Your wedding day will be filled with unforgettable moments—from exchanging heartfelt vows to dancing the night away with loved ones. While it might all feel like a joyful blur, your wedding photos will bring those memories to life for years to come. That’s why having a simple photo checklist is so helpful during your planning.
If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry! We’ve put together a helpful photo shot list to guide you. Think of it as a flexible starting point, not a strict rulebook. Great photographers are experts at capturing the unique story of your day, often catching special moments you might not even think to ask for. Overthinking the details can sometimes make things feel too posed or take your photographer away from those genuine moments.
Instead, use your checklist to highlight what matters most to you—those personal touches and must-have memories that make your day one-of-a-kind. Whether it’s a quiet shot of the love note stitched into your dress, a hug with your grandad, or a group photo with your childhood friends, sharing these special requests beforehand helps your photographer stay focused on what’s most important to you.
Take some time before the big day to sit down with your partner and review the list together. Then, chat with your photographer to make sure you’re all on the same page. With a little preparation and trust in your photographer’s skills, you’ll end up with a photo collection that perfectly captures the essence of your celebration—and tells your love story just the way you want to remember it.
Wedding Photography Checklist
Detail Photos
- Bride’s Dress (hanging, with and without accessories)
- Bridal Shoes
- Bridal Jewelry (earrings, necklace, bracelet, etc.)
- Wedding Rings (close-up shots, including engagement ring)
- Invitation Suite (invites, RSVP, ceremony programs)
- Bouquet and Flower Details
- Groom’s Attire (suit, tie, cufflinks, watch)
- Bridal Veil and accessories (hairpiece, etc.)
- Other special items (family heirlooms, meaningful gifts)
Getting-Ready Photos
- Bride Getting Hair and Makeup Done
- Bride’s Reaction to Getting Ready
- Bride in Her Robe (with bridesmaids)
- Groom Getting Ready
- Groom’s Accessories (tie, cufflinks, shoes)
- Bride’s Last Touches (putting on dress, shoes, veil)
- Bride’s First Look at Her Dress (reaction shots)
- Bridal Party Candid Moments
- Groom and Groomsmen Together (laughing, chatting)
- Father/Daughter Moment (if applicable)
First Look or First Touch Photos – If Planned
- Bride and Groom First Look or First Touch (emotional, candid shots)
- Close-Up of Groom’s Reaction
- Close-Up of Bride’s Reaction
- Wide Shots of the Location (showing the environment, outdoor setting)
- Greeting or Gesture (hug, kiss, hand-holding)
- First Look with Parents or Bridal Party (if planned)
Ceremony Photos
- Guests Arriving (candid moments, seating, decor)
- Wedding Party Walking Down the Aisle (bridesmaids, groomsmen)
- Father Giving Away the Bride (if applicable)
- Vows Exchange (close-ups, emotional moments)
- Ring Exchange (close-up of rings)
- Wide Shots of the Ceremony (overall ambiance, guests)
- Bride and Groom’s First Kiss
- Bride and Groom Walking Back Down the Aisle (Newlyweds)
- Guests Cheering and Applauding
Portraits and Group Photos
- Bride and Groom Alone (intimate, romantic shots)
- Bride and Groom with Immediate Family (both sides)
- Bride and Groom with Bridal Party
- Bride and Groom with Close Friends (optional)
- Groom Alone (portrait-style shots)
- Bride Alone (portrait-style shots)
- Bride and Groom with Flower Girls/Ring Bearers (if applicable)
- Bride and Groom with Grandparents (if applicable)
- Full Wedding Party Group Shots
- Fun, Candid Group Shots (with friends/family)
Reception Photos
- Venue Details (decor, table settings, lighting)
- Guest Arrival (smiling, mingling, candid moments)
- Couple’s Grand Entrance (reactions, guest applause)
- First Dance (wide shot, close-ups)
- Parent Dances (father-daughter, mother-son)
- Cake Cutting (candids, wide shots, close-ups)
- Toasts (bride/groom reactions, laughter, guest reactions)
- Guests Dancing (fun, candid moments)
- Party Atmosphere (overall energy, crowd shots)
- Reception Details (flowers, food, decor)
- Couple’s Departure (exit photos, sparklers, confetti, etc.)
After-Party Photos
- Post-Reception Candid Shots (fun moments with guests)
- Late-Night Dancing (energy-filled, joyful moments)
- Bride and Groom Alone (intimate, private shots)
- Guests Letting Loose (laughing, group shots)
- Creative Shots (light painting, sparklers, unique settings)
- Departure Photos (couple leaving the venue)
- Farewell Shot (guests waving, throwing confetti, or sparklers)
We’ve created an easy printable checklist to help you stay organized and stress-free. Your wedding photos will be memories to cherish forever, so relax and enjoy the process. Download the checklist below and get excited for your big day!
