The Essential Wedding Photography Shot List

A wedding photo shot list is a detailed guide to capturing every essential moment of your big day, from the intimate getting-ready shots to the celebratory reception moments. It includes everything from close-ups of the wedding details (like the dress, rings, and flowers) to portraits of the bride, groom, and their loved ones, ensuring that no important memory is missed. The list also covers key moments like the first look, ceremony, group shots, speeches, and the lively reception, as well as candid shots of guests enjoying the celebration. Tailor the list to your personal preferences, and you'll have a beautifully captured story of your wedding day.

Getting Ready

1. Bride’s Details:

   • Wedding dress hanging

   • Shoes

   • Jewelry

   • Veil

   • Bouquet

   • Invitation suite

   • Perfume

   • Bridal makeup being applied

   • Bridesmaids helping the bride into her dress

   • Bride putting on shoes or veil

   • Close-up of bride’s hands with ring

2. Groom’s Details:

   • Groom’s suit and accessories (tie, cufflinks, shoes, etc.)

   • Groom adjusting tie or cufflinks

   • Groom with best man, laughing or chatting

   • Groom putting on shoes

3. Bridesmaids & Groomsmen:

   • Bridesmaids’ dresses

   • Groomsmen in suits

   • Group shots of bridesmaids and groomsmen

   • Individual portraits of bridesmaids/groomsmen

   • Candid moments of bridesmaids and groomsmen

First Look (Optional)

1. The First Look:

   • Groom’s reaction to seeing bride for the first time

   • Bride walking towards groom

   • First embrace and kiss

   • Full-body shot of the couple during the first look

Bride and Groom Portraits

1. Solo Portraits:

   • Bride alone, full-length and close-up

   • Groom alone, full-length and close-up

2. Couple Portraits:

   • Natural moments of the couple laughing, hugging, or kissing

   • Walking together, holding hands

   • Soft and intimate close-ups

   • Black and white shots

   • Couple in a scenic or interesting location

Ceremony

1. Arrival:

   • Guests arriving at the venue

   • Groom waiting at the altar

   • Bride walking down the aisle (with escort if applicable)

   • Father giving the bride away (if applicable)

2. Vows and Exchange:

   • Bride and groom exchanging vows

   • Close-up of rings being exchanged

   • Reaction shots of the couple during vows

   • Wide shot of ceremony

3. First Kiss:

   • First kiss as a married couple

   • Couple walking back down the aisle after the ceremony

   • Guests' reactions and applause

Group Photos

1. Family Photos:

   • Bride and groom with bride’s family

   • Bride and groom with groom’s family

   • Bride’s parents with the couple

   • Groom’s parents with the couple

   • Immediate family of the couple

   • Extended family (if desired)

2. Bridal Party:

   • Bride with bridesmaids

   • Groom with groomsmen

   • Bridal party together

   • Fun or candid shots with the bridal party

3. Couple and Guests:

   • Wide shots of the venue with guests mingling

   • Bride and groom with close friends

   • Candid shots of guests interacting

Reception

1. Details:

   • Reception venue details (decor, table settings, centerpieces)

   • Cake and dessert table

   • Place cards, menu cards, and other stationery

2. Entrance:

   • Bride and groom entrance

   • Couple’s first dance

   • Candid moments during the first dance

3. Speeches & Toasts:

   • Toasting with champagne

   • Parent speeches (if any)

   • Best man and maid of honor speeches

4. Candid Reception Moments:

   • Guests dancing

   • Candid laughter, hugs, and interactions

   • Kids playing or running around

   • Close-up of wedding guests enjoying the moment

5. Cutting the Cake:

   • Bride and groom cutting the cake

   • Cake feeding moments

   • Guests watching

6. Dancing & Party:

   • Dance floor moments

   • Guests dancing

   • Bride and groom dancing with guests

   • Close-ups of the bride’s and groom’s faces as they interact with friends and family

Send-off

1. Exit:

   • Bride and groom walking out of the venue

   • Guests throwing confetti, petals, or waving sparklers

   • Couple’s getaway car

This shot list should cover the main moments, but don’t forget to allow for some candid shots and creative moments that will make the album even more special.