A little intention goes a long way. This page will guide you through the simple steps that help everything feel smooth so you can step into your day feeling confident and ready.

Photo Prep

Family Photos

My goal is to capture these important images as beautifully and efficiently as possible. Clear communication and planning make all the difference. We will schedule 45 minutes for family formal portraits, and I ask that all family members are in the church or designated space at the agreed start time. We typically begin with the bride’s family, or whichever side is ready first, starting with the largest groupings and working our way down. On the wedding day I will direct the entire process so everything flows smoothly.

Below is an example of the typical order:

Couple with maternal grandparents
Couple with paternal grandparents
Couple with bride’s parents, bride’s siblings, bride’s siblings’ spouses with their children
Couple with bride’s siblings and siblings’ spouses
Bride with parents and siblings
Bride with siblings
Couple with parents
Bride with parents
Bride with mom
Bride with dad
Photo of mom and dad

This helps me understand all the groupings ahead of time so I can move quickly and confidently through the list, knowing exactly who belongs where. We will also talk through any sensitive situations such as divorce, remarriages, special needs, or accessibility considerations and how you would like those handled. Everything is discussed beforehand so on the wedding day you can simply soak it in while I manage the groupings and guide the process.

Most of the time, family photos take place in front of the altar unless we have agreed on an outdoor location. Inside the church is often the easiest option. We can use the steps for larger groupings, pews allow family to sit comfortably while they wait, and we do not have to worry about wind or weather. I also bring lighting equipment so no matter the church, you will be beautifully and properly lit.

In most cases, we complete family photos before the ceremony. This allows family members, especially children, to fully enjoy cocktail hour and mingle with guests afterward. If you choose not to do a first look, I ask that family remain in their pews after the ceremony so we can begin portraits right away as guests exit the church.

On your Timeline and Details Google Doc, there is space to list your family members and their relationship to you.

Gathering the details

The scheduled family formal time includes immediate family and grandparents. It does not include extended groupings such as “The entire Smith side” or “All the Carlson cousins.” If extended family photos are important to you, we will intentionally build time for them.

Typically, the best options are immediately after the ceremony at the church, during cocktail hour, or later in the reception once the dance floor opens. Once we choose the best timing, please communicate the plan, meeting location, and expectations clearly to the family members involved. If you would like to add a few smaller groupings during immediate family time, simply add them to the Family Formals document and keep them concise, such as “Couple with Aunt Bev and Uncle Henry” or “Bride with Godparents.”

Extended Family Photos

You chose your wedding party for a reason, and I cannot wait to capture the joy of everyone together. We will photograph a mix of classic portraits, fun group moments, just the girls, just the guys, and individual images of each of you with every member of your wedding party. It will feel organized and joyful, never stiff or forced.

Depending on your timeline, weather, and whether children are included, we may photograph formal wedding party portraits in the church before the ceremony. This is especially helpful when flower girls or ring bearers are involved so they do not need to stay for additional photos afterward. After the ceremony, we will head to the venue or another location for more relaxed, celebratory images. The church portraits capture the timeless, classic shots. The after-ceremony photos are more natural and playful, and children are not required for this portion.

the Wedding Party

It is often your first quiet moment together as a married couple. A chance to breathe. To take it all in. To be present. It also happens during the most beautiful light of the day, giving you romantic, glowing images that feel timeless. For weddings from October through April, sunset often happens during cocktail hour or dinner. For May through September weddings, we will briefly step away from the reception. We only need about 10 to 15 minutes. Then you head right back to the celebration.

Most couples say sneaking away for sunset portraits was one of their favorite parts of the day.

Sunset Portraits

After photographing over 100 weddings across more than 10 years, I have a strong sense of what matters most and what moments need to be captured. My approach blends gently directed portraits with constant awareness of the candid, in-between moments happening all around us.

If there is something truly unique or cannot be missed, such as a family heirloom, surprise dance, or special guest, please let me know ahead of time. I never want to miss something meaningful to you. Otherwise, a detailed shot list is unnecessary. I have you covered. I always encourage couples to look through full wedding galleries so you can see how I document a complete day. If you see something you love or something specific you would like included, just tell me. I am happy to make note of it.

The short answer is no.

Do You Need a Shot List?

I take a balanced approach. We make time for classic portraits and family formals while also documenting your day as it naturally unfolds. I focus on natural light whenever possible and am fully prepared for dark churches or unique reception spaces.

I care deeply about genuine connection while confidently directing formal photos and guiding your family. I arrive prepared, calm, and ready to serve you with positive energy and steady leadership. The goal is always clean, classic images that still feel full of emotion and personality. With over a decade of experience, I have seen it all. I come ready for anything, so you can feel supported from start to finish.