Wedding Group photos – A guide for how to get those wedding group shots

As a Midland Wedding Photographer I often get asked about Wedding Group photos, how do you get the, timeline them, arrange them etc! It is such an important memory for parents and close family, and handled correctly can be great, interesting and beautiful wedding photography.

Handled badly and they can be boring, time draining, soul destroying and a source of a lot of frustration on the wedding day.

After your there to celebrate and have fun, not stand around bored waiting for people to finish their conversations so they can join you for a group photo. So heres` a handy guide for how to get those wedding group shots and not lose your minds in the process.

1 – Plan!

Obviously, you`ll want photos with various people during the day, and as a documentary wedding photographer I often keep these formal photos to a minimum.

In advance of the wedding, I speak with the couple and ask them to identify who is important to them what that relationship is, and any issues that may happen during the shoot.

It is important for us as photographers to understand the dynamic between families, and to know if there`s anybody with mobility issues that need to be considered.

I usually have a shot list on the day, with everybody’s name on, and arranged into a natural shooting order. Keeps everything tidy and quick.

2 – Warn people.

Once we know who’s going to be in the photos I always advice that you warn them in advance, telling them the location and time of these important portraits. Some venues like Dodford Manor have great internal courtyards that are perfect for these photo sessions. Keeping everybody informed is key.

3 – Ushers

It’s a really good idea to rope in ushers during this time to collect people we need and means we can keep shooting without acting like shepherds collecting up tipsy sheep!

4 – Keep it simple.

Do not overthink it, do not overdo it. Except that despite the best plans something may go wrong, so just roll with the punches and do not forget to smile!

5 – Think outside the box.

I always try to shoot these family portraits in lovely locations, well lit or evenly lit, and will always try to encourage couples to experiment with the younger family members and move away from the traditional formal portraits.

6 – Do not look at the camera.

After all, its not about me, it’s about you!!!!!