A GUIDE TO CREATING A WEDDING PHOTO SHOT LIST
Photo: Morgan Stoddard Photography
Once you’ve hired your wedding photographer you may be asked at some point to start putting together a shot list. If this is your first time hearing that phrase, don’t worry! Not everyone knows what a shot list is but we’re here explain it all - what a shot list is, why you need one, and what things to include so that your wedding day runs smoothly and you end up getting the photos you really want!
What is a shot list?
A shot list is a detailed document that outlines the specific photos you want your wedding photographer to capture during the event. It serves as a roadmap for the photographer helping them understand your vision, preferences, and the key moments you want to immortalize. A well thought out and organized shot list ensures that no important detail is overlooked. By creating a thoughtful shot list, you empower your photographer to capture these moments in a way that tells the unique story of your love. From traditional poses to candid snapshots, a well-crafted shot list ensures that your wedding album becomes a cherished keepsake that you and your partner will treasure for years to come.
Three reasons you’ll want to create a shot list.
1. To Avoid Missing Key Momens
Weddings are fast-paced, and spontaneous moments unfold in the blink of an eye. A shot list helps your photographer anticipate and capture important moments such as the bride getting into her dress, the first look, first dance, photos with your family members and wedding party, and the cutting of the cake to name a few. There are many key moments that take place during the wedding and letting your photographer know what moments you want to capture ensures that these memories are preserved forever.
2. Communication with Your Photographer
Providing your photographer with a shot list establishes clear communication. It helps them understand your expectations and ensures that you are both on the same page regarding the style and tone of the photographs. It also helps to ensure they get the specific photos you want with your friends and family and with your partner and any details you want to highlight such as your table decor, dance floor, lighting, food, or flowers. These are all part of your wedding story and help to show how the day unfolded from beginning to end.
3. Efficency on the Big Day
Weddings can be hectic with various events unfolding simultaneously. A well-organized shot list helps streamline the photography process, allowing your photographer to work efficiently and capture all the essential shots without missing a beat. Rather than the photographer having to guess or ask you what photos you want, they have the shot list at their disposable to use as a guide which takes away any confusion or guess work they need to do when they are in the moment and time is of the essence.
Now that you understand the significance of a shot list, here are some tips for creating one tailored to your wedding:
1. Consult with your Photographer
Collaborate with your photographer during the planning stages. They can provide valuable insights, suggestions, and guidance on what shots will work best based on their expertise, the location, the timeframe in which you have to work with.
2. Prioritize Key Moments
Identify the key moments that are most important to you. Whether it's the first look, the exchange of rings, or a specific dance, prioritize these shots on your list. If there are specific people you want photos with let them know that too. It’s the people in your life as well as the details of the day you’ll want to capture and remember for years to come.
3. Include Special Requests
Don't hesitate to include special requests, such as specific family portraits, a champagne toast, a special dance, a sparkler send off, shots with your pets, or pictures with props. Don’t forget small details such as the groom’s cufflinks or funny socks, personalized cocktail napkins, or the bride’s shoes or accessories. These details make your wedding photos fun and unique.
4. Consider the Timeline
Structure your shot list in chronological order to align with the flow of your wedding day as well as the length of time the photographer has to work with you based on the total hours you agreed to. This helps your photographer work strategically and to anticipate what’s to come and ensures a seamless photography experience.
5. Be Open to Spontaneity
While a shot list is crucial be open to capturing spontaneous moments. Sometimes, the most memorable and heartfelt shots happen when least expected. Above all, have fun! A professional wedding photographer will be able to guide you in what details to include in your shot list and also be able to capture those moments when you aren’t posing in front of a camera so you can enjoy looking back and seeing everything you missed while you were having the time of your life!
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