A Shot List For Capturing Magical Wedding Moments

A wedding is one of the most important days in a person's life, and wedding photography is a way to immortalise it. Creating a shot list for your wedding photographer is essential to ensure that you don't miss out on capturing any important memories. A shot list is a checklist of must-have photos that enables you to be certain that you'll get the specific pictures you've imagined. It also makes your photographer's job easier by providing them with pre-planned instructions to work with. This list can include photos of the wedding attire, accessories, venue, decorations, and, of course, the couple and their families. While the photographer will capture many moments throughout the day, a shot list ensures you get the images you've envisioned.

Bridal photos: hair, makeup, dress, shoes, accessories, etc

Bridal photos are an essential part of your wedding shot list and there are many details to consider. Here is a guide to help you capture the perfect bridal images:

Hair and Makeup

Capturing the bridal hair and makeup process is a wonderful idea. Ask your photographer to take photos of the following:

• The bride getting her hair and makeup done, focusing on the application of makeup and any styling tools being used.
• A close-up of the hairstyle from the back, showcasing any intricate braids, curls, or accessories.
• A shot of the bride with her hair and makeup artists, perhaps even capturing a fun moment like a cheer or a toast.
• If the bride is wearing false eyelashes, capture a photo of the lashes being applied to emphasise the transformation.

Dress

The wedding dress is one of the most anticipated elements of the bridal look. Be sure to include these shots:

• A photo of the dress hanging up before the bride puts it on. This can be a creative shot, perhaps with natural light streaming in or including accessories like shoes and jewellery nearby.
• Detail shots of the back of the dress, as well as any beading, embroidery, or unique patterns.
• A full-length photo of the bride in her dress, capturing the entire ensemble, including accessories and shoes.

Accessories, Shoes, and Jewellery

The bridal accessories, shoes, and jewellery are like the icing on the cake. They complete the bridal look and deserve their own spotlight:

• Capture close-up shots of the jewellery, especially if they are family heirlooms or have sentimental value.
• Detail shots of the shoes are a must, focusing on any unique designs, embellishments, or even the sole of the shoe.
• If the bride is wearing a veil, capture a photo of it draped beautifully over a chair or table.
• For an added touch of glamour, consider a photo of the bride putting on her shoes, with the dress already on.

Final Touches

The final moments of the bridal preparation are crucial and often emotional:

• A shot of the bride with her parents or wedding party members, putting the finishing touches on her look, such as attaching a boutonniere or fixing the veil.
• An emotional photo of the bride with her parents and/or siblings, capturing the love and support of her family.
• The bride looking out of a window can make for a thoughtful and dreamy shot, perhaps contemplating the day ahead.
• A fun photo of the bride and her bridesmaids cheering and celebrating the day.

Remember, this is your special day, and your wedding shot list should reflect your unique vision. Feel free to add or modify the suggestions to match your style and personality.

Groom photos: attire, accessories, getting ready, etc

Capturing the groom's preparations is an important part of documenting the wedding day. It creates a record of the groom's activities and emotions as he gets ready for the big day. Here are some ideas for groom photos focusing on attire, accessories, and getting ready:

Getting Ready Photos:

The groom getting ready photos can include a range of moments, from the latter stages of preparations to emotional interactions with family and friends. Here are some ideas:

• Capturing the camaraderie and emotions between the groom and his best man/groomsmen: the excitement, joy, joking, and nerves are all authentic feelings that make for wonderful memories.
• Photographing the groom and his best man/groomsmen helping each other with their attire, such as adjusting a bow tie, inserting cufflinks, or putting on braces. These moments capture the spontaneity and feelings between the groom and his loved ones.
• If the groom is getting ready alone, capture details such as the wedding attire hanging on a wardrobe, bedpost, or chair.
• A full-length shot of the groom in his outfit, looking in the mirror.
• Detail shots of clothing, shoes, accessories, and any special items.
• Emotional shots of the groom with their parents and/or siblings.
• The groom toasting with their best man/groomsmen before the ceremony. This can be a great opportunity for photos, especially if the groom has a favourite drink or matching glasses.

Attire and Accessories Photos:

• Buttoning up the suit jacket: This is a classic pose that showcases the groom's attire, including the watch and cufflinks.
• Putting on the shoes: Capture the groom lacing up their shoes, showcasing their footwear and the lower half of their attire.
• Tying the tie: Whether the groom is tying their own tie or receiving help, this moment captures the preparation and attention to detail.
• Close-up shots of accessories: Focus on the finer details such as cufflinks, boutonnieres, pocket squares, tie clips, and watches.
• Group shots with the groomsmen: Capture the groom and their groomsmen in their full attire, showcasing the style and coordination of the wedding party.
• Fun sock photo: If the groomsmen are wearing printed or colourful socks, capture this lighthearted moment.
• Personalised accessories: If the groom or groomsmen have splurged on unique accessories, such as luxe cufflinks or boutonnieres, take close-up shots to highlight these special touches.

First look photos: couple's reactions, embrace, etc

Capturing the couple's first look is an important part of wedding photography. The first look is an intimate moment where the couple sees each other for the first time on their wedding day, dressed in their wedding attire. This moment can be quite emotional, so it's a great opportunity for candid shots of the couple's reactions and embrace. Here are some tips and ideas to capture stunning first look photos:

• Partner Approaches: Capture the moment when one partner approaches the other from behind. This can create a sense of anticipation and build-up to the moment they turn around and see each other.
• Over-the-Shoulder Shot: Take a photo from over the groom's shoulder as the bride approaches. This perspective allows you to capture the groom's expression as he sees the bride for the first time.
• Tap on the Shoulder: Suggest that the bride or partner gently taps the groom's shoulder before turning him around. This adds a playful element to the photo and can create a spontaneous reaction.
• Close-up Shots: Focus on capturing close-up shots of the couple's facial expressions and emotions. Zoom in on their smiles, tears, and the spark in their eyes as they lay eyes on each other.
• Embrace and Affection: After the initial reaction, capture the couple as they embrace, hold hands, or share a tender moment. These photos will exude warmth and love.
• Reading Letters: If the couple has written letters to each other, suggest that they read them during the first look session. This can make the moment even more intimate and heartfelt.
• Private Moment: Ensure that the couple has some privacy during their first look. While the photographer will be present to capture the moment, try to create a quiet and intimate atmosphere for them to connect.
• Different Angles: Experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture the first look from various viewpoints. Move around discreetly to capture the couple's reactions and emotions from multiple angles.
• Candid and Posed Shots: While the first look is primarily a candid moment, you can also guide the couple into a few posed shots after their initial reactions. This can include gentle prompts, such as suggesting they read their letters or walk towards the camera together.
• Lighting and Location: Discuss lighting and location options with the couple beforehand. The first look usually occurs a few hours before the ceremony, so natural lighting conditions may vary. Choose a location that provides flattering lighting and a beautiful backdrop for the photos.

Remember to communicate with the couple beforehand to understand their preferences and any specific requests they may have for their first look photos.

Ceremony photos: altar, guests, wedding party, parents, etc

Capturing the wedding ceremony is crucial, and there are many special moments to immortalise through photography. Here is a detailed shot list to ensure you capture the magic of the ceremony:

Altar, Guests, Wedding Party, and Parents

The altar or canopy is a key focal point of the ceremony and can be beautifully captured from the back during the ceremony. Get a wide shot of the audience from the couple's point of view to showcase the scale of the occasion. The groom or partner standing at the altar, waiting for their loved one, is a classic moment.

Capture the guests entering the site, with ushers escorting them to their seats. Get a close-up of the couple's parents or guardians waiting for their child to walk down the aisle. The wedding party, including bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, and ring bearers, coming up the aisle is a colourful, joyous moment.

The Couple

The bride or partner walking up the aisle, perhaps on the arm of a parent or guardian, is an iconic moment. Get a close-up of the couple's faces as they exchange vows, capturing the emotion of the occasion. The couple putting rings on each other's hands is a special, intimate moment.

The first kiss as a married couple is a highlight, and the officiant should step out of the shot to ensure a clear view. The couple's recessional, or exit, is another key moment, especially if guests throw confetti or rice.

Additional Shots

Don't forget to capture the couple's reactions during the ceremony, such as laughter during the vows or a struggle to put on the ring. The couple's parents' reactions as the bride or partner approaches are also worth capturing.

Get a shot of the couple under the confetti or cheering with friends and family after the ceremony. The couple's first moments alone, perhaps stealing a kiss, are also special and intimate.

Group Shots

The couple with the entire wedding party is a must-have shot, as well as separate shots of the bride with bridesmaids and the groom with groomsmen. The couple with both sets of parents is another essential group photo.

If there are children in the wedding party, ensure you get photos of them with the couple and on their own. They grow up so fast, and these memories will be cherished.

Venue and Details

The ceremony venue is worth showcasing, so get a landscape shot of the place and a photo of the empty ceremony room decorated before guests arrive. If there are any unique touches, such as floral arrangements or altar decor, be sure to capture them.

The wedding rings are an important detail, so get a close-up of the couple's hands as they exchange rings. If the best man is in charge of the rings, get a photo of him holding them.

Reception photos: venue, food, guests, speeches, etc

Capturing the wedding reception is all about immortalising the joy of the occasion and the atmosphere of the venue. Here is a detailed shot list to ensure you capture the magic of the moment:

Venue

Get a shot of the outside of the venue, preferably with the happy couple in the foreground. This will help set the scene and provide context for the event. Then, move inside to capture the details: the place cards, guest book, centrepieces, decorations, table settings, and the all-important food and drinks. Capture the wedding cake or dessert table in all its glory, and be sure to get a shot of the couple feeding each other cake.

Guests

It's important to get shots of the guests enjoying themselves, whether that's laughing and chatting, or dancing the night away. Get close-ups of guests making toasts, and be sure to get photos of the wedding party and the couple dancing with their parents. It's also a good idea to get shots of the guests arriving at the reception venue, and the couple being welcomed with a receiving line.

Speeches

Capture the speakers at the podium, with close-ups of their facial expressions and reactions, as well as shots of the couple reacting to the speeches.

Couple

The reception is a great time to get shots of the couple mingling with their guests, sipping champagne, and chatting. You can also get more posed shots of the couple at the head table, as well as their first dance, and any other special dances with parents or the wedding party.

Remember, while it's great to have a shot list, the reception is also a time to capture candid moments and the unique, unexpected details of the day.

Frequently asked questions