Group and family photos are a classic part of any wedding day. They may be a little more formal, but they’re also some of the most treasured images—capturing generations, friendships, and connections that are rarely all together in one place. But without a little planning, they can also take up more time than you’d like. Here’s how to make the most of your group wedding photos without letting them take over the day.


Why Group Photos Matter

While the candid moments are often the most emotionally charged, group photos hold incredible value. They become family heirlooms, often framed, shared, and looked back on for decades. They ensure you have everyone you love included in your story.

But getting those must-have shots doesn’t mean your guests have to wait around for ages—or that your drinks reception gets taken over by callouts and confusion.


Planning Group Photos With Your Photographer

The key to smooth, stress-free group shots is planning ahead. Here’s how we make it simple:

1. Include Time for Them in Your Timeline

One of the biggest mistakes couples make is not setting aside specific time for group photos. If you don’t schedule it, it either gets rushed or missed completely. I always recommend allocating up to 20 minutes depending on the number of groups, and we’ll work together to make it efficient.

2. Pick the Right Time of Day

The best time for group photos is usually right after the ceremony. Everyone is still gathered together, attention spans are high, and it’s easy to round people up before they disappear to check in or grab a drink.

3. Choose a Great Location

As your photographer, I’ll help choose the best location at your venue based on lighting, background, and guest accessibility. Whether it's a shaded spot with even light or a grand backdrop like the ceremony space or a feature wall, we’ll find the perfect setting.

Create a Photo List – And Share It Before the Day

To keep everything running smoothly, it’s important to create a pre-prepared list of the group photos you want. This:

  • Keeps us on track and organised.
  • Makes sure no important combinations are missed.
  • Reduces confusion and time spent gathering guests.

Without a list, it’s far too easy to forget important people or spend extra time deciding who’s next.


What I Do to Make It Easy for You

As part of your pre-wedding consultation, I’ll ask for your group photo list well in advance. I’ll:

  • Add in any essential groups you may have forgotten (e.g., both sets of parents, grandparents, bridal party, etc.).
  • Reorder your list to keep similar combinations together and reduce back-and-forth.
  • Advise on the best location and lighting options on the day.
  • Keep things moving on the day with a clear plan and relaxed, confident direction.

The goal is to capture the memories without keeping your guests waiting. You’ve chosen to spend your wedding day with the people you love—I’ll help make sure they’re part of the story, without missing the fun.


Final Thoughts

Group photos might not be the most glamorous part of the day, but they’re some of the most meaningful. With a little planning, they can be quick, easy, and even enjoyable.

If you're looking for a wedding photographer who’ll guide you through the process and help make the formal photos stress-free, I’d love to chat.