Top Wedding Photos of the Year

Once the vows are uttered and the last dance is danced, photographs are what keep the wedding alive in memory.

Celebrated each year, the International Wedding Photographer of the Year Awards spotlight exceptional talent in wedding photography, recognizing photographers who succeed in capturing emotional nuances, breathtaking scenes, and lively interactions for 2025.

This year, judges reviewed 2,500 entries from 568 photographers across 61 nations, awarding winners in various categories such as Black and White, Dance Floor, Epic Location, and I Do Crew.

Black and White Category: Armen Hambardzumian

Armen Hambardzumian captured a touching moment of a bride’s grandfather post-ceremony. His photo secured first place in the Black and White category, emphasizing the generational bonds and emotions that carry through the years.

Break the Rules: Traci Edwards

In the Break the Rules segment, Traci Edwards clinched the top spot with a photo set in the picturesque North Cascades. Her image beautifully depicts Tammy and Eric enveloped by majestic mountain peaks, creating a romantic, intimate atmosphere.

Couple Portrait and Emerging Artist: Oli Prince

Oli Prince’s photography stood out in both Couple Portrait and Emerging Artist categories. He captured a scene of a bride and groom weathering a storm in Scotland’s Cuillin Mountains, their unity highlighted under the dramatic skies as the bride's veil danced in the wind.

Dance Floor Category: Jeff Tisman

For the Dance Floor category, Jeff Tisman’s innovative approach won him accolades. He photographed the lively dance movements from a low angle, capturing the energy through the legs of a moving dancer.

Epic Location: Alessandro Biggi

Alessandro Biggi’s photo at the historic San Pietro Church, Porto Venere, Italy, won in the Epic Location category. He described a moment of ethereal splendor as sunlight burst through post-storm clouds, bathing the bride in a dreamlike aura amidst ancient columns facing the sea.

From Above: Tony Iskra

The From Above category was led by Tony Iskra's image of a private elopement in Iceland. His photo captured the grandeur of the land’s rugged beauty – black sand, cliffs, and waterfalls that perfectly matched the couple's envisioned day.

I Do Crew: Moment Picture

A heartfelt snapshot by Moment Picture of a bride sharing an intimate moment with her parents won the I Do Crew category. The moment encapsulates the poignant gesture of placing a veil over their daughter as a symbol of blessings, love, and aspirations for her future.

Lit! Category: Sammie and Micah Chaffin

Sammie and Micah Chaffin claimed victory in the Lit! category with a cinematic portrayal utilizing vintage lanterns, casting a warm glow that synchronized with the twilight blues to create a stunning visual moment.

Solo Portrait: Katy Homan

Winning the Solo Portrait award, Katy Homan's photo captured a joyous bride in mid-leap, crafting an image that isn’t just a visual record, but a celebration of the emotions the day held.

Engagement/Non-Wedding and Runner-Up: Maddie Mae

Maddie Mae’s entry, which snagged the Engagement/Non-Wedding title and was the overall Runner-Up, was taken during an engagement session in Utah. Her dedication involved an early hike to seize the perfect sunrise light at a remote sand dune cave.

Grand Winner: David Scholes

Taking the top honor of the contest, David Scholes's whimsical image of a young guest marveling at a grand wedding cake captures a fleeting childhood wonder that adds depth and narrative to any wedding portfolio.