9 Things to Share With Your Photographer for Better Photos

1) Your Top 3 Photo Priorities

Start with what you care about most. Examples:

• candid moments + real reactions
• romantic couple portraits
• detail shots (dress, rings, décor)
• party/dance floor energy

Why it helps: Your photographer will put their attention where it counts—especially if the timeline gets tight.

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2) Family Dynamics (The “Please Don’t Make It Awkward” Info)

This one is huge. Tell them:

• divorced parents (and who shouldn’t be paired)
• strained relationships / no-contact situations
• recent loss (sensitive people or moments)

Why it helps: It prevents uncomfortable questions during family formals and keeps portraits smooth.

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3) A Realistic Timeline (Not the “Perfect” Timeline)

Your photographer needs to know when things happen and how long you’ve actually set aside for photos:

• getting ready location(s)
• first look (or no first look)
• travel time between venues
• ceremony start time
• sunset time (if you want golden-hour portraits)
• reception events (entrance, toasts, dances, cake, etc.)

Why it helps: Great photos are often about being in the right place 5 minutes early.

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4) Your Must-Have People (VIP List)

Instead of a massive shot list, make a simple “VIP” list:

• grandparents
• closest friends
• siblings
• mentor/relative you’re especially close to

Pro tip: Add a quick note like “Please get at least one photo of us with ___.”

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5) Family Groupings for Formal Photos

Family photos can eat up time if no one knows where to stand.

Send a short list like:

• Couple + both sets of parents
• Couple + each parent separately
• Couple + siblings
• Couple + grandparents

Why it helps: A straightforward family grouping list keeps formals efficient and prevents chaos.

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6) Any Heirlooms, Details, or “Sentimental Items”

Photographers love meaningful details—but only if they know they exist:

• heirloom jewelry
• a note from a parent
• memorial charms
• custom vows
• special decor or cultural items

Quick win: Put these items in one box/bag in the morning so nothing gets lost.

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7) Lighting or Venue Restrictions (That Can Affect Photos)

Tell them if you have:

• a dim church
• “no flash allowed” rules
• outdoor ceremony with harsh sun
• tight getting-ready rooms
• rain plan location

Why it helps: Your photographer can plan lenses, lighting, and positioning ahead of time.

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8) Your Comfort Level in Front of the Camera

Be honest:

• “We feel awkward posing.”
• “We want mostly candid.”
• “We want guidance—tell us what to do with our hands.”

A pro can adapt their approach, give natural prompts, and help you look relaxed.

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9) Your “No-Go” Photos (Yes, This Is Allowed)

It’s okay to say what you don’t want:

• certain angles
• heavy filters
• overly posed shots
• photos of guests drinking heavily
• photos posted online without approval

Also clarify privacy expectations: can the photographer share your images on social media? (Some couples prefer “ask first.”)