Do You Really Need A Wedding Photography Shot List?

When you’re planning a wedding, it feels like there’s a list for everything. Guest list. Seating chart. Timeline. Packing list. Playlist. So naturally, you might be wondering: Do I need a wedding photography shot list too?

Here’s my honest take: for most couples, the answer is not really.

I know that might sound surprising, especially with so many blogs out there offering “must-have” photo lists. But the truth is, if I spend your entire wedding day glued to a checklist, I risk missing the real magic of your day—the fleeting glances, the unexpected laughter, the way your parents squeeze each other’s hand during your vows. My job isn’t to check boxes; it’s to capture what’s genuine.

That said, there are moments where a shot list can be helpful, and there are definitely some must-have photos you can trust me to capture without you ever having to ask.

When a Shot List Is Actually Helpful

Before every wedding, I send couples an event details form where you can share your plans, priorities, and any unique details you want to make sure I know about going into your day. This helps me prepare without weighing the day down with a checklist of "must-have photos."

The only time I ask for a formal “shot list” is when it comes to family photos. Every family is different—maybe you’ve got a lot of cousins, maybe there are multiple sets of parents, or maybe there are sensitive dynamics you don’t want overlooked. Having those combinations mapped out in advance (whole family, just parents, just siblings, individual shots, etc.) means we can breeze through portraits quickly, so you can get back to enjoying your cocktail hour.

The Core Shots You Can Count On

Even without a list in front of me, there are certain photos I’ll always make sure to capture. Think of these as the backbone of your wedding gallery:

• Bride solo + outfit and detail shots

• Groom solo + outfit and detail shots

• Bouquet and rings

• Family portraits

• Couple portraits (both posed and candid)

• First looks (with partner, parents, or wedding party)

• Wedding party photos (whole group + individuals)

• Ceremony and special traditions

• Reception space (wide shots + table details)

• Introductions, speeches, first dances

• Cake and cake cutting

• And of course, plenty of candids

  
  

These are the “no matter what” images that tell the full story of your day.

The Photos You Didn't Know You Needed

Some of the most powerful images aren’t the ones you’d ever think to request. Like your partner sneaking a look at you during a toast. Or the groom absentmindedly playing with his ring. Or your parents sharing a private smile in the middle of the dance floor.

These moments don’t make it onto a shot list, but they’re often the photos couples end up cherishing most. Why? Because they remind you of the feeling of your day: the atmosphere, the little quirks, the authentic interactions that make your wedding uniquely yours.

This is why giving your photographer a little creative license matters. When I’m not tied to a checklist, I have the freedom to look up, observe, and catch those unscripted gems. They’re the photos you didn’t know you needed, but the ones you’ll look back on the most.

What If You Do Have a Wedding Photography Shot List?

Every now and then, a couple comes to me with a detailed shot list. I’ll always read it and keep it in mind, but on the wedding day itself, I’m not checking things off as I go. With years of experience, I already know to photograph the details and moments that matter most.

But, to help cover all the bases and make sure I'm not missing anything important to the couple—especially during cocktail hour when little personal touches can easily get overlooked—I often work with a second shooter. That way, we’re free to document everything without sacrificing those candid, meaningful moments.

Real Wedding Spotlight: Ellana & Nick

One of my favorite examples of this approach is Ellana & Nick’s wedding. Out of all my couples, they probably gave me the least direction, yet their gallery is filled with everything that mattered most: raw emotion, stunning florals, and those in-between moments that make a wedding feel unforgettable.

Their day showed that you don’t need a long, detailed shot list to end up with a meaningful collection of images. Instead of focusing on poses or specific requests, they trusted me to document their story as it naturally unfolded. That trust allowed me to notice the little things, like the joy on Ellana’s bridesmaids’ faces when they saw her in her dress, or the way Nick loosened up once he was surrounded by his closest friends.

And then there were the flowers. Absolutely breathtaking, they became a focal point in so many of the photos and added to the romantic, joyful feel of the day. Combined with the laughter, the tender glances, and the spontaneous moments, their gallery feels like them through and through.

Final Thoughts

So, do you need a wedding photography shot list? For the most part, no. What you really need is a photographer you trust to capture your story authentically.

I will always make sure the essential photos are covered, and I will always ask you about anything unique or important to your family dynamics. Beyond that, the best thing you can do is be fully present. Because the moments you cannot plan? Those are the ones that often mean the most.

Ready to start planning your best day yet? Reach out here and let's talk all things wedding photography, including how I can give you a gallery that's filled with can't-miss moments.