Weddings  >  Essentials  >  Part 3: Creating your wedding shot list

It's critical that you and your wedding photographer agree on the shots you want taken. You can print a complete checklist and share this list with your photographer. In the meantime, here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

Essentials
These are the photographs common to almost every wedding:

Attire. Besides the dress, shoes, hair and makeup, be sure to consider the personal touches. And let your photographer know if the bride is wearing her mother's veil, or the groom is carrying a special watch.

Pre-ceremony. If your wedding photographer specializes in the photojournalism style of shooting, the time before the ceremony provides great opportunities for candid shots. Be sure you know what might be photographed and communicate your comfort level upfront.

Ceremony. Make sure you know beforehand what your officiants allow during the ceremony. It's possible that no shots will be allowed, or that the officiants will be part of a re-enactment. If no flash is allowed, take account of lighting conditions.

Reception. Some images such as table shots have gone in and out of fashion, and some photographers don't shoot them unless you specifically ask. If your tables are themed, or have centerpieces that are meaningful to you, mention it to your photographer so pictures can be taken beforehand, and as your guests enjoy their significance.

Formal portraits. This standard has varying levels of popularity, as wedding photojournalism has become more trendy. Most couples still want at least a few formal portraits, so it's best to keep in mind the time it takes to set up and take these photos. Typically, it takes around 5 minutes for each shot; larger wedding parties can consume a large chunk of your reception time.

The nice-to-have
Think of these shots as the icing on the cake:

Bachelor parties and showers. These events are great ways to capture candid moments, and it's worth discussing with your wedding photographer. Some will include these in wedding packages, but you may have to ask for it as an a la carte item. If you aren't able to book your photographer, enlist your friends to take photographs.

Candids. Which candid shots are taken will depend on the type of photographer you book. Don't expect a photojournalistic style if your wedding photographer typically shoots in a traditional style. If you are keen on having candids that your wedding photographer can't take, then discuss having friends and family take photos in addition to the professional shots.

Wedding rehearsal. Coverage for this event is usually something the bride and groom must ask for specifically. Nevertheless, the rehearsal and following dinner is a great opportunity to capture candid images, especially those featuring the groom's family during the dinner.

After-wedding session. Having a photo shoot after the ceremony-whether it's the same day or months afterward-gives the couple a chance to relax and revel in their new marriage. Sometimes this session is called Trash the Dress, and it's growing in popularity (no matter what you call it!).

The getaway. Forget the jokes about the wedding getaway being like a Steve McQueen movie. Images of the bride and groom leaving their reception can be among the most meaningful. It symbolizes the new couple stepping into their new life; the poignancy as parents let their children go ... or it can be humorous, as happy exhaustion washes over everyone after an exciting celebration.

To start: Read through our suggested checklist for the shots you'll really want to get, and see how it matches your vision. You can download and print this checklist, and bring it when you make a shot list with your photographer.

Now that you've got your list, get ready to enjoy the day!

Creating a wedding photo book to use as a guest book is simple to make. Just leave every other page blank for your friends and family to write in their wishes and thoughts.

Preserve the magic of your wedding slideshow with our PhotoShow DVD. Choose from 6 styles, and customize with music, borders and special effects.

Share your wedding photos by creating a Shutterfly Share site for your bridal party or your entire wedding party. Communicate and share information all in one place, allowing everyone to view photos, calendars, messages, news and schedules.

Tell us your wedding stories!