My unobtrusive photography style is natural, candid and relaxed, but I also value the importance of the more traditional group photos. After all, these cherished photos with your VIPs will adorn mantelpieces and family photo albums for many years! But they don’t have to be super serious, stuffy and formal. I like to keep them informal, fun and relaxed.
I can't count the number of times I've had couples tell me how much they have dreaded the group photos before their wedding day, to then go on to thank me afterwards for making the process quick and efficient. So what's the secret? Read on for my top tips on how to have a stress-free group photo experience on your wedding day!
1. Make a list
This is the most important tip! Before the wedding day, I always ask my couples to compile a list of the group photos they would like to be taken. Sharing this list with your photographer ensures no important shots or people are missed. Having a list on hand will also alleviate the stress of remembering who you've already had a photo with. You don't need to give your photographer a list of every little moment you would like photographed on the day. Your photographer will handle standard wedding moments like the first kiss, cake cutting, and first dance.
2. Organise the running order
My second tip is to organise the list into a strategic running order which helps streamline the group photo process and minimize time spent posing. By arranging the group list efficiently, you avoid having the same individuals return multiple times for different shots, allowing them to get back to enjoying the celebration sooner. I typically begin with larger groups, such as all guests and extended family, and then transition to smaller immediate family groups, finishing with the wedding party photos.
3. Allow enough time
When planning your wedding day timeline, allocate enough time for the group photos - they often take longer than anticipated! Rushing through group shots can add unnecessary stress to your special day. Most people will allocate time during the drinks reception for group photos. But be practical with the amount of photos and time you allow - having a list of more than 30 group photos to get through, plus couple portraits, with only a 30-minute window between the ceremony and the food, is just not practical or doable! How long they take, really depends on the size of your list. Each group arrangement typically takes a few minutes, and the time can quickly accumulate. With this in mind, I recommend keeping your list down to no more than 10-15 different groups. To give you an idea, a list of around 10 would normally take around half an hour to complete. Also, keep in mind that the more time spend on group photos, the less time you will have to spend with your guests!
4. Assign Helpers
Assigning someone from your wedding party or a family member to help gather guests for the group photos is a big help. Someone familiar with your VIP guests and who has a loud voice can be a valuable asset. On a wedding day, I provide a spare copy of the group photo list to the designated helper. While I capture one group shot, they can gather guests for the next one. This collaborative approach helps to get through the list quickly and efficiently.
5. Tell your guests about the list!
Ensure that your VIP guests, such as parents and grandparents, are made aware you've prepared a specific list of priority group photos for your photographer to take during the designated time. Emphasise that the priority is capturing the photo most important to you and your partner. I’ve had awkward moments at weddings where guests (mostly parents!) have asked for other group photos that aren't on the list or want to add extra people to a group arrangement. Not only does this eat into your allocated time and delay getting to the other photos, but it also causes confusion and potentially means your most important people might be missed. For me, the wedding couples list of requested group photos always takes priority, followed by couple portraits. You can reassure your guests that there will be opportunities for less formal group photos later in the day.
Keep in mind this is my approach for taking group photos on a wedding day. Many other photographers take a similar approach, but it's worth discussing specific plans for group photos with your chosen photographer before your wedding.
I hope this post has provided you with valuable tips. Group photos don't have to be your least favourite part of the day! With proper planning and a relaxed approach, capturing group photos can be a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. By following the tips in this guide you can ensure that the group photo session enhances rather than detracts from your wedding day celebrations.
