A wedding photo checklist? Do we really need that? Shouldn't the wedding photographer already know what he or she needs to be capturing through the big day?
The short answer is yes - for the simple reason that every couple is different and that the things that they might view as important moments may differ from the next couple. Don't let your memories of your big day be ruined because of a lack of communication prior. Wedding photographers may have their own standard checklists - but make sure you go through your photo requirements ahead to make sure no one is missed out.
Don't know how to get started? Here is a list to get you started, but the idea is to add on if there are other moments you want the photographer to keep an eye out for.
Getting Ready Moments
The nervous energy and buzzing exciting before the ceremony always gives rise to great photos with friends and family, and not forgetting the intimate shots of the bride and groom in their final moments as single individuals.
Here are some moments you don't want to miss:
The wedding attire laid out
Bride and groom getting ready individually
Bridal party surrounding the bride and groom
Parents of the bride and groom interacting with them
Bridal party group shot
Traditional Ceremony
One of the most important customs in a traditional Chinese wedding, the tea ceremony is where the couple is introduced officially to both families. It is a heartfelt affair where elders pass on their blessings and wisdom to the younger bride and groom - perfect for photo keepsakes to look back on years later.
Here are some moments to focus on:
Bride and groom serving tea to parents
Parents blessing couple with red packets and well wishes
Interactions with relatives
Bride and groom sharing a sweet dessert
Family portraits
Leaving the Matrimonial Home
It's an emotional moment for the family to be "sending off" their daughter and is the ideal setting for capturing all the overwhelming emotions that you are likely to miss in the thick of the action on the day itself.
Here are some moments you don't want to miss:
Bride leaving the home accompanied by parents sending her off
Page boys who open the door to the wedding car
Goodbyes in the car
The Ceremony
The moment where you first lay eyes on your partner just before the ceremony is incredibly emotionally overwhelming. The notion of finally being together with your soulmate after the ceremony sets in. And of course it makes it a moment to treasure.
Here are some shots you don't want to miss:
Groom and groomsmen waiting at the altar/venue
Guests seated in anxious anticipation
Bride and bridesmaid waiting for their cue to enter
Flower boys and girls
The walk down the aisle towards the groom (accompanied by parent/relative)
Groom's reaction
Giving the bride to the groom
The exchange of vows and rings
First kiss as married couple
Signing the official documents
The walk down the aisle as an officially married couple
Confetti throwing
Interacting with guests
Bridal party group photos with bride and groom
The Wedding Banquet or Reception
Now that the ceremony is done and dusted, it's time to enjoy mingling with the guests! And that's what the wedding banquet and reception is for!
Here are photos you definitely want to get for your photo album:
The ballroom or venue set up
Wedding cake
Couple arriving at the venue
Speeches by bride and groom
Mingling with the guests
Table photos
Bridal party group photos with bride and groom
Everyone letting their hair down
Discuss With Your Photographer
Now that you're all ready with a list of shots you know you must get, make sure to discuss with your wedding photographer and give them the heads up to prepare for the shots! Giving them early notice allows them not only to plan their schedule, but also to help them proactively look out for these moments to capture.
Follow all these steps and you will definitely not be disappointed when you receive your final set of wedding photos from them.
Looking To Create A Keepsake Wedding Album?
Want to put these beautifully captured wedding moments into a physical keepsake so you can take it out to recount the amazing stories from your big day?
Why not consider a keepsake wedding album or photobook (if you have too many photos to choose from?)
If you would like to create a photo keepsake with the photos you have taken and would like to learn more about our bespoke photo keepsakes (albums, photobooks and canvases), please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at hello@lovestills.sg or Whatsapp and we will be more than happy to speak with you.
We are looking forward to creating a one of a kind keepsake for you!