Choose an event type, add the moments and people that matter, and rank each as must-have, useful or optional. Add any restrictions, such as people who prefer not to be photographed. The result is a short checklist you can attach to your brief. It lists priorities and does not promise every shot.
What this builder produces
It gives you a ranked checklist for your event. Presets for common event types offer a starting set of moments, and all presets use the same method. You then edit the list to match your day.
Each item is ranked as must-have, useful or optional. Must-have items shape the plan. Useful items are covered when the day allows. Optional items are a bonus. The ranking helps the team decide where to stand when two things happen close together.
How to use it
- Pick the preset closest to your event, or start from a blank list.
- Remove anything that does not apply and add moments that do.
- Add the people who matter, by role or by name.
- Rank every item.
- Add restrictions, such as areas or people to avoid.
- Copy the list or attach it to your brief.
If you have no idea what to put on it, our guide on defining essential photographs when you have no shot list offers a way to start.
Reading the result
Count your must-haves. If there are more than ten, ask which of them really cannot be missed. When several people disagree, our guide on agreeing priorities with several decision-makers helps.
Our guide to must-have moments and flexible storytelling explains why a short list works better than a long one. For identifying key people without collecting guest data you do not need, see identifying key people.
What to do next
If your list includes formal groups, plan them with the group photograph planner. Then add the list to your brief in the event photography brief builder.
Assumptions and limits
The builder organises what you enter. It cannot predict which moments will happen or when. No list can promise every photograph, and the team confirms the plan in writing for your event. Names and notes are optional and stay in your browser unless you choose to save them on this device.
Attach the list to your brief and send it to us. We will reply with what we can plan around, and any item that needs a decision before the day.
Send our priority photo listCommon questions
How long should the list be?
Shorter is better. A list of five to ten must-have items gives the team a clear focus. A very long list makes every item feel equal and is harder to plan around.
Does a must-have item guarantee that photograph?
It guarantees that the team knows it matters and plans around it. Events are live and some moments cannot be repeated, so we confirm in writing how we will cover each priority.
Can I list people by name?
Names are optional. Roles such as the host, the eldest relative or the guest of honour usually work well. Use names only for those you are happy to share.
What are restrictions for?
They record anything the team should avoid: people who prefer not to be photographed, areas that are off limits, or moments that should stay private. Share only what you want the team to know.
Send our priority photo list
Attach the list to your brief and send it to us. We will reply with what we can plan around, and any item that needs a decision before the day.
What happens next: You send your event details on WhatsApp. Our team reads the brief, asks what is missing, then confirms in writing whether the date, venue and coverage can be booked, with a quotation. Opening WhatsApp does not send anything, and a message is not a booking until both sides confirm.
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