HOW TO PLAN YOUR GROUP PHOTOS.

FOR A STRESS -FREE & FUN EXPERIENCE

We've all gone to a wedding or heard stories of group photographs that took hours and hours. After these two hours, the bride and groom will vanish for another hour or so. That is not a fun or relaxing experience for me. I feel there should be a fair balance between getting all of the crucial images and having a wonderful time during your wedding. So, how can you arrange your group photographs without becoming overwhelmed? Right! ALL OF THIS REQUIRES AHEAD PLANNING

PLANNING BEFORE THE BIG DAY

As a storytelling wedding photographer, I am concerned with the ambiance and vibe of your wedding. Natural photographs have more worth in my opinion since you recall how you felt when you took them, but I also recognize the importance of formal group shots. These are photographs that you may wish to frame or include in your family album. My goal is to give you the greatest possible experience so that you recall the wonderful feelings when looking at your images, but we must work together to achieve this.

  1. Meet in person or through Skype to discuss what combination of group photographs is most meaningful to you.

  2. Don't ask your family members to help you with your list of group photographs. Your list will end up getting like a 400-page book.

  3. For your group photographs, select the closest people of your family and friends.

  4. Request the assistance of two persons in organizing these group pictures. They must have a strong voice and be familiar with all sides of your family.

  5. Make sure to contact all of the guests before the wedding to let them know when and where they need to be.

Recommended Family Photo Shoot List for Your Wedding Day

Here are some group shot ideas that you can modify to suit your needs.

Bride’s Side

  • Bride with mom

  • Bride with dad

  • Bride with both parents

  • Bride and groom with bride’s parents

  • Bride and groom with bride’s immediate family (bride’s parents, siblings, and siblings’ spouses and children)

  • Bride and groom with bride’s maternal grandparents

  • Bride and groom with bride’s paternal grandparents

Groom’s Side

  • Groom with mom

  • Groom with dad

  • Groom with both parents

  • Groom and bride with groom’s parents

  • Groom and bride with groom’s immediate family (groom’s parents, siblings, and siblings’ spouses and children)

  • Groom and bride with groom’s maternal grandparents

  • Groom and bride with groom’s paternal grandparents

Both Sides

  • Bride and groom with both sets of parents

HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU NEED FOR GROUP SHOTS

I intend to capture formal group photographs in 20-30 minutes. Sometimes it takes 40 minutes, although it is mainly due to waiting for guests. That is why it is critical to notify everyone of when and where they must be.

If your ceremony and reception are at different locations, don't forget to provide extra time for travel.