Wedding Must-Have Shots

Your wedding photographs and videos will be the most tangible reminder of your wedding day. Because every couple has a different list of what they consider the "must-have" shots, give the photographer a list of pictures you want to make sure you have (and, on the wedding day, bring a copy of your own in case the photographer forgets).

This list can save you money by eliminating pictures you don't want and save you stress by ensuring that the photographer will get the shots you want.

The list below should get you started thinking about what you would like -- beyond the standard formal shots of the bridal party. Print it out and check off the ideas you like; add other shots you want. Have a friend keep track of people to be photographed so you don't miss anyone, and gently remind guests to not hamper the pro's pictures while taking their own.

Wedding photographs

• Bride alone in mirror
  
• Mother adjusting bride's veil
  
• Bride pinning boutonniere on father's lapel
  
• Bride giving bouquets to bridesmaids
  
• Bride pinning corsage on mother
  
• Individual portraits of wedding party
  
• Bride looking at groom's ring, and vice versa
  
• Guest signing guest book
  
• Girls catching bouquet
  
• Flower girl admiring bride's gown
  
• Spotlight of the invitation and bouquet
  
• Candid of soloist and organist
  
• Parents hugging or kissing couple good-bye
  
• Bride's father with pockets turned inside out
  
• Grandparents and other important relatives
  
• Close-ups of hands, rings
  
• Hostesses
  
• Band or deejay
  
• Exterior view of the ceremony site
  
• First kiss as husband and wife
  
• Bride and father, bride and mother
  
• Groom and father, groom and mother
  
• Bride and groomsmen
  
• Groom and bridesmaids
  
• Bride's cake alone, groom's cake alone
  
• Best man toasting bride and groom
  
• Bride and groom silhouetted against stained glass window
  
• Bride and maid/matron of honor
  
• Groom and best man
  
• Groom and ring bearer
  
• Bride and groom lighting unity candle
  
• Candid of clergy congratulating bride and groom
  
• Ceremony portraits with no flash
  
• Reception activities and dancing
  
• Bride's table
  
• Take formal shots on location at a garden, beach or a seasonal spot
  
• For small receptions, a group picture of all wedding guests (75 or less)
  
• Father kissing bride on forehead (or cheek)
  

Fun ideas

• Pastel color-tinted photographs
  
• Shooting in black-and-white
  
• Hiring a photojournalist to cover the wedding as if it were an event
  
• Thank-you notes that feature a picture of the bride and the groom