What Photos Should We Ask Our Wedding Photographer to Take? Do We Need a Shot List?
Planning your wedding photography can feel a bit overwhelming. There are the big moments you know you want captured, like walking down the aisle and your first kiss, but then there are all the family combinations, bridal party photos and little details.
So, do you actually need a wedding photo shot list? Yes, but it doesn't need to be complicated.
As a NZ wedding photographer, I have a rough shot list I work through for each wedding. It helps make sure the important people, combinations and moments are covered, while still leaving plenty of room for the candid photos and unexpected moments that happen throughout the day.
Do we need a wedding photo shot list?
I definitely recommend having one, particularly for family/group photos.
You don't need to tell your photographer exactly how every photo should look. That's our job. What is really helpful is knowing who you want photos with.
Before the wedding, sit down together and make a list of the people and combinations that matter to you. Include names where possible, so you're not missing anyone.
What wedding photos should we include?
Your photographer will have their own list of moments they look out for, but your wedding photo shot list might include:
Dress, shoes and other details
Getting ready/Bridal party
First look, if you're having one
Ceremony
Family photos
Couple portraits
Reception details
Speeches and reactions
First dance
Candid moments with guests
What family photos should we plan?
This is where a little preparation can save a lot of time.
Think about combinations such as:
Everyone attending
Both families together
Bride's extended family
Bride's immediate family
Groom's extended family
Groom's immediate family
Grandparents
Any other important people
If you have step-parents, blended families or close family friends you'd like included, add them too. And don't just write "bride's family". Names are incredibly helpful!
How can we make family photos run smoothly?
This is one of my biggest wedding photography tips:
Start with the biggest group and work your way down.
People are usually happy to stand around for a few photos, but once they've been released to mingle, grab a drink or catch up with someone, trying to find them again can become a bit of a mission!
Having a family member or friend who knows everyone and can help round people up is also a huge help.
What bridal party photos should we include?
I'd simply make sure your photographer knows who is in the bridal party and mention any particular combinations that are important to you.
For example:
Whole bridal party
Bride + Maid of Honour
Groom + Best Man
What photos should we take at the reception?
Once the formal photos are done, things can become much more relaxed. Your photographer will usually capture:
Reception room and table details
Your entrance
Speeches and reactions
Cake cutting
First dance
Guests chatting and celebrating
Dancing
Candid moments throughout the evening
These moments don't really need to go on a list. They're part of your photographer's job to notice.
Do we need to plan every wedding photo?
Definitely not.
In fact, I'd argue that you shouldn't.
A good wedding photo shot list makes sure the important things aren't forgotten, but some of the best photographs happen when nobody is following a plan.
The laugh you have with your bridesmaid. Your dad's reaction during the ceremony. Your grandparents chatting at the reception. Your friends absolutely losing it on the dance floor.
Those moments can't really be added to a checklist.
As a wedding photographer, my approach is to have enough structure to keep things organised, while leaving plenty of room for the day to actually feel like your wedding.
What should we give our wedding photographer before the day?
Keep it simple, along the schedule of the day, you can provide:
1. The important people Who absolutely needs to be photographed?
2. The important combinations Who do you want photos with?
3. The important moments Is there anything particularly meaningful to you that you don't want missed?
That's really it. Your photographer can take care of the rest.
And if you're planning a wedding around Hamilton, Cambridge, Raglan, Matamata, Te Awamutu or elsewhere in the Waikato, I'm always happy to help you work out what actually needs to be on your list. For more info about my approach to capturing you day, and an overview of my packages, click here.
Pictured by Lucie - Hamilton Waikato NZ Wedding Photographer
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