Use This Shot List to Get The Most Out of Your Wedding Photographer
(Even if it’s a Family Friend)

Couple Information

• Couple Names:
• Wedding Date:
• Venue(s):
• Primary Photographer:
• Backup Photographer:
• Important Notes (family dynamics, must-have people, etc.):

Getting Ready Photos

• Bride getting ready (hair & makeup)
• Dress hanging or laid out
• Bride putting on dress
• Jewelry, shoes, bouquet details
• Bridesmaids helping bride
• Bride portrait (finished look)
• Groom getting ready
• Groom details (tie, shoes, boutonniere)
• Groom with groomsmen
• Groom portrait

First Look (If You Choose To Do That)

• Groom waiting
• Bride approaching
• First reaction
• Couple together immediately after
• Close-up emotional moments

Ceremony Details

• Ceremony space wide shot
• Altar / arch décor
• Aisle décor
• Reserved seating signs
• Programs or signage

Ceremony Moments

• Guests arriving
• Processional
• Bride walking down aisle
• Groom reaction
• Exchange of vows
• Ring exchange
• First kiss
• Recessional
• Guest reactions

Family & Group Photos

(List everyone’s names to save time)

Couple + Immediate Family

• Couple with Bride’s Parents
• Couple with Groom’s Parents
• Couple with Both Families

Wedding Party

• Couple with Bridesmaids
• Couple with Groomsmen
• Full Wedding Party
• Fun / candid wedding party shot

Couple Portraits

• Full body portraits
• Close-up portraits
• Walking shots
• Candid laughter moments
• Golden hour photos (if timing allows)

Reception Details

• Reception space before guests enter
• Table settings
• Centerpieces
• Head table / sweetheart table
• Cake / dessert table
• Guest book
• Bar setup
• Signage

Reception Moments

• Grand entrance
• First dance
• Parent dances
• Toasts
• Cake cutting
• Bouquet toss
• Garter toss (if applicable)
• Open dancing
• Guest candids
• DJ / dance floor energy shots

Special Requests

• Specific guests to photograph:
• Cultural or religious moments:
• Surprise elements:
• Sentimental items or people:

Final Notes for Photographer

• Keep camera on silent during ceremony
• Capture candid moments whenever possible
• Focus on emotions over perfection
• If unsure—shoot it anyway

Pro Tip for DIY Weddings

Print this list or save it on your phone and assign one person to help gather family members for group photos. That alone saves tons of time and stress.

Also try to group your photos following the ceremony so that the same people that are in multiple shots stay in one place as much as possible. This will help you reduce time and excuse people as they get done. This will eliminate distractions during photo time following the ceremony before dinner, when time is limited.

For our full list of professional wedding photographers, click here