Every couple envisions their wedding day to be nothing short of a fairy tale, with every moment etched in their hearts forever. To help you relive these cherished memories, it is crucial to capture your big day in all its glory. This is where the wedding photography shot list comes in.
The wedding photo checklist serves as a comprehensive guide for your wedding photographer, ensuring that every significant moment and detail is immortalized in the form of a photograph. It is a collaboration between you and your photographer, highlighting your unique preferences.
In this article, I will help you create the ultimate wedding photography checklist, ensuring you a seamless experience and unforgettable memories.
I am RayCee the Artist, a professional portrait photographer, event photographer, and wedding photographer, and if you would like for me to be your wedding photographer and capture amazing wedding photography, please contact me at raycee@rayceeartist.com!
Pre-Wedding Preparation
Bridal Details and Accessories
The pre-ceremony period is a whirlwind of activity, brimming with nervous excitement and anticipation. As the bride prepares for her big moment, there are countless small yet significant details that deserve to be captured.
The Wedding Dress: Whether it is hanging gracefully or spread out in its full glory, the wedding dress deserves a close-up shot.
Bridal Accessories: From the veil to the shoes, every accessory forms an integral part of the bridal ensemble. Don't forget to capture details like jewelry, perfume, something borrowed, or something blue.
Bouquet: The bridal bouquet, often carefully chosen to match the wedding theme, is a must-have item on the list.
Invitation Suite: The wedding invitation, save-the-date cards, and other stationery provides a glimpse into the wedding theme and deserves a flat lay shot.
Groom's Attire and Accessories
The groom's preparation is equally important, and capturing these moments adds a balanced narrative to your wedding album.
Groom's Attire: From the suit or tuxedo to the tie or bow tie, every aspect of the groom's attire needs to be photographed.
Accessories: Don't overlook the details such as cufflinks, shoes, pocket squares, and the boutonnière.
Groom's Cologne: This often-overlooked detail is a charming addition to the photo list.
Getting Ready Photos
These candid moments of the bride and groom getting ready with their respective parties help capture the raw emotions and excitement leading up to the ceremony.
Bride and Bridesmaids: Capture the bride and her bridesmaids (bridal party) getting their hair and makeup done, sharing a toast, or simply sharing a laugh.
Groom and Groomsmen: Shots of the groom and his groomsmen getting ready, adjusting ties, and toasting to the big day are essential.
First Looks and Special Moments
The "first look" is an intimate moment between the bride and groom, often filled with raw emotion and anticipation. It's a special moment that deserves a spot on your wedding photos list.
First Look Between the Couple: This can be an intimate moment shared between the couple before the ceremony begins.
Bride's First Look with Father/Mother: A first look between the bride and her father or mother can be a touching moment, filled with emotion.
Groom's First Look with Parents: Just as moving is the first look between the groom and his parents.
The Ceremony
The wedding ceremony is the heart of your big day. From the arrival of the guests to the couple's first kiss as a married couple, every moment is priceless.
The Venue: Start with shots of the ceremony venue, both interior and exterior, including close-ups of the altar and aisle decorations.
Guests Arriving: Capture the guests as they arrive and take their seats.
Wedding Party Entrance: Document the entrance of the bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, and ring bearers.
Bride's Entrance: The bride walking down the aisle is a pivotal moment that should be captured from multiple angles, including the groom's reaction.
Vows and Ring Exchange: The exchange of vows and rings are defining moments of the ceremony that hold immense emotional value.
First Kiss: The couple's first kiss as a married couple is a momentous occasion that demands to be captured.
Signing the Marriage Certificate: This formal part of the ceremony often makes for a great photo opportunity.
Group Portraits
Group portraits are a traditional part of any wedding photo list. These images serve as keepsakes for both you and your loved ones.
Couple with Wedding Party: Take a variety of shots, including the couple with the bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, and ring bearers. (Groomsmen/bride, groomsmen/groom, entire wedding party/bride)
Couple with Parents: Don't forget to get photographs of the couple with each set of parents (mom/bride, parents/bride, parents/groom), as well as both sets together.
Couple with Siblings and Extended Family: These family photos will serve as beautiful mementos for family members. (Siblings/bride, siblings/groom)
Reception Details
The reception is where you can showcase your unique style and wedding theme. Ensure you capture the following:
Reception Venue: Before the guests arrive, capture the venue in all its glory, including exterior and interior shots.
Decorations: Detailed shots of the table settings, place cards, centerpieces, and favors are a must.
Wedding Cake: A detailed shot of the wedding cake before it's cut is an essential part of the photo list.
Reception Highlights
The wedding reception is filled with joyful and emotional moments that you'll want to remember forever.
Entrance: The couple's entrance into the reception is always a moment full of joy and celebration.
First Dance: The couple's first dance is a highlight of the reception.
Speeches and Toasts: Capture the speakers as well as the couple's reactions.
Cake Cutting: The ceremonial cake cutting is a fun tradition that should definitely be on your photo list.
Dance Floor: Don't forget to capture the energy and excitement on the dance floor!
Conclusion
A comprehensive wedding photo shot list ensures that your wedding photographer captures every significant moment of your special day. However, remember that the list is a guide, not a strict rulebook. Allow your photographer the creative freedom to capture unexpected and spontaneous moments. After all, these unplanned shots often become the most cherished memories.
Remember, your wedding is a unique event that reflects your love story. So, customize this guide to fit your preferences, and you'll have a collection of photos that truly encapsulate your unforgettable day.
I am RayCee the Artist, a professional portrait photographer, event photographer, and wedding photographer, and if you would like for me to be your wedding photographer and capture amazing wedding photography, please contact me at raycee@rayceeartist.com!