Wedding Photography Checklist: Must-Have Shots for Your Edmonton Wedding

Planning your wedding photos can feel overwhelming, but having a solid checklist ensures nothing important is missed. As an experienced Edmonton wedding photographer, I’ve shot hundreds of weddings and know exactly which moments couples cherish most years later. This comprehensive checklist covers everything from getting ready to the reception—classic shots, emotional candids, and creative details.

Share this list with your photographer early (I always welcome it during planning!). We’ll customize it to your day, priorities, and style. Whether you’re having a traditional ceremony, intimate gathering, or outdoor celebration in Edmonton’s river valley, these shots will tell your complete love story.

Getting Ready Shots

These set the scene and capture the anticipation.

Bride’s dress hanging (on a nice hanger, with window light if possible)
Groom’s suit/tux details (tie, cufflinks, shoes)
Rings (individual and all three together—creative macro shots)
Invitation suite, save-the-dates, or signage
Jewelry, perfume, shoes, bouquet, and other accessories
Bride having hair and makeup done
Bridesmaids helping with dress, buttons, or zipper
Groom and groomsmen adjusting ties or boutonnieres
First look with dad/mom or parents
Candid laughter and champagne toasts with bridal party
Full-length portraits of bride and groom separately (before First Look)

First Look and Couple Portraits

One of the most emotional parts of the day.

Groom waiting (back turned or anticipation shots)
Bride approaching and tap on shoulder
Groom’s reaction as he turns (multiple angles)
Embrace, tears, laughter after the reveal
Romantic portraits: holding hands, foreheads touching, kissing
Walking together, spinning, dipping
Creative shots with venue backdrop or Edmonton scenery
Ring close-ups on hands
Silhouette or golden hour shots if timing allows

Wedding Party and Family Formals

Organized and quick—provide a list in advance!

Wedding Party

Full group with bride and groom
Bride with bridesmaids / Groom with groomsmen
Fun, candid poses (jumping, walking, laughing)
Individual portraits if desired

Family Formals (keep to 10–15 groupings for efficiency)

Bride + Groom with both immediate families
Bride + Groom with bride’s immediate family
Bride + Groom with groom’s immediate family
Bride + Groom with grandparents
Bride with parents / Groom with parents
Bride with siblings / Groom with siblings
Generations (bride with mom and grandma, etc.)
Any special combinations (step-parents, etc.)

Ceremony Details and Moments

Capture the heart of the day.

Venue decor (aisle, arch, florals, signage)
Guests arriving and being seated
Groom waiting at altar
Wedding party processional
Bride’s entrance and walk down aisle (with escort)
Groom’s reaction seeing bride
Wide shots of full ceremony scene
Vows (close-ups of faces and hands)
Ring exchange
First kiss (multiple angles)
Recessional (happy exit down aisle)
Confetti, bubbles, or exit celebration
Signing the register

Cocktail Hour and Reception Details

The celebration begins!

Venue reception decor (tables, centerpieces, cake, signage)
Cake or dessert table close-ups
Guest candids (mingling, signing guestbook)
Bride and groom entering reception
First dance (wide and close shots)
Parent dances (bride with dad, groom with mom)
Speeches and toasts (reactions are key!)
Cake cutting and feeding
Bouquet and garter toss (if doing them)
Open dance floor candids (fun, energetic moments)
Sparkler exit or grand send-off

Creative and Bonus Shots

These add personality and variety.

Black & white emotional moments
Detail flat lays (rings, flowers, invitations)
Night portraits with venue lights or off-camera flash
Sunset or golden hour couple shots (if timeline allows)
Pet inclusions (if your dog is part of the day!)
Cultural or religious traditions specific to you
Quiet moments alone as newlyweds

Tips for the Best Photos on Your Wedding Day

Timeline Buffer: Build in extra time for portraits—Edmonton weather and light change quickly.
First Look: Highly recommended for relaxed couple shots and more reception time with guests.
Family List: Prioritize and share in advance—name everyone to avoid confusion.
Unplugged Ceremony: Ask guests to put phones away for clear, emotional shots.
Detail Styling: Gather rings, invitations, and accessories in one spot early.
Golden Hour: Plan portraits around sunset for magical Edmonton light.
Trust Your Photographer: We’ll guide you naturally—no stiff posing needed.

This checklist is a starting point—we’ll tailor it during planning to match your vision, whether classic, candid, or creative. The best photos come from real moments, so relax, enjoy each other, and let the day unfold.

Planning your Edmonton wedding and want to make sure every moment is captured beautifully? I’d love to help. Reach out—we’ll create a personalized shot list and timeline that ensures your gallery tells your unique story.

Wedding Photography Checklist: Must-Have Shots for Your Edmonton Wedding