If you’re a soon-to-be-wed couple, one of the most important things on your wedding checklist is to create a wedding shot list. Creating a wedding shot list is not just a part of wedding planning, but an essential component of wedding photography. A wedding shot list helps deliver an unforgettable wedding event and a long-lasting memory of your special day. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of creating the perfect wedding shot list.
First things first, what is a wedding shot list? A wedding shot list is a comprehensive list of photos you would like to be taken at your wedding. The list includes essential group shots, candid shots of your loved ones and families, as well as detail shots of the décor and special moments throughout your wedding. Keeping your wedding shot list organized is crucial to create a smooth and seamless shoot, so be sure to organize your list either by event or by location.
Essential Pre-Wedding Shots
Before your wedding day, you’ll want to capture the special moments leading up to it. These pre-wedding photos are essential to tell the story of your wedding, and capturing these moments will help ensure your wedding day is truly memorable. The pre-wedding shots you’ll want to include in your wedding shot list are:
- Getting Ready: Including photos of the bride, groom, and their respective wedding parties getting dressed and finalizing their look.
- The Dress: Photos of the bride’s beautiful wedding gown, and the bride putting it on.
- The Groom’s Look: Some photos of the groom standing tall and getting dressed for his big day.
- The Suits: Photos of the groomsmen and their attire.
Last Shots Before the Ceremony
Before heading to the wedding ceremony, there are a few must-have shots you should be sure to include on your wedding shot list. These photos will help you remember these important moments for years to come, and capture the atmosphere before the wedding begins. The last-minute shots you might want to include in your wedding shot list are:
- The Final Look: A few photos to capture the bride and groom looking their best right before the ceremony.
- The First Look: If you’re planning to have a first look, include photos of the couple seeing each other for the first time, as well as the reactions from their loved ones.
- The Ceremony Site: Photos of the ceremony site for you to remember how the venue was set up, and capture all the special details.
Ceremony and Reception Shots
The majority of your wedding day photos will be taken during the ceremony and the reception. These photos will help you remember the big moments and the smaller details. There are so many shots you’ll want to have on your wedding shot list, including:
- The Processional: Shots of the bride walking down the aisle and the guests’ reactions.
- The Ceremony: Essential shots of the couple saying their vows, as well as shots of the rings and the officiant.
- The Recession: Shots of the guests cheering on the couple as they leave the ceremony.
- The Reception Site: A few photos capturing the magic of the reception venue before all of your guests arrive.
- The First Dance: Photos of the couple’s first dance as newlyweds.
- The Cake Cutting: Essential shots of the cake cutting, as well as the reactions of the guests.
- The Bouquet Toss: Shots of the bride tossing her bouquet to the single ladies.
Portrait and Group Shots
Of course, no wedding shot list would be complete without a few must-have portraits and group shots. These will help you remember those who attended your wedding, and capture the unique personalities and relationships of your loved ones. Some portrait and group shots you might want to include on your wedding shot list are:
- The Family: Shots of both the bride and groom’s families.
- The Bridal Party: Photos of the couple and their attendants.
- The Couple: Essential bride and groom portraits that capture their relationship and love.
Detail Shots
Last but not least, you’ll want to include a few essential detail shots in your wedding shot list. Detail shots help tell the story and capture the magic of your special day. These photos can include shots of the rings, the shoes, the dress, the bouquets, as well as any special decor or traditions. Don’t forget to include photos of the place settings, the centerpieces, and any other unique details that really capture the atmosphere of your wedding.
Final Thoughts
Creating your wedding shot list is an essential part of wedding planning, and will help ensure that your wedding photographer captures all the essential moments of your big day. Be sure to take the time to organize your list by event, and include all the essential shots, pre-wedding shots, ceremony and portrait shots, as well as detail shots. Remember, these photos will help you remember your special day for years to come!