Planning your wedding day is exciting, but with so many details to think about, it’s easy to overlook one important aspect—your wedding photos! As a wedding photographer, I want to make sure you get the images you’ve been dreaming of. One of the best ways to ensure that happens is by creating a wedding photography shot list.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to make a shot list that guarantees you won’t miss a single moment, from must-have family portraits to those dreamy couple shots.
Why a Wedding Day Photo Shot List Matters
Your wedding day will fly by in a blur, and while a professional photographer knows how to capture the magic, a shot list helps ensure we don’t miss the specific images that matter most to you. Whether it’s a sentimental heirloom, a special pose with a loved one, or a candid reaction, a well-prepared shot list ensures every detail is documented.
How to Create Your Wedding Photography Shot List
1. Start with the Basics
Before diving into the details, list out the key moments of your wedding day that you want photographed, such as:
✅ Getting ready shots (bride & groom)
✅ First look (if doing one)
✅ Ceremony moments (walking down the aisle, vows, first kiss)
✅ Reception highlights (first dance, cake cutting, toasts)
✅ Grand exit (sparklers, confetti, vintage car send-off)
A great wedding photographer will already have these on their list, but it’s always good to clarify your priorities.
2. List Must-Have Family & Wedding Party Photos
Family and group photos take a little coordination, so planning ahead will help the process run smoothly.
Examples of family wedding portraits to include:
- Bride & Groom with both sets of parents
- Bride & Groom with siblings
- Bride & Groom with grandparents
- Bride & Groom with extended family (if desired)
For the wedding party, be sure to get:
- Bride with bridesmaids
- Groom with groomsmen
- Full wedding party group shot
- Fun and candid shots with your wedding party
💡 Pro Tip: Assign a friend or coordinator to help gather family members so portraits go quickly and efficiently!
3. Capture Special Details & Personal Touches
Your wedding details help tell the story of your day, so don’t forget to add them to your shot list. Some ideas include:
📷 Flat lay of wedding details (rings, invitation suite, shoes, veil, bouquet)
📷 Dress hanging before being worn
📷 Bridal jewelry & perfume
📷 Groom’s cufflinks, boutonniere, or watch
If you’re incorporating sentimental items—like a locket from your grandmother or a handwritten note from your fiancé—let your photographer know so they can capture those details beautifully.
4. Plan for Romantic Couple Portraits
Your couple portraits are some of the most cherished images from your wedding. Think about the vibe you want:
- Elegant & timeless – Formal poses with soft, romantic lighting
- Adventurous & fun – Playful shots, dancing or running together
- Dramatic & cinematic – Sunset silhouettes or backlit nighttime portraits
If you have a specific vision (mountain overlooks, beach waves crashing behind you, or a golden-hour glow), talk to your photographer about how to make it happen!
5. Include Candid & Emotional Moments
While posed photos are important, some of the best wedding images happen in the in-between moments:
💕 First look reactions (with partner, parents, or wedding party)
💕 Tearful or joyful expressions during vows
💕 Grandparents holding hands
💕 Laughter and hugs between friends and family
💕 Dance floor fun & spontaneous moments
These are the images that truly bring your wedding day to life!
How to Share Your Wedding Day Photo Shot List with Your Photographer
Once your shot list is ready, share it with your photographer at least one month before the wedding. This allows time to discuss logistics and ensure everything fits within the timeline.
📌 Bonus Tip: Instead of handing over a long, overwhelming list, focus on your top 10-15 most important shots. Your photographer will take care of the rest!
👉 Want to make this process even easier? Download my FREE Wedding Shot List Checklist so you can hand it off to your photographer with confidence!
📩 CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR FREE SHOT LIST!
Creating a wedding shot list is one of the best ways to ensure you get the photos you want, while still allowing your photographer to capture the magic of the day naturally. By prioritizing must-have shots, sentimental details, and candid moments, you’ll have a beautiful wedding album to cherish forever.
Are you still looking for the perfect wedding photographer to capture your big day? Let’s chat! I’d love to help you document every meaningful moment.
📅 Inquire about your wedding photography here!
