The Shot List To Share With Your Wedding Photographer
Weddings are one of the most memorable days in a couple's life, and having a detailed shot list can ensure that every special moment is captured perfectly.
In this article, we’ve compiled a list of essential photos that couples should share with their photographer to make sure they get the pictures they want. We will guide you through the key moments and details that should be captured, from getting ready to the grand reception.
Getting Ready Photos
Bride and Bridal Party
Attire Laid Out: capture the dress, shoes, jewelry, and other accessories beautifully arranged
Hair and Makeup: document the bride and her bridal party getting their hair and makeup done
Personal Moments: the bride reading a letter from the groom or opening a gift from him
Pre-Wedding Outfits: group photos of the bride and bridesmaids in their getting-ready outfits, whether pajamas or robes
Personalized Items: close-up shots of any personalized items, such as engraved rings or monogrammed accessories
Groom and Groomsmen
Groom’s Attire: capture the groom's suit, shoes, cufflinks, and other accessories
Getting Ready: photos of the groom and groomsmen getting ready, including any fun moments with a barber if applicable.
Final Touches: document the groom and his groomsmen putting on their suit jackets and ties
First Look
Romantic Revelations
Groom’s Reaction: the moment the groom sees the bride for the first time
Couple's First Look: capture the emotions and reactions of both the bride and groom
Playful Moments: fun and candid shots with the bridesmaids and groomsmen
Detail Shots
The Little Things
Close-ups of wedding invitations, rings, and other accessories
Bouquet:a beautiful shot of the bride’s bouquet
Venue and Ceremony
Setting the Scene
Venue Exterior: capture the building's exterior
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Spaces: document these areas when they are fully set up
Reception Space: capture the reception area before guests arrive
Decor and Floral Arrangements: close-up shots of the decor and floral details
Guest Interactions: candid moments of guests arriving and interacting
Processional and Ceremony: every moment from the officiant arriving to the bride walking down the aisle, and all key moments of the ceremony as per the program
Wide Shots: capture the entire scene with wide-angle shots
Recessional: photos of the couple being introduced and exiting
Private Moments: a private moment between the couple after the ceremony
Group Photos
Family and Friends
Family Portraits:
- Couple with each set of parents
- Couple with grandparents
- Couple with each set of siblings
- Couple with the bride’s entire family
- Couple with the groom’s entire family
- Extended family group shots as desired
Couple Portraits
Romantic and Candid
Golden Hour: photos during golden hour, including silhouette shots.
Venue Locations: romantic shots at various beautiful locations around or inside the venue.
Ring Close-Ups: detailed shots of the hands with the wedding rings
Candid Moments: capture genuine and candid moments between the couple.
Reception
Celebration Highlights
Table Settings: the beautifully arranged tables and sweetheart table
Cake Table: cake table and its details
Entrances: photos of the wedding party and couple making their grand entrances
Speeches and Toasts: document the emotions during speeches and toasts
First Dance: capture the couple’s first dance
Family Traditions: family positioned for traditional activities (e.g.,cultural moments)
Outfit Changes: portrait photos of the bride and groom in any additional outfits
Bouquet Toss: capture the fun moments of the bouquet toss
Cake Cutting: document the cake cutting ceremony.
Dance Floor: action shots of guests dancing and having fun
Group Photos: photos of the couple with guests and special moments on the dance floor
Having a detailed shot list can make a significant difference in capturing all the special moments of your wedding day. By sharing this list with your photographer, you can ensure that no important detail is missed. Remember, your wedding day is a celebration of love and joy, and having these moments captured beautifully will allow you to relive the magic for years to come.