The Ultimate Wedding Photographer Shot List

Your wedding day is almost here and there are certain shots you definitely want to look back on. Here is a list of suggested shots you can provide to your photographer. I would suggest printing this list and circling the ones that must have and cross out the ones you really don't want pictures of. Feel free to add to this list as you choose, this is just a template. Lastly, I would suggest that you allow your photographer to use their creative freedom and catch candid shots. Candid shots are always fun to look back on. So, live in the moment, don't look for the camera and enjoy the day!

Pre Ceremony

Bride & Bridesmaids
Bride & Mother
Bride & Flower Girls
Groom & Groomsmen
Groom & Father
Groom & Ring Bearer
Couple's First Look

Ceremony

Ceremony Décor
Ceremony Exterior Details
Wedding Guest
Parent's Entrance
Bridal Party Entrance
Bride's Entrance
Bride Walking Down the Aisle
Groom's Reaction
Father/mother giving the bride away
Exchanging of vows
Exchanging the rings
The first kiss as a married couple and the moment after
Signing the marriage certificate
The recessional (couple walking back up the aisle)
Receiving Line

Post Ceremony

Couple with bridesmaids/groomsmen
Couple with the entire wedding party
Bride with bridesmaids/maid of honor
Groom and groomsmen/best man
Couple with any children
Couple with each set of parents
Couple with both sets of parents
Couple with siblings
Couple with close family members

Off-Site

I suggest choosing a location that is as close to the reception site as possible. Preferably, somewhere within a 15-20 mile radius between the ceremony and the reception site. The last thing you want is to get stuck in traffic or delayed in any way. This is also the perfect time to enjoy being a married couple. Take this time to be in love and embrace the beginning of your union.

Reception

Details and room décor shots, including table settings, place cards, favors, centerpieces, etc.
Wedding cake detail shots
Grand entrance
Toasts and speeches
Cake cutting
The first dance
Bride dancing with father/groom dancing with mother
Couple mingling with guests
Bouquet Toss
Garter Toss
Guests dancing
Musicians, singers, DJ
Grand exit