Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and capturing every precious moment is essential. To ensure nothing is missed, I’ve compiled an ‘Ultimate Wedding Photography Checklist’ for the bride and groom. This guide covers everything from pre-ceremony preparations to the grand exit, ensuring you have a comprehensive list that we can share to really get the most from your wedding photography experience.
However, remember, weddings are a live event we and not a photoshoot where we are in control of the time. Each wedding is different, and events happen which changes timelines which can influence any desired photograph. Remember also, if it is possible, I’ll capture it. With over 550 weddings photographed over more than 15 years I have the professionalism to capture your day.
Pre-Wedding Preparations
Invitation Suite – capture the beautifully designed invitations, RSVP cards, and any other stationery
Wedding Dress & Accessories – detailed shots of the wedding dress, shoes, jewellery, and other accessories
Bride & Groom Getting Ready – candid and posed shots of the bride and groom preparing for the day (assuming B&G in same location)
Hair & Makeup – close-ups of the bride’s hair and makeup process
Bridal Bouquet & Buttonholes – detailed shots of the flowers before they are held or pinned
Bride & Bridesmaids – group photos and individual shots with each bridesmaid
Groom & Groomsmen – group photos and individual shots with each groomsman.
Family Moments – intimate moments with close family members during preparations
First Look – ( a great moment to capture some emotion with the father of the bride or even the Groom)
Ceremony
Venue Shots – wide and detailed shots of the ceremony venue, including any special decorations
Arrival of Guests – candid shots of guests arriving and mingling
Groom’s Entrance – the groom walking down the aisle or standing at the altar (if not with the bride)
Bridal Procession – the bride walking down the aisle, capturing her emotions and those of her guests
Ceremony Details – floral arrangements, and other decor
Vows Exchange – the bride and groom exchanging vows and rings
The Kiss – the first kiss as a married couple
Recessional – the couple’s joyful walk back down the aisle
Post-Ceremony
Immediate Family & Wedding Party – group photos with immediate family and the entire wedding party
Couple’s Portraits – romantic and candid shots of the couple at various locations around the venue
Reception Décor – detailed shots of the reception area, including table settings, centrepieces, and the cake
Guest Book & Favours – close-ups of the guest book and any wedding favours
Reception
Grand Entrance -the couple’s grand entrance into the reception area
Speeches & Toasts – candid shots of speeches and the couple’s reactions
Cake Cutting – the cake cutting ceremony and feeding each other cake
First Dance – the bride and groom’s first dance as a married couple
Candid Guest Shots – candid moments of guests enjoying the reception
Bouquet Toss – the traditional bouquet toss events
Dancing – fun and energetic shots of the dance floor and guests dancing
Special Exit – the couple’s grand exit, whether it’s with sparklers, confetti, or another special send-off
A Few Extra ‘Must-Haves’
Detail Shots – any unique details that are significant to the couple
Candid Moments – unscripted, natural moments throughout the day
Multiple Angles – important moments like the first look, vows, and first dance captured from different angles
And finally…
Communication is Key – discuss your vision and any specific shots you want with me ahead of time
Create a Timeline – ensure to share your schedule with me to capture every key moment. However, I always send you a Timeline to complete which may compliment any wedding spreadsheet!
Designate a Photo Coordinator – have a trusted friend or family member help gather people for group shots
Trust Your Photographer – while having a checklist is great, you will always be able to trust in my creativity and expertise!
By following this ultimate wedding photography checklist, you’ll ensure that every special moment and detail is beautifully captured, providing you with timeless memories of your perfect day.
And as an experienced professional Wedding Photographer, I know exactly how to capture the absolute best images and make you and your guests feel completely at ease.
Please take a look at my Gallery or Local Weddings web pages to get an idea of my style and approach – or get in touch with me for a friendly chat about your forthcoming wedding plans!
