Should you create a wedding day shot list?

As you start to plan your wedding day, you might want to create a wedding day shot list for your wedding photographer. But should you create a wedding day shot list? Ultimately, it is up to you how detailed you want to be but as an Edmonton wedding photographer, I recommend you do at least consider the poses and types of photos you want to capture on your wedding day. You don’t (and shouldn’t!) have a list of 200 “must haves”, but there are a few things you can do to keep yourself organized and make sure you best communicate with your photographer.

By the way, engagement photos are a great place to practice different photos and see how much you actually like them! Read more about why I think engagement photos are sooo important here. If you are looking for an Edmonton wedding photographer, you can also check out my wedding photography pricing and packages here.

How to start creating a wedding day shot list

Fun fact: There is a 74% chance you came here from Pinterest. And that’s where I am going to tell you to go next! When you start to create a wedding day shot list, I love when clients have a Pinterest board and add me to it so I can get an idea of what kind of photos they are naturally drawn to. Sometimes sharing a vibe or feeling you are going for is even better than creating an actual list because it allows us to be creative and have fun together.

What you DEFINITELY should create a shot list for

Although you don’t need to have your wedding couple posed photos mapped out, one thing I DO recommend is having a list of the different family member photos you want. You know your family best, and it helps to have a shot list so I know to make sure every aunt or great grandparent. It’s best to start with more people and then slowly eliminate people (as people do tend to trail off after the ceremony). You can list both family shots, wedding party shots, a few of your favourite poses for you and your new spouse! That’s often more than enough. Your photographer will do the rest 😉

Combining your shot list with your wedding day timeline

Next, consider how you want the day to play out. Do you want first look photos? Do you want the bridal party photos before the ceremony? These are more obvious ones to consider how they impact your wedding timeline, but still important. Some of the less obvious ones would be something like sparkler photos or other props? You definitely want to have these planned in advance so you have the champagne bottle ready to pop when it comes time to do those photos.

Again, don’t feel like you need to over plan. Don’t feel like you need to come up with an entire list (which might be annoying to make and worse to actually implement on the wedding day and leave you feeling more stressed than necessary). Adding elements to your wedding that can be photographed will feel more fun and natural than planning your wedding around specific shots that you want to take.

Do you need help creating your wedding day shot list?

Keep in mind, your wedding photographer will be happy to work with you to create your wedding day shot list. This is not something you need to do on your own. As an Edmonton wedding photographer, I usually work WITH my couples to create these lists. If you are currently looking for a wedding photographer, you can contact me here for more information or to save the date! I would be honoured to be considered.