Chances are, you’ve been visualising your wedding day for a long time. From walking down the aisle and kissing at the altar, to leaving the church amid a hail of colourful confetti. Many moments from the day will live long in the memory.

These memories are so important, and your wedding photographer will know how to get the best shots to capture each moment. You probably already have your own ideas, so now’s the time to collaborate with your photographer, so that your wedding photos perfectly illustrate the magic of your wedding.

Here’s a guide to creating your wedding day shot list, with more than a little help from your photographer.

Leave out the obvious

Your photographer will know the traditional scenes – the walk down the aisle, the first kiss, the photos of the dress and the ring shots etc. – so save yourself time and omit the long list of standard shots that your photographer will already have in mind.

Think of the personal touches

If you know a family member is wearing a special dress or item of jewellery that has sentimental value, you’ll need to let your photographer know. These little touches are going to make your wedding day special, so you’ll want to capture them as keepsakes, to look back on in years to come.

Create a who’s who for the family photos

If your extended family is so large it could populate an entire country; then your photographer might need a little bit of extra help. A clearly defined family photo shot list will keep everything efficient and organised and will prevent things from running over, in terms of time.

Decide on the essential shots

If you have a vision of a specific image, tell your photographer! Maybe you want to create a homage to a photo from your parents’ or grandparents’ wedding. Perhaps you and your partner have a pose that means something to just the two of you. Include these on the shot list, so your photographer can fit them in among the standard photographs.

Don’t foget the unusual moments

If you’re planning something weird and wonderful, like a choreographed dance entrance down the aisle or an on-the-table musical number for a speech, get your photographer in on the act. These shots will need to be on the list, in order to capture them in all their offbeat glory.

Take the venue into account

If possible, take your photographer with you when you visit your wedding venue. Remember that teamwork and collaboration are critical – visualise your wedding taking place and ask your photographer for advice on how to maximise the venue’s beauty. While some key features will stand out, others may take some time to jump out at you. Either way, spend some time and effort getting to know your wedding venue while you create your shot list.

Let your imagination run wild, get excited and get inspired. After all, it’s going to be a day to remember!