A shot list is not a must have in all cases. Your wedding photography could be so simple that is doesn’t require much to get everything on your list to make sure it done. Although if it’s jammed packed with so much that it’ll make your head spin, you should consider a list without a doubt.
Let’s break down what you really need to send your photographer before the big day, Chicago-style (deep dish optional).
Why a Wedding Photography List Isn’t Just Annoying Homework
It’s not about making more work for you (trust me, I don’t want extra emails either). A shot list helps me capture the people and moments that make your day your day. Got a sibling who hates photos? I’ll wrangle them, with love mind you. I’ll get my list out and start checking it off. Things can’t always go as planned, people tend to go their own way, but for the most part you can be assured that it’s being taken care of.
What You Should Include (And What You Can Ignore)
1. VIPs: Who’s Who in Your Crew
Let me know the folks you cannot live without in these photos. Grandma, best friend since kindergarten, your dog in a bow tie… I don’t want to miss anyone, and I definitely don’t want to hear, “We forgot to get a pic with Aunt Suzie!” You can’t remember it all on the spot which is the reason for our list.
- Immediate family (parents, siblings, grandparents)
- Extended family (aunts, uncles, cousins, etc)
- Wedding party
- Special guests (honorary family, “chosen” family)
2. Must-Have Moments (AKA The Good Stuff)
Here’s where you drop the honest truth: Are you into the “first-look” moment, or is that too mushy? Do you want a picture of sunflowers with your rings or just you squishing cake in each other’s faces? Let’s surprise your guest, but not your photographer, especially if they are supposed to be ready for the moment.
- Getting ready (champagne spray optional)
- First look (if you’re doing one)
- Walking down the aisle
- First kiss—obviously!
- Table Photos
- Any traditions (jumping the broom, breaking glass, dollar dance, Chicago hot dog stand…yes, that’s real)
3. The “If We Miss This, We’ll Cry” List
These are the absolutely necessary shots. Seriously, if I don’t photograph this, you’ll send me a tearful GIF after the wedding. Maybe it’s a photo with your parents wedding picture, or a coffee shop brought you together.
- Heirloom items (grandma’s necklace, a special handkerchief)
- Family Dog (who’s been with you since grade school)
- Holding a photos of family members that passed on
4. Family is important but don’t make it complicated
It’s easy enough for me to say Mom, Dad, brother, sister from either the bride or groom. It just get’s complicated when we get to extended family. I mean I don’t know about you, but I have more than a few aunts and uncles. Having them all up at the same time might be crazy. So associated names would be good to follow with groups outside of immediate family.
5. Don’t forget to include
The photo list is important no sought, but there are some items that are not necessarily photography related. Such as
- Location address of – where you’re getting ready at, the ceremony and the reception
- The planner or DJ’s itinerary is it is available. It’s good to be on the same page.
What You Can Skip (From a Pro)
- Endless Pinterest printouts.
- A full play-by-play of the ceremony (I’ll be there, I promise)
- Demanding I Photoshop out exes. I mean, I can, but that’s an extra fee and a story for another blog.
Quick Tips to Make Your Photographer Actually Like You
- Keep your list concise: 10-20 group combos max is perfect.
- Full names are needed if it gets more complicated than saying mom, dad, brother or sister.
- Clue me in on any surprises to you guests.
- If there’s a special dance, please let them know.
Final Thoughts (and a Small Plea)
Making this list isn’t about perfection. It’s about making sure you get the memories you want—and that you don’t get a bunch of strangers grinning back at you in your wedding album.
So help your photographer (me!) help you. We’re all in this together—preferably with cake at the end.
Let me know if you have questions! I’m here, shuffling camera batteries and dreaming of deep dish.