How to Create a Wedding Photo Shotlist at a Unique Wedding Venue

No two couples are alike, so a standard wedding photography checklist will not meet everyone’s needs.  Also, every venue is different, and Catalyst Ranch prides itself on being very different with our color-splashed walls, vintage furnishings, and eclectic artwork from around the world.

Of course, your wedding day is something you’ll want to remember and share with your loved ones.  So, hiring an excellent photographer and preparing for photo opportunities is of the utmost importance!  Your photographer is there to capture all of the emotions and excitement, all of the romantic, funny, and unexpected moments on your wedding day!  Provide your photographer with a shot list of must-have photos.  Make sure you are on the same page well before the wedding; then you’ll have peace of mind, knowing that your photographer is ready to catch every magical moment on camera!

Even if you are having the most non-traditional wedding, you may still want to capture some of the classic wedding shots, including:

• The Dress
• The Rings
• Bridesmaids getting ready
• Groomsmen getting ready
• Mother of the Bride or the Maid of Honor zipping or buttoning the bride’s dress
• Ceremony Venue (before and during the ceremony)
• Reception Venue (before and during the reception – especially shots of everyone getting down on the dance floor!)
• Stills of Table Settings, Floral Arrangements, Favors, etc.

• Family Shots (Feel free include your pets if they are attending or part of the bridal party!)
• The Cake

• The Dances
• The Toasts (People giving the toasts AND the couples’ reactions)
• Candid Shots of the happy couple kissing and canoodling

How can you make the most of your unique wedding venue?  A lot of thought goes into selecting the perfect wedding venue, so while people are going to be the main focus of your photos, be sure to capture all of the beautiful backdrops that were part of your wedding celebration.   For instance, there is no reason for all of the family portraits to be in a single spot.  Choose two or three areas and mix it up a bit!

Let the space inspire you.  Go with the flow if your photographer can envision an amazing shot.  You can also plan a few funky photo ops in advance.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• The Entrance to the Venue.  You can also take pictures of any unique signage bearing the names of the Bride and Groom.

• Props!  If you are lucky enough to have your reception in a whimsical, playful space like Catalyst Ranch, there will be plenty of interesting objects on hand for you to incorporate into your photos.

Photo by Erica Barraca www.ericabarracaphotography.com

• Mirrors.  Mirrors and other decorative elements like curtains and light fixtures can inspire some unorthodox shots.

• Unique Furniture.  Add variety and levels by adding furniture and posing on it.

Whether you are getting married in a grand ballroom, a remote mountain top, or a cool loft building, take advantage of all of the opportunities to record your memories.  Collaborate with your photographer on your absolute must-have shot list.  Be open to new inspiration once you are in the venue.  If a particular color or exposed brick wall inspires you or your photographer, find your light and smile, baby!

 Guest blogger Arin Mulvaney is the Client Liaison and Social Media Sorceress at Catalyst Ranch.  She loves coming to a cheerful, colorful workplace where creativity is fostered and celebrated rather than swept under the beige corporate rug.  Share your wonderful and wild wedding ideas with us on Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter!