Creating a shot list and sharing a checklist of must-have photos with your photographer is a win-win: it enables you to be certain that you’ll get the specific pictures you’ve imagined, and it makes your photographer’s job a little easier because they have pre-planned instructions to work with.
Creating an impeccable wedding photo shot list ensures that no precious moment is missed. Here’s a comprehensive guide to capturing every essential shot, from pre-ceremony to the grand exit.
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1. Pre-Ceremony Shots
Bridal & Groom Prep
✅ Bride getting hair & makeup done
✅ Close-ups of wedding attire (dress, shoes, jewelry, veil)
✅ Candid moments with bridesmaids
✅ Groom adjusting tie/cufflinks, putting on watch
✅ Best man & groomsmen helping the groom
Details & Accessories
✅ Wedding rings (on a flat lay with flowers or vows)
✅ Invitations & wedding stationery
✅ Bridal bouquet & groom’s boutonniere
✅ Bride’s dress hanging before she wears it
First Look (If Planned)
✅ Groom’s reaction when he sees the bride
✅ Bride walking towards the groom
✅ Emotional embrace & candid laughter
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2. Ceremony Shots
Venue & Decor
✅ Wide-angle shots of the venue (interior & exterior)
✅ Aisle decor, floral arrangements, seating setup
✅ Wedding arch or mandap
Key Moments
✅ Guests arriving & being seated
✅ Groom waiting at the altar
✅ Bride walking down the aisle (with emotions of family & groom)
✅ Exchange of vows & rings
✅ The first kiss as a married couple
✅ Reactions of parents & close family
Candid Reactions
✅ Bridesmaids & groomsmen during the ceremony
✅ Kids (flower girl/ring bearer) interacting or being playful
✅ Guests wiping away tears or smiling
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3. Post-Ceremony Portraits
Couple Portraits
✅ Classic posed shots of the couple
✅ Romantic close-ups & candid moments
✅ Bride’s veil floating or groom lifting the bride
✅ Walking hand-in-hand in a scenic setting
✅ Forehead kisses & whispering moments
Family & Group Portraits
✅ Bride & groom with parents
✅ Couple with both sets of parents
✅ Entire wedding party (bridesmaids, groomsmen, couple)
✅ Generations photo (grandparents, parents, couple)
✅ Fun/candid poses with the wedding party
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4. Reception Shots
Venue & Details
✅ Wide-angle shot of the reception setup
✅ Table settings, floral centerpieces, wedding cake
✅ Close-up of guest place cards & menu
Reception Highlights
✅ Couple’s grand entrance
✅ First dance as newlyweds
✅ Toasts & speeches (candid reactions)
✅ Cake cutting & feeding each other
✅ Fun moments on the dance floor
Candid Guest Moments
✅ Laughter & clinking glasses
✅ Kids playing & enjoying the party
✅ Guests taking selfies or dancing
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5. Special & Final Shots
✅ Sparkler or grand exit shot
✅ A stolen moment away from the crowd (under fairy lights or a sunset)
✅ Newlyweds looking back at the camera before leaving
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Final Tip:
A well-organized shot list helps the photographer capture all crucial moments smoothly. Share this list with your photographer beforehand to align expectations and ensure no special moment is missed!
