How to Use a Vintage Car in Your Wedding Photos (2026 Guide)
WEDDING & EVENT INSPIRATION
Wedding photography is no longer just about documenting the day — it’s about capturing a feeling, a moment in motion, a story couples can relive for decades. As we head into the 2026 wedding season, one trend continues to grow across Northern California: incorporating a vintage car to transform wedding photos into something cinematic, romantic, and iconic.
Whether it’s for your grand exit, bridal portraits, or a styled vignette at your venue, a classic car instantly elevates your imagery. Here’s how to use one beautifully, thoughtfully, and seamlessly.
The Romantic Getaway Car Moment
Best paired with: 1958 MG MGA Roadster
Where it shines: Vineyards, gardens, historic venues
Nothing captures the energy of a wedding day quite like the getaway moment — the cheers, the sparkler tunnel, the newlyweds slipping into a timeless convertible as if entering their next chapter.
The MGA’s open-top silhouette creates a perfectly clear, emotional shot: the bride’s veil catching the breeze, the groom helping her into the seat, and the couple sharing a private moment before driving off.
Pro tips:
Time this right after golden hour for soft, warm light
Add a floral garland or custom “Just Married” sign
Keep the car positioned at a ¾ angle for depth
If your photographer shoots film, this look becomes even more nostalgic.
Bridal & Couple Portraits With a Classic Car
Best paired with: 1974 Alfa Romeo GTV
Where it shines: Urban venues, art museums, estates
Editorial-style wedding photos are rising sharply in 2026, and nothing complements that mood better than a sculptural European coupe. The Alfa Romeo GTV adds sophistication and contrast — especially for modern venues like the Crocker Art Museum or upscale downtown rooftops.
Poses that always work:
Bride seated inside, groom leaning at the window
Groom in the driver’s seat with bride framed in the open door
Bride walking toward the car with the train flowing behind her
Couple sitting together on the hood (only allowed when arranged by us with protective covers)
The vehicle becomes both a prop and a setting.
The Editorial Flat-Lay or Detail Shot
Best paired with: Any vehicle in your fleet
Where it shines: On-site bridal suites, vineyard patios, hotel courtyards
Many couples overlook this, but vintage cars create incredible flat-lay opportunities. Place your invitation suite, perfume bottle, boutonnière, rings, or vow books against the leather seat or polished dashboard.
The chrome, textures, and color tones bring depth that’s impossible to replicate indoors.
Pro tips:
Use the seats as the backdrop for detail shots
Place florals in or around the car for layered visuals
Shoot close-up chrome reflections for texture
These shots end up in albums, Pinterest boards, and featured galleries.
Wedding Party Photos — Elevated in an Instant
Best paired with: 1967 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ45
Where it shines: Ranches, barns, vineyards, outdoor venues
Wedding party photos can feel repetitive, but adding a vintage truck changes everything. The FJ45 is one of the most fun vehicles to style with your group — it’s rugged, charismatic, and incredibly photogenic.
Ideas that work beautifully:
Bridesmaids gathered around the truck bed
Groomsmen leaning against the sides
A “rolling shot” of the truck slowly approaching (driver included via Sepia Motors)
Couples posed on each side for symmetrical compositions
The images feel youthful, confident, and full of personality.
Ceremony or Reception Display Car
Best paired with: Any vehicle
Where it shines: Estate entrances, vineyard lawns, barn venues, outdoor receptions
A vintage car isn’t just for portraits — it can become a focal design element at your venue.
Use it as:
A champagne display station
A guest book moment (books placed on the seats)
A photo backdrop for guests
A vignette with florals, candles, and signage
Brides increasingly want an immersive experience for guests, and a vintage car becomes instant décor that feels intentional and premium.
For inspiration, explore design-forward venues like:
The right setting paired with the right car creates unforgettable ambience.
First Look or Private Vows With the Car as the Setting
Best paired with: 1958 MG MGA Roadster or Alfa Romeo GTV
Where it shines: Quiet courtyards, gardens, winery estates
A vintage car creates a small world within the chaos of the wedding day. Many couples use it as a private nook for their first look or personal vow exchange.
Why it works:
Clean framing for emotional focus
A natural environment for movement (opening the door, walking toward each other)
A place to breathe, sit, and connect
The imagery feels candid, intimate, and cinematic.
Choosing the Right Vintage Car for Your Wedding Photography
💍 1958 MG MGA Roadster
Romance, softness, classic elegance. Perfect for gardens, estates, and historic venues.
🇮🇹 1974 Alfa Romeo GTV
Sophisticated, sculptural, and stylish. Made for editorial wedding photos and modern venues.
🏜 1967 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ45
Rugged, charming, and full of character. Ideal for ranch, barn, or outdoor weddings.
Explore all wedding-ready classics here:
Tips for Working With a Vintage Car on Your Wedding Day
Coordinate with your photographer ahead of time. Share the vehicle style, color, and planned placement.
Schedule at least 2 hours for portraits with the car. Especially during golden hour.
Consider décor add-ons. Florals, ribbons, custom plates — we can assist with coordination.
Allow extra time for the car to be staged. We handle positioning so your photographer can shoot immediately.
Use the car early and late in the day. Morning prep portraits + golden hour portraits = a perfect visual arc.
Ready to Book Your 2026 Engagement Photoshoot?
Sepia Motors curates vintage vehicles designed for photography, events, and unforgettable moments. We partner with couples, planners, and photographers to ensure every detail feels elevated and effortless.
👉 Explore the Fleet
👉 Book Your Photoshoot
👉 Contact Us
Your engagement deserves to feel iconic — we’re here to make sure it does.
