At the end of this post I have a FREE shot list for you to download!  Read on to find out why a shot list is an invaluable resource for a photographer.

It’s FINALLY your big day – all of your planning has finally come together.  Your wedding moves along smoothly.  No set-backs, no issues.  You did an amazing job nailing down everything from the centerpieces to your timeline.  YOU GOT THIS.

The day comes and goes and it was every bit as dreamy and beautiful as you had planned.  You’re starting your life with your new spouse, and, oh, boy is it beautiful!

 A few weeks pass, but finally, the day arrives: your photographer delivers your images.  You are ECSTATIC.  They’re beautiful.  They’re perfect.  You have everything from your first portraits with your new spouse, to detail shots of your perfectly designed centerpieces that you built yourself with your own two hands.

And then you get to the formal shots, and you realize:  you don’t have a photograph of you with your childhood best friend who lives 12 hours away from you, and flew in just for your wedding.  Only now are you realizing you never asked for it.  You never wrote it down, or told your photographer that this friend was someone who was special to you.

During my initial consult with each of my couples, I request a list of shots that I may not automatically know they want: favorite cousins, childhood friends, distant family members that aren’t normally included in family formals. I’m human, and despite doing my best to get to know my clients on a personal level, there are still things I may not know.  This is why a shot list is so important to have!

Now that you understand why a shot list is so important, I’m going to GIVE you my standard shot list!  These are the shots that, unless I’m otherwise told not to get them, are my standard procedure.  While you’re planning your wedding, read over this shot list.  Print it out and customize it.  Cross out the shots you don’t want, and write the ones you do want somewhere, either on the bottom or on the back.  Write down things your photographer won’t know unless you tell them – such as divorces and re-marriages – so I don’t put anyone into any awkward positions or uncomfortable situations.  I want your family portraits to be genuine, filled with love and smiles and all the excitement of the day!

Are you ready for your FREE shot list?  You can download it HERE.  Enjoy!