Photo List for Photographer

This is something you should ask your photographer. Mine didn’t ask for a list besides what family members did we for sure want to have pictures with.

My photographer asked us if we had a list. We had very few that we absolutely had to have (that would not necessarily have been taken), so we just mentioned those ones. I think most photographers expect to get a short list, at least, but don't like it when a couple lists 5 pages of "must haves" because then they don't get to use their artistic eye - but that's just my opinion.

Mine specifically asked us to make a list of the shots that were most important to us. I don't think any professional photographer is going to be offended by a list of requested shots. This is what they do, and they know that each couple wants something different. There's no hard and fast rule of what shots to take, so it's a case by case thing. Make a list. It's a lot less stressful that way.

I think it is super helpful to have a list. And I think it makes it clear what pictures are important to you. My photographer had a checklist included in her contract, and I plan on making a thorough one before the big day. My fiance's parents are divorced and both remarried and I am wanting to make sure to get photos with all the parents, step-parents, and family members. I don't think that a list is infringing on them, because I am deferring to their judgement on everything else (lighting, placement of people, editing, etc.). A list just helps with organization and ensuring nothing and no one is left out.

I would definitely just start off having a conversation with your photographer! Our photographer mentioned that she is happy to capture everything I have in mind and to be sure to let her know. I of course will let her be the main judge for everything, but I will definitely give her ideas of what I am looking for and if there are any specific photos I would like. Ask if they wouldn't mind you jotting down the ideas you have, or if they would prefer to take lead on that.

One thing I loved about my photographer - She asked me if I had a Pinterest board started for our engagement shoot and I just shared it with her. We looked at images together that I had on there during the shoot and she came up with similar poses to the ones I had. That way she has her own input as the photographer, but also incorporating some of the things I was looking for!

I think you could make a list for yourself, but start with a conversation with your photographer.
See what they say, ask if they have list of photos they like to take or recommend taking.
I think having an extensive list with overly specific shots is what would be a problem but something like which relatives or details you think are most important to capture would probably be useful.

My photographer asked for a list and I was more than happy to oblige.

My photographer requested a list and for someone at the wedding to help gather people for pics ( siblings, family, etc)so that it goes quickly. I think it's just preference.

Our photographer specifically asked for the list! So its completely up to how your photographer works. However, if you want to have your own list on the side to make sure all the pictures you want are taken then that's fine too!

When we booked our photographer, the business gave us a huge checklist to review. A few weeks before the wedding, we met with our photographer to talk about the photos we wanted, the pictures locations, etc. We used their photo list as a starting point and then added on additional ones we wanted that were not on the list. We also crossed off a bunch we didn’t want. This meeting was super helpful to discuss the timeline and make sure we had a plan to get the pictures we wanted in the available time.

Talk to your photographer. I think it's fine if its the list of family members/variations of family portraits. I think it's rude if you tell them specific bridal shots to take, but making sure they get in laws, aunt and uncles, and those things I think is fine.

I think it is fine to give them a list, but I also think this should be asked when interviewing photographers. Some think they are "artists" and are capable of doing coffee table books. Unless you are Meaghan and Harry, I doubt it.