The Complete Wedding Photography Checklist

A wedding is one of the most significant and memorable events in a person’s life. It’s a day filled with love, joy, and precious moments that deserve to be captured beautifully. This is where a wedding photography shot list becomes invaluable. A shot list is essentially a curated guide that outlines the key moments, people, and details to be photographed throughout the wedding day.

Having a wedding photography checklist ensures that no essential memories are overlooked, from the emotional exchange of vows to the candid smiles shared among guests. It helps the photographer stay organized and aligned with the couple’s expectations, guaranteeing a comprehensive visual narrative of the day. Moreover, it serves as a communication tool between the couple and the photographer, reducing misunderstandings and ensuring that personal and cultural traditions, family dynamics, or specific creative visions are honored. 

Hence, it’s useful to the photographer for staying organized and on track, and also to the wedding couple for conveying any specific requirements, such as a family heirloom that should be photographed in detail. Just keep in mind that the checklist should serve as a general guideline, rather than a recipe that has to be followed exactly. After all, your photographer is an expert and you should trust their ability to capture the best shots.

Ultimately, a well-prepared wedding photography shot list contributes to a smoother experience, allowing the couple to relax and fully immerse themselves in their special day, knowing that every important moment is being captured.

What Is in a Wedding Photography Checklist?

The wedding photography checklist should include the following, to cover all of the important people and events throughout the day: 

1. The pre-ceremony, when the couple gets ready before heading to the wedding ceremony.
2. The wedding ceremony, when the couple makes their vows and become officially married. 
3. Portraits and group photos with the wedding party, which includes the family, groomsmen and bridesmaids.
4. The wedding reception, which leads up to and includes lunch or dinner.

As an example, one section in “Pre-Ceremony” is “Getting Ready.” This is a checklist that contains the photos you can take of the wedding couple, as they get ready for the wedding ceremony.

One of the best ways to set up a wedding photography shot list is with a digital spreadsheet. Get our free spreadsheet—you can copy it to your own Google account, then edit and share it with your wedding photographer.

Pre-Ceremony

The pre-ceremony moments are a special and intimate part of the wedding day, brimming with anticipation and excitement. It’s a time when final preparations come together, emotions run high, and the couple gets ready to step into their new chapter. 

From the bride and groom getting dressed to heartfelt interactions with loved ones, these moments set the tone for the celebration ahead. Capturing these details—like the exchange of thoughtful gifts, quiet reflections, or a joyful first look—adds depth to the wedding story, preserving the beauty of anticipation and love before the ceremony begins.

Detail Photos

These photos help you zoom in on the little details, and build up the scene for the wedding—like an establishing shot in a movie. From the bridal accessories to the wedding stationery, here are the shots to account for.

1. The engagement ring
2. The wedding rings
3. Bridal accessories like jewelry, veil or tiara
4. Wedding dress (close up or on a hanger)
5. The bride’s wedding shoes
6. The bridal bouquet
7. The bridesmaids’ bouquets
8. The groom’s suit 
9. The groom’s accessories like the boutonnière, tie, pocket square or cufflinks
10. The groom’s shoes
11. Wedding stationery, which includes the save-the-date, invitation cards and envelopes
12. The room where the bride is getting ready
13. Family heirlooms or any sentimental items

Getting Ready

The getting ready phase of a wedding day is filled with excitement, nerves, and heartfelt moments. It’s the time when the bride and groom prepare themselves both physically and emotionally for the big day ahead. From slipping into the perfect outfit to sharing laughter with bridesmaids or groomsmen, these moments are as meaningful as they are personal. 

1. The bride getting her hair and makeup done
2. The bridesmaids getting their hair and makeup done
3. The bride putting on her wedding dress
4. The bride putting on her accessories and wearing her shoes
5. The bride getting dressed with the help of her mother, maid of honour or wedding party member 
6. The bride holding her wedding bouquet
7. A full-length photo of the bride in her wedding dress
8. Detail photos of the wedding dress and accessories on the bride
9. The wedding party’s reactions to the bride in her wedding dress
10. A group photo of the bride and her parents
11. A group photo of the bride and her bridesmaids
12. Interactions between the bride and the wedding party, whether they are sharing a heartfelt moment or just having fun
13. The groom getting ready
14. The groom adding the finishing touches, such as putting on his tie or cufflinks
15. The groom’s mother attaching a boutonnière
16. A full-length photo of the groom in his wedding suit or tuxedo
17. Detail photos of the suit and accessories on the groom
18. A group photo of the groom and his parents
19. A group photo of the groom and his groomsmen
20. Interactions between the groom and the wedding party, whether they are sharing a heartfelt moment or just having fun

First Look

The first look is a magical moment before the wedding ceremony, when the couple sees each other for the first time in their wedding outfits. It allows the couple to connect, calm any pre-ceremony nerves, and share a few quiet moments together. The key is to capture the couple’s reactions to each other, and the authentic emotions in that moment.

1. The groom waiting for the bride
2. The moment when the reveal happens
3. The bride walking towards the groom
4. The couple’s reactions to each other
5. The couple hugging or kissing after the first look
6. Close-up shot of the couple looking at each other
7. The couple holding hands and walking together
8. Reactions of the wedding party, if they are present

Wedding Ceremony

The wedding ceremony is the heart of the day—a deeply meaningful event where two people exchange their vows in the presence of their closest family and friends. Whether it’s a grand affair or an intimate gathering, this moment marks the start of a new chapter in the couple’s lives. 

From the emotional walk down the aisle to the exchange of rings and the first kiss as newlyweds, every element of the ceremony is rich with significance and beauty. Capturing these moments ensures that the couple’s love story is preserved for years to come.

Venue

The wedding ceremony venue is more than just a backdrop—it’s a reflection of the couple’s style and the atmosphere they’ve envisioned for their special day. Whether it’s a grand cathedral, a charming garden, or a cozy indoor space, photographing the venue showcases the ambiance of the setting. 

1. The exterior of the ceremony venue
2. The interior of the ceremony venue, before the guests arrive
3. Close-up shot of the altar
4. Any floral arrangements or decorations
5. Any signage for the wedding ceremony

Ceremony

Photographing a wedding ceremony is about capturing the heartfelt emotions and meaningful traditions that define the day. From the couple’s first glance to the exchange of vows, rings, and the celebratory first kiss, every detail holds significance. 

The photographer’s role is to document these moments authentically and unobtrusively, creating a visual narrative that reflects the couple’s shared commitment. 

1. The guests arriving at the wedding ceremony
2. The guests seated
3. The couple’s parents and grandparents seated
4. The groom and groomsmen arriving at the ceremony
5. The groom walking down the aisle
6. The groom waiting at the altar
7. The bride and bridesmaids arriving at the ceremony
8. The flower girl and ring bearer walking down the aisle
9. The bride walking down the aisle
10. The groom’s reaction to the bride
11. The father of the bride giving his daughter away
12. The couple standing at the altar
13. The officiant for the wedding ceremony
14. The couple exchanging their vows
15. The couple exchanging wedding rings
16. The first kiss between the newly married couple
17. Signing of the marriage certificate
18. The audience’s reactions to the proceedings, including close-ups of important members of the audience
19. The recessional, when the wedding party leaves the ceremony
20. Confetti shot outside the venue

Portraits and Group Photos

The ideal time to take your portraits and group photos is after the wedding ceremony, when the formalities are over. It’s a wonderful opportunity to capture meaningful moments with family, friends, and loved ones. From intimate couple portraits to celebratory group shots, this part of the day ensures that every important relationship is documented.

1. The couple interacting with guests
2. Group photos of the couple with guests
3. Group photo of all of the guests
4. Interactions between the guests
5. The couple posing together
6. The couple hugging or kissing 
7. The couple looking at each other
8. The couple holding hands and walking together
9. The couple looking out at the view
10. The bride with her parents
11. The bride with her family
12. The groom with his parents
13. The groom with his family
14. The couple with the bride’s parents
15. The couple with the groom’s parents
16. The couple with the bride’s family
17. The couple with the groom’s family
18. The couple with both sets of parents
19. The bride with her maid of honor
20. The bride with her bridesmaids
21. The groom with his best man
22. The groom with his groomsmen
23. The bride with the groomsmen
24. The groom with the bridesmaids
25. The couple with the entire wedding party
26. Photos of the bride or groom with any particular friend groups that are important

Wedding Reception

The wedding reception is where the festivities truly come alive—a time for family and friends to gather and celebrate with the newlyweds. From heartfelt speeches and the couple’s first dance to lively music and shared laughter, every moment of the reception is filled with love and excitement. 

Venue

The wedding reception venue is where the energy and celebration of the day come to life. Whether it’s an elegant ballroom, a rustic barn, or a scenic outdoor space, capturing the venue’s décor, lighting, and atmosphere is essential to telling the full story of the event. 

Detailed shots of the table settings, floral arrangements, and unique elements reflect the couple’s personal style and vision. 

1. The exterior of the reception venue
2. The interior of the reception venue, before the guests arrive
3. The venue’s centerpieces
4. Any floral arrangements or decorations
5. Any signage for the wedding reception
6. Stationery
7. Place settings
8. Wedding favours
9. Guest book
10. Wedding cake

Reception

The wedding reception is where the fun, laughter, and joy unfold, and photographing this part of the day ensures that these lively moments are preserved. From the couple’s grand entrance to the first dance, heartfelt speeches, and guests enjoying the festivities, every detail captures the essence of the celebration. 

1. The couple making their entrance to the reception
2. The couple sitting at the head table
3. Close-up shots of the food
4. Drinks and cocktails
5. The first dance
6. The father-daughter dance
7. The mother-son dance
8. Guests on the dance floor
9. The couple dancing with guests
10. Performances of the wedding band or DJ
11. Any entertainment or games
12. Family and friends making toasts and delivering speeches
13. The couple’s reaction to the toasts and speeches
14. The couple mingling with their guests
15. The guests mingling with one another
16. The couple sipping champagne
17. A wide shot of the reception venue with the guests
18. Cake cutting
19. The couple feeding the cake to each other
20. Bouquet toss
21. The couple leaving the reception and saying their goodbyes
22. The couple entering their getaway car
23. The couple’s getaway car driving off

After-Party

Some couples opt for an after-party after the reception, to unwind after a long day. It’s when the celebration shifts into a more relaxed and festive atmosphere, often with upbeat music, fun activities, and plenty of laughter. As the wedding photographer, you will want to capture the energy and excitement as the couple and guests let loose on the dance floor.

1. The couple’s outfit changes
2. Any new wedding decorations
3. The couple dancing
4. The guests dancing
5. The DJ
6. The bar
7. The bartender making drinks
8. Close-up shots of the drinks
9. Any entertainment or games
10. Interactions between the couple and guests

Bonus: Elevate Your Wedding Photography Experience

As wedding photographers ourselves, we believe that photography should do more than just document your life event. Wedding photographers should add to the experience of your wedding. And the most powerful way to do that is to share the photos instantly, while the wedding is still happening (and people are the most excited to get them)—not days or weeks after it’s over.

After all, your wedding photos are important not just to you. They are important to your guests too. Your wedding is a special occasion for them, and they might have taken photos with people they have not seen in a while. 

That’s why we built Honcho, so that you can give everyone the greatest gift—photos of a special event that everyone was a part of.

Honcho lets your wedding photographer instantly share their photos, while they shoot. It comes with face recognition, making it easy for your guests to find their own photos. With the live slideshow feature, you can project the photos on any screen to create excitement and spark conversations.

Make a difference to your wedding by signing up for Honcho or telling your photographer about it. Your photographer would love to hear about a game-changing app like Honcho—just ask the thousands of photographers already using it.