Planning your wedding is no small feat, and naturally, you want to capture every special moment. While you trust your photographer to get the job done, having a clear shot list is a smart way to ensure that the photos you’ve envisioned are taken. By sharing a checklist of must-have photos with your photographer, you not only ensure that your top moments are captured, but you also help streamline their workflow. It’s a win-win! Plus, it gives both you and your photographer peace of mind, knowing that the day will be beautifully documented.
Why You Should Create a Wedding Photo Shot List
“Family photos can be a bit tricky. I always recommend bringing a list of different family combinations you'd like to capture. Start with a large group shot, and then break it down into smaller groups using each side of the family.”
Having a shot list is essential for ensuring your photographer knows exactly what you’re envisioning. It also gives them the flexibility to get creative and capture the candid, spontaneous moments of your day. After all, while you’ll get plenty of shots throughout the day, there are likely a few key photos you’ve dreamed of — and those need to be communicated clearly.
If you’re working with a Nottingham wedding photographer, like the talented team at Jordans Photography, they’ll know how to balance the must-have shots with the unexpected moments that will make your wedding day truly unforgettable.
Tips for Using Your Wedding Photo Shot List
Here’s how to get the most out of your shot list:
Select Your Must-Have Shots: Choose about half a dozen specific photos that you absolutely don’t want to miss, and share these with your photographer ahead of time. This allows them to plan accordingly while still leaving room for creativity as the day unfolds.
Be Prepared for the Unexpected: While the shot list is helpful, remember that weddings often have surprises. Trust your photographer’s expertise, and let them take advantage of the unique moments that come up.
Help Your Photographer with Details: “A good photographer will pay attention to the details — like stray hairs or wilting flowers — but it’s always a good idea to have someone in the wedding party on standby with an emergency kit. A mirror, lipstick, scissors, and thread can come in handy for last-minute fixes.”
Communicate with Your Guests: On your big day, you might get a little weary of being photographed — and that’s perfectly normal! But keep in mind that your photographer has your best interests at heart. If your photographer needs a few more moments for certain shots, ask your guests for patience; they’ll understand.
“Listen to your photographer. They’ll know if the light is too bright or if someone needs to move out of the background. It’s all part of making sure you look your best!
What to Include in Your Wedding Photo Shot List
To make things easier, we’ve put together an example shot list below. Use this as a starting point and customize it based on your preferences.
Details
Invitation, program, special signs, & gifts
Wedding rings
Wedding dress, suits, and accessories (shoes, cufflinks, jewellery)
Bouquet, corsages, boutonnieres
Getting Ready
Bride(s) and bridesmaids getting their hair and makeup done
Wedding party having fun
Mother and bride/groom portraits
Father and bride/groom portraits
Family shots
Pre-Ceremony
Couple’s first look
Bride(s) and bridesmaids/flower girls
Groom(s) and groomsmen/ring bearer
Ceremony
Venue shots (ceremony site, flowers, décor)
Groom and groomsmen waiting
Guests seated and reacting
Bridal party entrance
Bride(s) walking down the aisle
Groom’s reaction
Father/mother giving the bride away
Exchanging of vows and rings
The first kiss and the moment after
Signing the marriage certificate
The recessional (couple walking back up the aisle)
Group Portraits
Couple with bridesmaids and groomsmen
Couple with the entire wedding party
Bride(s) with bridesmaids/maid of honour
Groom(s) with groomsmen/best man
Couple with children, parents, siblings, and close family members
Reception
Reception venue and décor (table settings, centrepieces, etc.)
Wedding cake shots
Grand entrance
Toasts and speeches
Cake cutting
First Dance
Father/daughter and mother/son dances
Couple mingling with guests
Guests dancing and enjoying the party
Musicians, DJ, or performers
Grand exit
Flexibility Is Key
It’s important to remember that your shot list is just a guideline. Every wedding day is unique, and you might end up with more photos than you expected. And that’s part of what makes your wedding day so special!
“Nominate someone in the wedding party to help your photographer by gathering the right people for each shot. A family member or close friend can help wrangle guests for group photos and make sure no one gets left out.
Something to think about
Ultimately, the key to a successful wedding photo shot list is communication. Be clear about the moments that matter most to you, trust your photographer’s expertise, and enjoy your day! When the time comes to look back on your wedding photos, you’ll be glad you took the time to capture the details, the big moments, and the candid memories that tell your story.
If you're planning a wedding in Nottingham and looking for a skilled Nottingham wedding photographer, make sure to reach out to Jordans Photography. With their experience and dedication, they will help you capture every beautiful detail of your special day.
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