Must-Have Shots: The Wedding Photography Checklist

As the big day approaches, you likely realize there are a million small things that need attention. Even if you hired an AMAZING wedding photographer, he or she might not realize all the shots that are important to you. This list is meant to be a guideline and includes many couples’ must-have wedding shots as well as a few bonus captures you might not realize are important to you before it’s too late. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Wedding Photography Checklist

I hope this guide helps you capture all the precious moments of your wedding day!

Details

1. Invitation, program, special signs, & gifts
2. Wedding rings
3. Wedding dresses/suits
4. Outfit accessories like shoes, cuff links, or jewelry
5. Bouquet, corsages, boutonnieres

Getting Ready

1. Bride(s) and bridesmaids getting their hair and makeup done
2. Wedding party having fun
3. Mother and bride/groom portraits
4. Father and bride/groom portraits
5. Family shots

Before the Ceremony

1. Couple alone for first look
2. Bride(s) and bridesmaids/flower girls
3. Groom(s) and groomsmen/ring bearer
4. Bride alone
5. Groom alone

Ceremony

1. Venue shots including ceremony site, flowers, interior, and exterior details
2. Groom and groomsmen waiting inside venue
3. Guests
4. Bridal party entrance
5. Bride(s) walking down the aisle
6. Groom’s reaction
7. Father/mother giving bride away
8. Exchanging of vows
9. Exchanging of the rings
10. The first kiss as a married couple and the moment after
11. Signing the marriage certificate
12. The recessional (couple walking back up the aisle)
13. Confetti throwing

Group Portraits (before or after the ceremony)

1. Couple with bridesmaids/groomsmen
2. Couple with entire wedding party
3. Bride(s) with bridesmaids/maid of honor
4. Groom(s) and groomsmen/best man
5. Couple with any children
6. Couple with each set of parents
7. Couple with both sets of parents
8. Couple with siblings
9. Couple with close family members

Reception

1. Details and room decor shots, including table settings, place cards, favors, centerpieces, etc.
2. Wedding cake detail shots
3. Grand entrance
4. Toasts and speeches
5. Cake cutting
6. The first dance
7. Bride(s) dancing with father / groom(s) dancing with mother
8. Couple mingling with guests
9. Guests dancing
10. Musicians, singers, DJ
11. Grand exit

Bonus Captures

1. Photos with special family members and friends
2. Funny wedding photos (check Pinterest for ideas)
3. Private moments with your significant other, away from the festivities