Why you shouldn’t give your wedding photographer a shot list

The Downside of Shot Lists

This advice might seem counter intuitive. I know there are a lot of blog posts out there about creating a shot list for your wedding day, but I’m here to tell you why you don’t need one—and why it might actually make your day way better. Generally speaking, shot lists aren’t very helpful. (When I say “shot lists,” I’m talking about those mega detailed lists like “Bride and Groom kissing in front of the church doors” or “bride walking away showing the back of her dress.”) Sure, there are exceptions, but what really matters is choosing the right photographer (i.e., a talented experienced photographer) rather than providing them with an overly detailed list of shots.

Trust Your Photographer

You hired your wedding photographer for a reason. You’re vibing with their style, their creativity, and their knack for capturing real, beautiful moments. Trust them to work their magic. Any pro photographer is going to get the essential shots: first look, vows, first kiss, first dance, family pics, etc.

Focus on the Moment

Your wedding day is going to be a rollercoaster of emotions and joy. Instead of stressing over ticking off a list of shots, just be in the moment and soak it all in. When you’re fully immersed, your photographer can capture those raw, candid vibes that make your photos truly memorable.

The Beauty of Spontaneity

Some of the best wedding photos are the ones that happen spontaneously. If you’ve got a Pinterest board full of poses to recreate, it make things feel a bit too staged. Let your photographer have the freedom to capture what’s happening in real-time, and you’ll end up with photos that are as unique and genuine as your day.

Less Stress, More Fun

Having a shot list can sometimes add unnecessary stress. You might find yourself constantly thinking about the next shot instead of just enjoying the moment. By freeing yourself from the constraints of a list, you can relax and have more fun, knowing that your photographer has everything under control.

Communicate Key Moments

While a detailed shot list isn’t necessary, it’s still important to communicate any unique moments you’ve planned. Like, if there’s a surprise dance performance- make sure it’s on your timeline! This way, your photographer doesn’t dip out for quick bathroom break and miss the moment.

The Exception: Family Photo Combinations

The one exception to this no-shot-list rule is for family photos. It’s important to provide your photographer with a list of family combinations you want to be captured. This ensures that no important groupings are missed and helps the photo session go smoothly and efficiently.

TL;DR

Ditching the shot list can make your wedding day way more enjoyable and authentic. Trust your photographer, focus on enjoying your day, and let things unfold naturally. You’ll be stoked at the beautiful, candid moments that get captured when you just let go and have fun.

Want a wedding photographer with experience who doesn’t need a shot list? Contact me here.