Family photos are an essential part of any wedding. They capture the love and joy shared among your closest family members! However, organizing these shots can be time-consuming and, at times, a little stressful. But as a wedding photographer, I’ve learned several tips and tricks to streamline the process. Here’s how to make family photos at your wedding fast and easy!
-Plan Ahead-
Create a Shot List
Weeks before the wedding, collaborate with your clients to create a comprehensive shot list. This list should include all the family groupings they want to capture. It acts as a roadmap, ensuring you won’t forget anyone and keeps the shoot organized. Share this list with the couple and their wedding planner.
Schedule a Specific Time
Advise your clients to set aside a specific time for family photos—preferably right after the ceremony and before the reception. Communicate this schedule to their family members well in advance, so everyone is aware. This minimizes the likelihood of delays caused by people wandering off or being unaware of the schedule.
Set The Scene
Choose a Convenient Location
Select a photography spot that’s easy for everyone to access, particularly older family members and children. The location should be close to the ceremony and reception areas to minimize transit time and make it easy for everyone to assemble quickly.
Keep It Simple and Elegant
A clutter-free, elegant background enhances the visual appeal of the photos and reduces distractions. Ensure the space is well-lit and prepped before the shoot starts. Check for any lighting issues or distractions in the background ahead of time.
Organize the Participants
Assign Helpers
Ask your clients if a couple of responsible friends or family members can help round people up. These helpers can ensure that everyone is where they need to be, reducing waiting time and keeping the process smooth and efficient.
Inform the Family Members
Encourage your clients to clearly communicate the shot list and timelines to their family members before the wedding day. Utilizing a group chat or email can help disseminate this information, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
Execute Efficiently
Start with Larger Groups
Begin the session with larger group shots and gradually narrow it down to smaller groups. This allows those not needed for later pictures to head off to the reception or take a break, freeing up space and reducing chaos.
Have a Posing Strategy
Discuss basic posing ideas with your clients beforehand. Having a clear idea of which poses you want for each group can save precious time during the photo session. Direct family members efficiently, so each shot is captured quickly and beautifully.
Quick Tips for Success
– Arrive Early: Encourage family members to arrive at the photo location a few minutes before the scheduled time.
– Stay Hydrated: Make sure everyone stays hydrated, especially if the shoot is outdoors.
– Be Flexible: Despite all plans, some things may run late. Maintaining a flexible attitude helps keep stress at bay and ensures a more relaxed environment for everyone.
Capturing beautiful family photos doesn’t need to be a drawn-out ordeal. By planning ahead, organizing participants, and executing efficiently, you can make family photos at your wedding fast and easy. Follow these steps, and you’ll get through the session with minimal stress, resulting in lovely images that everyone will cherish for years to come!
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Kind Words
“Where do I begin?! Brit was an absolute joy to work with for our wedding. Her energy, talent, and creativity is unmatched! My family is now obsessed with her (as am I) and in the words of my mom, she’s a photo-taking “ninja.” We will cherish the moments she captured on our wedding day forever and I cannot wait to work with her again! Truly a gem.” – Caroline
