PHOTOGRAPHED BY GIA · 600+ WEDDINGS
Your wedding photography checklist: book your photographer 9 to 12 months out, share a short family list, plan portrait time and have your details ready on the morning of the wedding.
Your Wedding Planning Checklist, Photography First
Wedding Checklist is rather easy to do especially when you have everything in place. First thing on anyone’s checklist should be the budget, followed by the guest list so you can decide on the venue to be used. Then the wedding party list, a must is reserving the dates and venues and save those.
After the dates are set, the officiant must be booked, wedding photographer, wedding videographer, music (dj and m/c), florist that can do everything based on your wedding color schemes.
More on the wedding checklist are the transportation, hair and make-up, the restaurant menu, shoes, and last but not least your honeymoon. I haven’t forgotten the rings, those are something special that should be picked by both, the bride and groom, as most things are done just by one or the other.
For a quicker service and a free quote call Gia now at local (312) 927-7238 to schedule a no obligation consultation.
Wedding Photography Checklist: What to Do and When
9 to 12 months before
- Set your photography budget and decide on style (candid, traditional or both).
- Shortlist and meet photographers. Use my 15 questions to ask a wedding photographer.
- Book your photographer as soon as your date and venue are confirmed.
4 to 8 months before
- Schedule your engagement session so photos are ready for save-the-dates.
- Pick outfits and a location for the engagement photos.
1 to 2 months before
- Share your timeline with your photographer, including sunset time for portraits.
- Finalize the family photo list and name a helper from each side.
- Confirm portrait locations and any permits needed (some Chicago parks and gardens require them).
- Ask your officiant about photo rules in the ceremony space.
The week of the wedding
- Put all details in one box: rings, invitation suite, shoes, jewelry, perfume, vow books.
- Send your photographer final addresses, contact names and timeline changes.
- Steam the dress and suit, and keep a nice hanger ready for detail photos.
Wedding Photo Shot List
You don’t need to hand your photographer 200 poses. Use this list to mark what matters most to you and anything unique to your families.
Details
- Rings, invitation suite, dress, shoes, bouquet, boutonnieres, jewelry, perfume, venue decor, cake and table settings. See wedding details photography.
Getting ready
- Hair and makeup, putting on the dress, buttoning or zipping, putting on shoes and jewelry, the groom tying his tie, reading letters, reactions from parents.
First look (optional)
- The walk up, the reaction, a few quiet minutes together, then portraits.
Ceremony
- Guests arriving, the processional, partner’s reaction at the aisle, the vows, ring exchange, the kiss, the recessional, a wide shot of the venue.
Family and wedding party
- Immediate family on each side, grandparents, full wedding party, bridesmaids, groomsmen, special requests. See the sample list in traditional wedding photography.
Couple portraits
- Full length and close up, walking, a golden hour set, one or two Chicago skyline or landmark shots if your timeline allows.
Reception
- Grand entrance, toasts, first dance, parent dances, cake cutting, bouquet and garter toss, dancing, guest table candids, the send-off.
Wedding Photography Checklist FAQ
Should I give my photographer a shot list?
Give a short list of must-haves, especially family groupings and anything unique (a family heirloom, a cultural tradition). An experienced photographer will cover the standard moments without a long list.
When should we book our wedding photographer?
Nine to twelve months before for peak season Saturdays. Read how to choose your wedding photographer for the full process.
What details should I have ready for photos?
Rings, the full invitation suite, shoes, jewelry, perfume or cologne, vow books and any heirlooms, all gathered in one box before the photographer arrives.
More planning help: 12 wedding photography tips for brides.
What should be on a wedding photography checklist?
Your timeline, a short family photo list, key details (rings, invitations, shoes) and a contact person for family photos.
Planning Your Chicago Wedding?
I personally photograph every wedding I book. Tell me your date and venue, or call (312) 927-7238.