Pre-Wedding Photography Checklist

Start your journey to find the perfect wedding photographer by browsing through various portfolios. Look for a style that resonates with your vision for your wedding day. Pay attention to the photographer’s lighting, composition, and ability to capture candid moments. Once you’ve shortlisted a few, arrange meetings to discuss your expectations, their pricing, and availability. Remember, the right photographer will not only have an impressive portfolio but also an understanding of your vision and a personality that makes you feel comfortable and confident.

Once you have a shortlist, set up meetings to discuss their services, pricing, and availability. This is an opportunity to ask about their style, experience, and if they have previously worked at your chosen venue. At this stage, it’s also important to clarify what the package includes (e.g., number of edited photos, hours of coverage, second shooters) and to view samples of their full wedding galleries. This decision is not just about their photography skills, but also about whether you feel comfortable with them capturing your special day. So, take your time to ensure you choose the right professional.

An engagement shoot is a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories and professional photos you can use for your save-the-date cards or wedding website. It also gives you a chance to work with your photographer prior to the wedding, helping you to feel more at ease on your big day. Choose a location that holds significance for you and your partner, and plan outfits that reflect your personal styles and the overall aesthetic you desire for the shoot. Keep in mind that these photos should be a beautiful and genuine representation of your relationship.

It’s crucial to have a discussion with your photographer regarding the specific shots that you would like captured on your wedding day. This could include moments such as the first look, the exchange of vows, or family group photos. You may also want to capture the cake cutting, the first dance, and other key moments during the reception. Providing your photographer with a list of ‘must-have’ shots will help them understand your expectations and ensure they capture the essence of your special day as you envision it.

In addition to the major moments, it’s also helpful to prepare a ‘shot list’ for your photographer that includes specific photos you would like taken. This list could include detailed shots of the wedding decorations, group photos with friends and family, candid moments during the reception, and even some sentimental items like your wedding invitation or special jewelry. Remember, these photos will serve as your visual memories of the day, so include any elements that hold special significance for you. Make sure to communicate this list to your photographer well in advance of the wedding to allow them to plan their shots accordingly.

To ensure optimal results, it’s highly recommended to visit the wedding venue with your photographer in advance. This allows both you and your photographer to scout potential photo locations, discuss possible shots, and understand the best lighting. You can explore different indoor and outdoor spots that could serve as beautiful backdrops for your photos. This step also gives you an opportunity to visualise the flow of the day, plan your movements, and discuss any specific shots you’d like at various locations within the venue. Remember, every location tells a story, so choose those spots that resonate most with you.