If you flip through the wedding photo album of your parents or aunts, you’ll likely see a pretty typical collection of photos: First kiss after the ceremony, cutting the cake, a close up of their hands with the rings on them. Basically all of the classic photos you imagine when you consider a 1980’s wedding photo shoot. While these are for sure on the list of “don’t miss wedding memories” there are so many more special and candid moments that should make your wedding shot list.
A wedding shot list is just a list of photos you don’t want the photographer to miss. Most photographers are happy to oblige with special requests, but keep in mind that they likely already have a photo checklist, so be courteous and keep your request to 8-10 photos. It’s important to have a conversation before the shoot so you both are on the same page. A good wedding photographer will capture the classic shots, but also have her own creative wedding shot list, so a quick chat lets you meld your lists together, ensuring you are happy with the outcome.
One of the unique things about Zazzi is that you can quickly look through photographers’ portfolios to see which photographers in your area take creative wedding photos and which photographers have the same style and feel that you want for your dream wedding. Zazzi is a fantastic place to get ideas, and find the perfect photographer.
Creative Wedding Shot List Ideas
Here’s a list of creative wedding photos to consider. This list is meant to complement a traditional wedding shot list that would include all of the standard wedding photos. Use this list to pick out a few unique wedding shots you might not have considered.
Rehearsal Dinner Wedding Photo Ideas
- Bride working out last minute details
- Bride and groom alone together
- Bride and groom watching toasts
Pre-Ceremony Wedding Photo Ideas
- Dress hanging up
- Styled shot of shoes and jewelry
- Styled shot of something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue
- Bride getting her hair done
- Groom putting on his tie
- Bride and her mom/dad in a quiet moment
- Groom and his dad/mom in a quiet moment
- Mother of the bride and bridesmaids helping get ready
- Zipping up bride’s dress
- Empty decorated venue
- Bride looking in the mirror for the first time when she’s ready
- Father of the bride seeing her for the first time
- Ring bearer/flower girls waiting to start
- Back of the dress/veil on the bride
Wedding Ceremony Photo Ideas
- Bride waiting to enter ceremony
- Groom waiting for bride
- Groomsmen and bridesmaids waiting outside the venue
- Groom’s first glimpse of bride
- Closeup of hands during ring exchange
- Signing the marriage certificate
- Confetti or rice throwing
- Bride’s/groom’s parents as the new couple leaves the venue
Wedding Reception Photo Ideas
- Details of the room decor
- Closeup of cake topper with couple in the background
- Guests signing guest book
- Wedding couple visiting with select guests
- Ring bearer/flower girls looking at wedding couple with admiration
- Last kiss of the night
- Bride’s shoes discarded for dancing
- Bride and groom laughing together
- Bride and groom taking a selfie together
Wedding Details Photo Ideas
- Invitations
- Place settings
- Close up details of dress not on bride
- Styled shot of rings
- Family heirlooms included in ceremony
- Bride and groom feet facing each other
Bottom Line
You’ve spent endless hours planning every detail to make sure your wedding day is uniquely yours. Look for ways to capture those unique details. Planning ahead and giving your photographer a creative wedding shot list will ensure that you have something special in your wedding album.