a guide to creating a shotlist with your wedding photographer
As a long-time wedding photographer and recent bride myself, I know the importance of documenting all those special moments throughout your wedding day.
I also know that the last thing you want to do is be in your head, managing details and worrying if she got the shot. You want to be fully immersed in the experience, at ease, knowing that your photographer has 100% got you: You’re both on the same page, and you don’t have to worry about a thing.
So, what’s the secret to this?
It’s all in the planning and communication. By reflecting on what matters to you as a couple, you, your planner and photographer can collaborate to ensure it’s captured artfully.
To get you started—Here’s a guide to the top photos you may want in your wedding album—and what goes into getting them.
Be sure to read all the way to the end for insight into how you can plan with your wedding photographer to get all the special moments captured beautifully.
Top Moments You’ll Want to Capture on Your Wedding Day
The Planning Process: How I Capture What Matters Most to You
For me, capturing your wedding day is much more than just showing up with a camera—it’s about understanding the people, moments, and details that are most important to you. That’s why I start with a thoughtful planning process to make sure we’re fully prepared to bring your vision to life.
It all begins with a questionnaire. Here, you and your partner get to share everything that’s important to you. Once I review it, we schedule a planning call. I’ll ask about details like the timeline, any special traditions, and must-have photos. I may make suggestions based on what’s been meaningful for other couples, so that nothing is left out. The goal of this call is to make sure you feel fully understood in your vision, desires, and expectations.
Building a personalized shot list comes next. With your input, I create a list of all the essential photos we want to capture (like the ones above, for example). I’ll also review the timeline to make sure nothing is missing and check in with the planner to coordinate on logistics. Working with the wedding planner as a team is key; a good planner helps ensure everything goes smoothly for both you and your vendors. This way, everyone is on the same page, and we can keep things running seamlessly all day.
Finally, I create a detailed photography timeline for the shot list, mapping out where I need to be and when. This way I’m ready with ideal lighting and composition at every key moment—whether it’s your walk down the aisle, a confetti toss, or that sunset portrait you’ve been dreaming of.
We’ll be sure to map out your vision in advance, so when your special day comes, you’ll be able to relax and savor every moment.
In the End: Trust Your Photographer
Once all the planning is done, the best thing you can do is let go and trust your photographer. They’ll be there to guide you, anticipate moments, and make sure everything flows smoothly so you can be fully present.
Why work with me?
As someone who’s spent years capturing weddings—and recently experienced my own—I know just what questions to ask and what details to focus on to capture the art you’ll love. I bring a balance of professionalism and joyous warmth to every wedding. My goal is to create an album that transports you back to the love, laughter, and once-in-a-lifetime moments that make your day uniquely yours.
If this sounds like the experience you want on your wedding day, I’d love to connect with you. Email me at tiana@tianahunterweddings.com to get started.
