Wedding Photo List: What Your Photographer Really Needs

You’ve probably seen massive checklists online telling you to document everything from the shoes to the seating plan - the kind of wedding photography shot checklist you don’t actually need. But the truth is simple: your wedding photographer already knows how to photograph a wedding. What they don’t automatically know is what’s meaningful to you. That’s where a well-thought-out wedding photo list actually helps.

Why Your Wedding Photo List Should Stay Simple

Your photographer doesn’t need a minute-by-minute breakdown. A short, personal list is more useful than a long generic one. Think of it as a way of saying, “Here’s what matters to us - please don’t miss these.”

They’ll handle the usual moments without direction. Your list just highlights the important extras.

What to Include in a Wedding Photo List

Here are the kinds of things worth adding because a photographer wouldn’t know them unless you tell them:

Important People

The people you absolutely want photographed:

• Parents

• Siblings

• Grandparents

• Close friends who are basically family

• Anyone who’s travelled a long way

Personal Details

Anything meaningful or sentimental:

• Heirloom jewellery

• Handwritten notes

• A special décor item you made

• Something symbolic to your relationship

Must-Have Moments

Moments that matter to you:

• A first look with a parent

• A planned surprise

• A specific group shot you’d regret missing

What You Don’t Need to Put on a Wedding Photo List

Leave out the obvious stuff - your photographer already covers it:

• The kiss

• Signing the register

• Confetti

• Cake cutting

• First dance

None of these need listing. They’re standard parts of the day.

How to Keep Your Wedding Photo List Stress-Free

A few ways to make sure it actually works:

Keep it Short

10–15 items is perfect. More than that becomes a schedule rather than a guide.

Use Names

Instead of “family photo,” write “Jon + Mum + Dad” or “Couple + grandparents.” It’s quicker and clearer.

Choose a Helper

Nominate someone who knows both families to gather people for group photos. It saves time and stops you disappearing for 45 minutes.

Final Thoughts on Creating Your Photo List

A great list is personal, brief, and easy for your photographer to follow. Share the people, details and little moments that mean the most, and let the rest unfold naturally. That’s how you get photos that feel relaxed, honest, and genuinely yours.