When Wedding Photographers Have It Covered
One of the most common things I see pop up in wedding groups is:
“My photographer has asked for a list of photos I want – what do I actually give them?”
Here’s the thing – your photographer doesn’t need a shot-by-shot plan of the whole day. We already know the flow of a wedding and the key moments to cover. What we’re really asking is:
👉 Are there any personal or unique moments that matter to you beyond the usual?
Not things like “the first kiss” or “signing the register” – those are a given. But more personal details, like:
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“I’m giving my mum a special gift – can you capture that moment?”
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“My best friend is flying in from Australia – I want a photo with her.”
It’s about those little extras that make your day uniquely yours.
By default, most photographers already capture a solid foundation of moments throughout the day. Here’s my own version of the “standard list” you can expect to be covered:
Bridal Prep
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Dress, rings, flowers, invites, and details
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Make-up shots & getting ready vibes
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Bridesmaids in PJ’s & hanging out together
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Bride in the dress
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First look with bridesmaids and/or Dad
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Portraits of the bride
Ceremony
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Groom waiting nervously/excitedly
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Walking down the aisle
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Key ceremony moments & vows
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Exchanging rings
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Guest reactions
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The first kiss
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Signing the register
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The exit
Afternoon
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Confetti toss
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Big group photo
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Family formals (this is where your family list comes in handy)
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Couple portraits
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Entertainment (magicians, singers, etc.)
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Venue & room setup before guests head in
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Speeches & reactions
Evening
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Bridal party fun
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Extra couple portraits (especially if there’s gorgeous light)
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Guest candids
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Less formal group shots with friends
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Cake cutting
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First dance
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Evening antics on the dancefloor
✨ So, when your photographer asks for a list, don’t stress. We’ve got the “standard” stuff covered. Just think about those extra special people or moments you’d be gutted to miss – that’s the gold we’re looking for.
It’s not about creating a long checklist – it’s about letting us know the personal touches that make your day yours. The things you’d be gutted if we missed.
Everything else? We’ve got it covered. From prep to dancefloor, we’ll capture the flow of the day – the details, the emotions, the laughs, the big moments, and all the little ones in between.
So when your photographer asks for “a list,” don’t overthink it. Just tell us about the people, the details, and the moments that mean the most to you. That’s where the real magic happens
The family photo list
When it comes to family photos, the goal isn’t to photograph every single relative from every branch of the family tree. It’s about making sure the most important people are captured in a way that feels natural, stress-free, and doesn’t eat up your entire drinks reception.
The key is to focus on what really matters to you. Don’t build a huge list just because you feel you should – build one around the people you absolutely want in those portraits.
The “Default” Family Photos (the quick essentials):
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Couple + Bride’s parents
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Couple + Bride’s parents + siblings/partners/kids
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Bride + Mum
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Bride + Dad
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Couple + Grandparents
These are standard, fast, and timeless. They take very little time and make sure the most immediate family moments are covered.
Where it takes longer…
Things start to slow down when you move into extended family groups – aunties, uncles, cousins, big friend groups, etc. Each of these photos can take 3–4 minutes to organise (yes, really), especially if people wander off to the bar or are busy chatting.
That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t include them – but do ask yourself:
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Is this photo truly important to me?
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Or am I only adding it because I feel like I have to?
Your day will fly by, and those extra 20 minutes spent lining up distant relatives could be time you’d rather spend mingling, drinking champagne, or soaking in the moment.
The takeaway:
Keep your list focused, intentional, and personal. If there are extra groups that really matter, absolutely include them – but don’t feel pressured to create an endless roll call. The best family photo list is the one that reflects your priorities, not anyone else’s.
