and way of working, they’ll never know exactly what it is you want from your photos unless you communicate it to them.

Naturally, a professional photographer will come equipped with plenty of creative ideas and techniques that’ll make your photos look stunning. Despite this, there may be certain angles that you think you’d like best, or a particular vision for your images that you’d like to achieve. By setting up a meeting with your photographer prior to your wedding day, you can make sure that you’re both on the same page when it comes to getting great photos of this intimate moment.

Have fun with it

If you know how you’d like your first dance photos to turn out, that’s great – but if not, there’s no need to worry. As long as you allow yourself to let loose and have fun with your partner, and keep a smile on your face, you’re guaranteed to be left with truly beautiful photos worth treasuring.

Christina + Luis Step Into The Limelight | Tampa Marriott Water Street | Tampa Bay, FL

From our beautiful bride and groom:

Christina had been ballroom dancing with Arthur Murray Clearwater for two years before her teachers convinced her to try Latin dancing. It was much different from the smooth dancing she was used to but finally decided to give it a try. On the other hand, Luis, who is a natural Latin dancer, had not been out salsa dancing in quite some time until the night he met Christina. They were the first two people on the dance floor and the last people off the dance floor. Christina and Luis have been dancing ever since. They have taken many dance lessons together and continue to enjoy their time dancing anywhere and everywhere. They have taken Argentine tango lessons, Foxtrot lessons, and even Swing dancing lessons. Music and dancing brought Christina and Luis together and it is something they will continue to cherish doing together for as long as they can!

The wedding day…

The day was finally here and both Christina and Luis began their day at Tampa Marriott Street. This beautiful venue would host their guest during the cocktail-ceremony and reception. As soon as both bride and groom were ready, it was time to see each other for the first time that day. They decided to see each other before the ceremony just to get the jitters out of the way - they were so happy seeing each other!

The ceremony was unique since the couple did not want it to be to routine-like and wanted it to be short and sweet and during cocktail hour. They had no chairs, and no bridal party. It would be just them, their little ones, and family gathered around. It was touching to see how happy their little one’s were once Christina and Luis were pronounced husband and wife. Reception time came around and Christina and Luis opened up the dance floor with a choreographed dance as their first dance! It was truly a happy and lively group which made the night feel just right. 

Congratulations to the new Mr. and Mrs!

Lead Photographer | Carlos Rello
Associate Photographer | Alexa Rodriguez

Band | DeLeon Entertainment
Cake | The Artistic Whisk
Ceremony Site | Tampa Marriott Water Street
Florist | Apple Blossoms Floral Designs
Hair Stylist | Adore Bridal
Invitations | Minted
Make-up Artist | Adore Bridal
Reception Venue | Tampa Marriott Water Street
Wedding Gown | CC's Bridal Boutique

Jackie + Matt Step Into The Limelight | The Westin Tampa Bay | Tampa, FL

Jackie & Matt met in 2012 at a work Christmas Party (oh and Christmas is so close!).

She loves his big heart and loyalty to his friends and family… she also loves how intelligent Matt is.

Matt loves her compassion towards others and how she prioritizes family oh and she can cook! Jackie is also very resourceful when it comes to crafts (how fun is that?!)

They enjoy spending time with family, eating ice cream (yum!), traveling and hiking.

Jackie & Matt’s wedding truly was very laid back yet super fun! We loved their contemporary decor with a wood circle arch, glass welcome sign and the ever so classic blush tones in the flowers.

One of the sweetest moments during the Ceremony was their Sand Ceremony… they brought sand from their home towns Michigan & South Carolina and poured them together in a very meaningful moment after saying their vows to each other ❤

They danced the night away and enjoyed many sweet moments with family & friends.

As for us… we just adored being a part of Jackie & Matt’s love story. 

Lead Photographer | Dafne Spencer
Associate Photographer | Kara Lerchenfeld
Intern | Tara Zimmerman

Bridesmaid Dresses | AZAZIE
Caterer | The Westin Tampa Bay
Ceremony + Reception | The Westin Tampa Bay
DJ | Grant Hemond and Associates, Inc. | Ben
Florist | Petals Presents and Parties
Hair + Makeup | Ana Molinari 
Invitations | Etsy
Wedding Gown | Formally Yours