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Wedding day photography checklist - to remember your perfect Kent wedding

Writer's picture: Bella LuceBella Luce

We understand the initial skepticism - "Do I truly need a wedding photo checklist?" The emphatic answer is yes, but there's no need to keep it close and continually reference it throughout the day! Instead, entrust your wedding photo checklist to your photographer. This ensures they're fully aware of your desired shots, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the festivities, confident that every important moment is being captured professionally. By doing so, you sidestep the common pitfall where, months down the line, couples lament the absence of key photographs with loved ones like Aunty Mary, childhood friend Jen, or Grandad.

Wedding couple with beautiful landscape
Wedding couple with beautiful landscape

Every photographer has their own style and preferences, so discussing your checklist with them ensures that they can tailor their approach to meet your expectations. Whether it's capturing candid moments or setting up specific shots, communication is key to achieving the desired results.

And don't forget, while the checklist serves as a guide, it's also flexible. You may have unique ideas or special requests that aren't included in a standard list, so feel free to customise it to reflect your individuality.


couple's love blossoms in the serene surroundings of a Kentish garden, creating a scene of timeless beauty and tranquility
"Garden Splendor: Amongst vibrant blooms and lush greenery, the couple's love blossoms in the serene surroundings of a Kentish garden, creating a scene of timeless beauty and tranquility. #KentGarden #GardenWedding

We've compiled a convenient list to serve as a foundation, available for download in a user-friendly format below. However, it's beneficial to ponder any additional shots you wish to include. Perhaps you envision a group portrait with your college friends, a captivating photograph showcasing the intricate signage crafted by your bridesmaid, a spontaneous snapshot capturing the merriment within the DIY photobooth, or a snapshot of the meticulously crafted table plan you devoted hours to perfecting. These personalized touches enrich the tapestry of your wedding album, preserving cherished memories beyond the conventional shots. Certainly, not all of these shots may align with your wedding day itinerary or guest list, and some may be more relevant to you and your partner. Consider this list as a flexible template, meant to be customized and expanded based on your preferences and unique circumstances. We're providing a comprehensive foundation, but feel free to tailor it to suit your specific vision and requirements. Our goal is to ensure that every aspect of your special day is considered, offering a robust framework for capturing memories that resonate with you.

rustic beauty of a Kentish barn, the couple's love shines bright
Rustic Elegance: Amidst the rustic beauty of a Kentish barn, the couple's love shines bright, blending rustic charm with timeless elegance for a wedding day filled with warmth and joy #KentBarn #RusticElegance

Before the Big Day Engagement Shoot/Love Shoot - this is a great opportunity to get comfortable in front of the camera and get to know your photographer.

Wedding Day: Pre-Ceremony Wedding Photo Checklist

Getting Ready

  • Shot of wedding invitation

  • Bride(s) and bridesmaids/man getting their hair and makeup done

  • Dress hanging, jewellery laid out, shoes etc

  • Bouquets and buttonholes/corsages Flatlay of flowers, stationery, accessories, ring and shoes Bride(s) putting on dress/veil with help from mother of the bride or bridesmaids

  • Bridal party having fun or sharing a toast

  • Close up of dress details

  • Putting on veil

  • Putting on jewellery

  • Putting on shoes

  • Close up of bride holding bouquet

  • Mother and bride portrait

  • Father and bride portrait

  • Family shots Bride(s) spending moment alone in full look

  • Bridal party walking down stairs/leaving the house

  • Bride and father in wedding car/walking to ceremony

  • Groom(s) and groomsmen getting ready

  • Groom(s) spending moment alone

  • Groom's party having a pint Wedding ring shots


where every moment is a treasure waiting to be found
Hidden Gems: wedding venues in Kent, where every moment is a treasure waiting to be found. #KentLandscapes #HiddenGems

First Look While entirely optional, the "First Look" has become a cherished tradition for many couples. It offers a precious opportunity to share intimate moments before the ceremony, easing nerves and strengthening bonds. It's no wonder why couples often enlist their wedding photographer to immortalize this tender exchange. Our post on First Look Photos offers a comprehensive exploration of this heartfelt practice.

Yet, the allure of the first look extends beyond couples. We've been moved countless times by the emotional reactions captured in first-look photos featuring the bride and her father, grandparents, or children. These snapshots encapsulate genuine emotions and tender connections, making them invaluable additions to any wedding album.

Bridal Bonding: With laughter and joy, the bride and her bridesmaids share a moment of camaraderie
Bridal Bonding: With laughter and joy, the bride and her bridesmaids share a moment of camaraderie, their friendship shining as brightly as their smiles against the scenic backdrop of Kent. #KentWedding #BridalParty
  • Couple alone for first look

  • Bridal party reaction if couple enter together

  • Father of the bride Grandfather/parents of the bride

  • Prank first look (groomsman dressed as bride)

  • Children of the bride first look

  • Mother of the groom first look

  • The Trip to the Ceremony/Venue

  • Bride(s) and father/mother Bride(s) and bridesmaids/man/flower girls/page boys

  • Groom(s) and groomsmen/page boys

  • Shot of the wedding car or other transport


quiet reflection on a candid photograph
Pre-Wedding Prep: Amidst the hustle and bustle of getting ready, the bride and her Flower girl share a moment of quiet reflection, their excitement palpable as they prepare for the magical Kent wedding day. #BridalPrep #KentWedding

Wedding Day: Wedding Ceremony Photo Checklist

Some churches prefer not to have photos during the ceremony, particularly within the mass, so check with your celebrant in advance to see what their policy is.


  • Shots of empty venue/church, including altar, flowers, interior and exterior details

  • Groom and groomsmen waiting inside venue/church

  • Guests outside and inside church Ushers handing out program

  • Bride(s) arriving in wedding car

  • Bride(s) stepping out of car

  • Bride(s) and bridesmaids at back of venue/church

  • Bridal party entrance Bride(s)/Groom(s) walking up the aisle

  • Groom's reaction

  • Father/mother/relative giving bride away

  • Exchanging of vows Lighting of unity candle

  • Ring bearer

  • Exchanging of the rings


Cherished Moments captured between the bride and father of the bride by kent wedding photographer
Cherished Moments: With shared laughter and heartfelt embraces, the bride and her father create memories to last a lifetime, their bond growing stronger amidst the beauty of Kent's countryside. #KentMemories #BridalPartyLove
  • Participants such as readers, the officiant, musicians etc.

  • The first kiss as a married couple, and the moment after Signing the register

  • View of guests from the front

  • The recessional/couple walking back down the aisle

  • The recessional/couple walking back down the aisle from balcony

  • Newlywed shot

  • Confetti throwing

  • Greeting guests outside venue

  • Couple in the back seat of wedding car

Kent Romance captured by Kent wedding photographer
Kent Romance: Against the backdrop of Kent's scenic countryside, the newlyweds share a tender moment, their love blossoming amidst the beauty of nature. #KentWedding #CountrysideRomance

Wedding Day: Post-Ceremony Wedding Photo Checklist

After the ceremony, many couples allocate time for their wedding portraits. While it's increasingly common for couples who opt for a First Look to have their portraits taken before the ceremony, others choose to schedule them afterward. Regardless of timing, your portrait session typically lasts between 40 minutes to two hours, contingent upon the location and desired shots. Should time be of the essence, it's advisable to communicate your priorities with your photographer.

Preparing a comprehensive list of individuals and specific group combinations you wish to include in your portraits is essential. Additionally, enlisting a trusted friend outside of the bridal party to assist the photographer in organizing and gathering individuals can streamline the process and ensure no one is overlooked.


Historic Elegance: In the timeless setting of a Kentish manor
Historic Elegance: In the timeless setting of a Kentish manor, the couple's love story unfolds, blending the rich history of the venue with the promise of a future together. #KentManor #HistoricElegance

Couple Shots

  • Portraits of the couple alone

  • Portraits of bride (s)/groom (s) on their own

Bridal Party

  • Couple with bridesmaids/groomsmen

  • Couple with entire wedding party

  • Bride(s) with bridesmaids/maid of honour

  • Groom(s) and groomsmen/best man

  • Couple with any children in the wedding party

  • Couple with any pets at wedding

everyone is included in the wedding photos, even the family dog!
Family Ties: Laughter, joy, and shared memories as the newlyweds embrace their loved ones, marking the beginning of a new family bond (including the family dog!). #FamilyLove #WeddingMemories

Family

  • Couple with each of each set of parents

  • Couple with both sets of parents

  • Couple with siblings Couple with their children

  • Couple with close family members

Informal shots

  • Shots with friends

  • Shots of guests eating, drinking, and chatting

  • Any specific groups of friends, eg. college pals, school mates, team mates

Kent wedding photographer capturing candid moments of the wedding party
pirited Celebration: Joyful laughter fills the air as friends and family come together to celebrate the newlyweds, creating memories that will last a lifetime. #WeddingCelebration #JoyfulMoments

Wedding Day: Wedding Reception Photo Checklist

On your wedding day, capturing the essence of your reception is essential. If someone has contributed to your reception's decor or amenities—whether it's a friend who baked the cake or an aunt who crafted the bunting—it's a thoughtful gesture to include these elements on your photo checklist. By doing so, you can ensure that you have photographs to commemorate their meaningful contributions and express your gratitude for their efforts.


  • The reception space set up, before room fills up

  • Details and room decor shots, including table settings, place cards, favours, centrepieces etc. Wedding cake detail shots

  • Couple arriving

  • Toasts and speeches

  • Entertainment (magicians, dancers etc)

  • Cutting the cake

  • Champagne tower pour

  • The first dance

  • Bride(s) dancing with father/groom(s) dancing with mother

  • Couple mingling with guests

  • Guests dancing Musicians, singers, wedding band and DJ

  • Throwing the bouquet

  • Taking off the garter

  • Sparkler send-off


Securing the wedding photographs of your dreams hinges on finding a wedding photographer whose work and style resonate with you. Thus, dedicating time and effort to this search is crucial. Our curated list of recommended wedding photographers serves as an excellent starting point in your quest. Additionally, we offer a plethora of valuable tips on selecting the perfect photographer for your special day in our comprehensive guide.

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