Your wedding day is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences you’ll want to remember forever. But when you’re caught up in the magic of the moment, it’s really easy to forget half of the shots you hoped you’d get.
That’s why having a wedding photo checklist is a total game-changer. It means you can stay present, soak up every smile, and trust that the most unforgettable moments will be captured beautifully.
Take a look at the checklist below for guidance before handing your list to your photographer.
The special details
Before you say “I do”, there’s likely to be a bunch of little things that deserve their own spotlight:
- Invitation suite – these set the tone for your day, so it’s worth having some snaps that capture them forever.
- Rings – don’t forget shots of the women’s or men’s wedding bands alongside the engagement ring.
- Accessories – this may include cufflinks, shoes, and hair accessories.
- Flowers – capture your beautiful wedding flowers, including bouquets, boutonnieres, and table arrangements.
Preceremony moments
This part of the day is full of energy, anticipation and excitement, so you’ll want to remember it all. Plan enough time so your photographer can capture genuine reactions and not feel rushed.
- Getting ready – may include candid laughs with your family and friends, makeup touches, tying ties and adjusting veils.
- First look – whether it’s with your partner or family, these are raw, real, reaction filled moments you’ll want to capture.
- Travel and arrival – portraits in the car, stepping out and those first deep breaths before walking in.
Ceremony highlights
This is the heart of the day. Here are some key shots you won’t regret having:
- Guests arriving – capture the buzz as everyone takes their seats.
- Wedding party entrance – big smiles and friends and family lining up.
- Walking down the aisle – one of the signature moments of your entire album.
- Ceremony shots – get snaps of you saying your vows, exchanging rings, “the” kiss and your joyful exit.
Couple shots
After the ceremony, take a moment for the two of you and slip away with your photographer for some photos. Here are some options to consider:
- Your first moment together – a candid shot of the two of you right after the ceremony.
- The close-up – this could be a kiss, a laugh or a loving gaze.
- Walking hand-in-hand – choose a scenic spot such as a garden, field, beach or architectural backdrop.
- Silhouette shot – a dramatic silhouette shot with the sun setting behind you.
Family and group photos
Group shots can be chaotic if not organized, so prepare your list in advance and designate a helper or two. This means less time will be spent rounding people up, so you can enjoy more time celebrating. You may want to include:
- Immediate family combinations
- Wedding party portraits
- Extended family
- Entire guest list (if you want one big photo!)
Candid moments
Some of the best photos are those taken in the moment:
- Toasts – full of laughter, tears and inside jokes.
- First dance – capture your first dance as a married couple.
- Cake cutting – smiles (and maybe a little frosting on your nose).
- Guest interactions and dancing – these tell the story of your celebration.
With a clear checklist like this, you won’t have to worry about missing anything, from the tiny details to giant hugs on the dance floor. So, share this with your photographer, relax and enjoy every moment of your big day.
