Just because we are non posey, natural, documentary wedding photographers it doesn’t mean that we don’t do family formal photos. They are a bit of a love-hate thing when it comes to weddings. Many of our couples choose not to have any but some couples still want them. They’re an important legacy—something your parents, grandparents, and even future generations will look back on. But let’s be honest: standing around for hour or so while everyone else is enjoying canapés and cocktails isn’t exactly the highlight of any wedding day because wedding day is not photoshoot. So we want to help with that.
What do traditional group photos actually tell us? We see what people looked like, what they wore, and sense of fashion and era. But do we learn who people were? Their quirks, personalities, and relationships? Not really. That said, formal family photos still hold an important place—they create a legacy for family. But they’re not about personality; they’re about history. We however also trying to bring personalities when “in between ” formal photo is taken.
As a documentary wedding photographers, we don’t want family group photos to be stressful. With a bit of planning, they can be quick & meaningful. Here’s how:
1. Decide Who You Actually Want in the Group Photos
Here’s the thing: you don’t need every aunt, cousin, or second uncle in your family photos. Focus on the people who mean the most to you, who will print and frame that photo. Parents, grandparents, siblings, and anyone else you couldn’t imagine your wedding day without. Group of uni friends photo? We can grab that more casual. Saying that if you have specific auntie , uncle add them to the main list.
Make a list of these must-have groupings ahead of time. Think about who will treasure these photos most and be intentional. A smaller list also means less time standing around and more time enjoying your day. And remember that smaller groups are easier to manage and look better, we prefer take more photos but in smaller groups. Give that list to person in charge(see next point)
Sample of small list
- Couple with each set of parents (2 photos or more if there is specific family dynamics)
- Couple with siblings and parents(again can be split into separate sets)
- Couple with each set of grandparents
- Couple with each side of the family
- Couple and wedding party
2. Have Someone Who Knows Your Family
No photographer know your family as well as you do, so I’ll need a little help! Pick someone—a family friend, bridesmaid, or best man—who knows who’s who and can help gather people for the photos.
This person should be organised and familiar with your guest list. A gentle wrangler, not a drill sergeant. This helps keep everything running smoothly while you relax and enjoy yourself. Makes it much easier than shouting names across the venue.
3. When to Take Family Photos
Ideally, family photos shouldn’t happen right after the ceremony. Why? Because this is your moment to dive in the just-married joy! Take time to hug your loved ones, soak up the congratulations, and enjoy a drink or two with canapés. Rushing off for photos at this point can kill the vibe and you might miss out on canapés you carefully chosen.
Instead, plan to do them before the meal. By then, the initial buzz has settled, everyone is present, and you can tick the group shots off without cutting into precious mingling time.
However, there are exceptions. Some venues have specific restrictions or iconic spots that are only available immediately after the ceremony. For example, at Old Marylebone Town Hall, you have just 15 minutes to use the grand staircase before everyone must move on. In those cases, we’ll need to act fast—focus is key, hugs come later. These moments are rare but manageable with the right preparation.
4. Communicate Clearly
Let your family know in advance that they’ll be needed for group photos. A simple note on the back of your order of service—something like, “Family Photos: Parents, Grandparents, Siblings ”—can work wonders. You can add names to make it even easier.
Being specific avoids confusion and makes everything run smoother. Plus, no one feels awkward wondering if they’re supposed to be in a photo.
5. Legacy Photos Matter (Even If They’re Not Glamorous)
Gentle reminder- family photos are the ones your parents will proudly display, your grandparents will keep on their bedside tables, and your kids or nieces or nephews will one day to figure out who’s who.
6. The Real Gold Is in the Natural Moments
Back to what we LOVE. The best photos are not posed ones. It’s the natural, unscripted ones that make you feel, that reminds you characteristics of the person in the photo.
These are the photos you’ll truly fall in love with because they tell a story. They’re not just about what people looked like; they’re about who they were.
7. Keep It Fun and Stress-Free
Even tho this guide seems a bit bossy family photos don’t have to feel like a chore. With a little planning ahead and the right approach, they can be quick and relaxed. Let’s get the “mantelpiece” shots done efficiently, so you can get back to the things that matter most—celebrating, laughing, and making memories with the people you love.
Still worried about how family photos will fit into your day? Let’s chat and create a plan that works for you. 😊
