What you need to capturing everything on that special day.
When I started capturing weddings, I had no idea what the required shots were. Sure, I knew I needed to take a picture of the bride & groom, the cake, dancing, etc., but what else? When was I supposed to be capturing and when should I give them space?
I went on to watch dozens and dozens of Youtube videos. In fact, I still do! I also asked a lot of questions. I didn’t just ask Google, but I asked other photographers and videographers what they do during a wedding day.
Here is a collaboration of all that I have learned from many different Youtubers and other creators.
Now, before you read through this list, take good notes, but also remember that not every wedding is the same. You will have to adjust this list for if it is an elopement styled wedding or maybe if it is an 8-10 hour wedding. Remember to have good communication with your clients. Do what they want. However, in the end this is always a good guide to come back too.
Ultimate Wedding Photography Shot List:
DETAILS
Invitation, program, special signs, & gifts
Wedding rings
Outfit accessories like shoes, cuff links, or jewelry
Bouquet, corsages, boutonnieres
GETTING READY
Groom(s) & Bride(s) and bridesmaids & Groomsmen getting ready
Group shots with bridal party (getting ready & dressed)
Wedding dress (best if in natural light)
PRE-CEREMONY
Couple alone for first look
Bride(s) and bridesmaids/flower girls
Groom(s) and groomsmen/ring bearer
CEREMONY
Venue shots including ceremony site, flowers, interior, and exterior details
Bridal party waiting inside venue
Guests
Bridal party entrance
Bride or Groom walking down the aisle
Bride or Groom's reaction
Father/mother giving bride/groom away
Exchanging of vows
Exchanging of 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)
GROUP PORTRAITS
*Work largest to smallest
Big group first (Everyone)
Everyone who came for the bride/groom and then vise versa
Grandparents
Immediate family on each side
Just siblings on each side
Just parents on each side (can do one parent each as well)
Both parents
Couple with children (all the grandkids/nieces/nephew or their own kids if applicable)
Couple with bridesmaids/groomsmen
Couple with entire wedding party
Bride(s) with bridesmaids/maid of honor
Groom(s) and groomsmen/best man
The couple (Make sure you have at least 30-45 min for just the couple)
Details and room decor shots, including table settings, place cards, favors, centerpieces, etc.
Wedding cake detail shots
Grand entrance
Toasts and speeches
Cake cutting
The first dance
Bride(s) dancing with father / groom(s) dancing with mother
Couple mingling with guests
Guests dancing
Musicians, singers, DJ
Grand exit
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