Can we request specific shots from our wedding photographer?

As a wedding photographer, this is a question I get asked all the time, and the short answer is: yes, absolutely… with a little guidance.

Your wedding photos should reflect you– your people, your personalities, and the moments that matter most. So if there are specific shots you’d love, it’s always worth sharing them with your wedding photographer. In fact, having a clear idea of your priorities can really help shape how the day is photographed.

Family groups and must-have moments

The most common requests tend to be family group photos, and I always encourage couples to think about these in advance. Creating a simple list before the wedding helps keep things organised and ensures no one important gets missed. It also means we can move through group shots efficiently, leaving you more time to actually enjoy your day.

Beyond that, some couples have meaningful moments they’d like captured, perhaps with a grandparent, a close friend, or something sentimental. These are always welcomed and treated with care.

Candid vs. planned

While posed photos have their place, a lot of what I do focuses on natural, candid moments- the laughter, the reactions, the in-between bits that often end up being the most treasured.

That said, I also LOVE creative wedding photography (in fact, I won an award for Creative Wedding Photographer of the Year!) So if there are some creative shots you’ve seen and love- whether that’s a particular pose, a romantic portrait idea, or something a bit more editorial- I’m always happy to chat about how we can incorporate that in a way that still feels authentic to you.

Props, pets, and personal touches

Weddings are becoming more and more personal, which I absolutely love. Whether it’s smoke bombs, drones, or including your pet dog in your photos, these elements can add something really special.

The key is planning. Some props (like smoke bombs or drones) may depend on venue permissions, weather, or timing, so it’s always best to discuss these ideas with your wedding photographer in advance. That way, we can make sure everything runs smoothly and safely on the day. I’ve worked as a wedding photographer in Cheshire and North Wales for over 20 years, and am lucky to have worked at most of the region’s wedding venues, so if you need advice on venue permissions I am usually able to advise.

As a wedding photographer, how do you handle guest photos?

Another common concern is whether guests taking photos will get in the way.

In most cases, it’s not a problem at all- guests capturing moments on their phones can actually add to the atmosphere. However, during key parts of the day (like the ceremony or group photos), it can sometimes become a distraction or block important shots.

I always handle this gently and professionally. If needed, I’ll guide guests into position or ask for a quick moment to ensure we get the photos you’ve asked for. Some couples also choose to have an “unplugged” ceremony, which can help keep the focus on the moment itself.

Ultimately, my role as your wedding photographer is to make sure everything runs smoothly while capturing your day as it naturally unfolds, so you get the photos you’ve dreamed of, without the stress.

Finding the right balance

The most important thing is balance. A long list of very specific shots can sometimes take you out of your day, rather than letting you enjoy it. My approach is to work with you beforehand, understanding what matters most, then blending those requests naturally into the flow of the day without it feeling staged or forced.

Wedding photographer in Cheshire and North Wales

I’m a professional wedding photographer in Cheshire and North Wales and I would love to hear more about your wedding plans! If you’re getting married and looking for a wedding photographer drop me a line and let’s chat about your day.