How to organise Wedding Group Formal photos
One of Flori’s lucky brides with a creamy, soft pink pastel wedding bouquet colour scheme
Organizing group photos at a wedding can be a logistical challenge, but with careful planning and execution, you can ensure that everyone gets their moment in front of the camera without unnecessary delays. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you streamline this process and capture beautiful memories efficiently.
Choose the Perfect Location: This is one is probably more to to do with your wedding photographer BUT if there’s a preference for what you like for the background (e.g. the view, greens, garden, structures) then definitely let your photographer know. They’ll let you know whether a certain place is good or not for things like lighting.
Preparation! Get a list together: Before the big day, create a detailed list of all the group combinations that you’d like to have. This could range from immediate family members to various friend groups and the bridal party. Organize this list in a logical sequence to minimize the movement of guests between different photo setups. We’ve got a sample list below to help you get started <3
Assign Responsibilities: Designate one or two reliable helpers who are familiar with the guests to assist in gathering people for each group photo. These helpers can be invaluable in rounding up family members, friends, and other guests swiftly and efficiently. I can’t stress enough how awesome this is as we’d be photographing one group and the next group is already standing behind me waiting to go.
Clear Communication: Immediately after the ceremony, announce to all guests where and when the group photos will take place. This can be done via a microphone announcement or by having the officiant inform everyone. Clear communication ensures that everyone knows where to go and when, minimizing confusion and delays.
Give Everyone Numbers: Each group can be given a number and once that’s been organised, make sure that all guests know what numbered group they’re in. That way when it comes to calling out groups, the MC/Photographer/Helper can simply call the number out for people to start making their way forward. People will also be able to make plans for their um… bladder breaks if they know when they’re needed.
Don’t Forget to Hug!: While we do want to get your wedding formal group photos out of the way as quickly as possible, you just got married! And no doubt your family and friends are super excited for you! Feel free to hug and kiss em as they’re coming up. While timing might not allow you to catch up and exchange stories from the last 10 years you haven’t seen each other, there’s definitely enough time to get excited for those hugs and kisses so no need to stress about.
Flexibility is Key: Be prepared to adapt if key individuals are temporarily unavailable or if additional groupings are requested on the spot. Flexibility ensures that all desired photos are captured without unnecessary stress.
So, to help get you started, here’s a sample list that you can tweak around with.
B&G + both parents
B&G + bride's grandparents
B&G + bride's parents
B&G + bride's parents + siblings
B&G + bride's extended family
B&G + both side’s extended family
B&G + groom's extended family
B&G + groom's parents
B&G + groom's parents + siblings
B&G + groom's grandparents (this could also be done earlier so that they can go rest)
B&G + bridal party (bridesmaids, flower girls, best man, ushers, page boys)
B&G OR just B or G + specific family/friend/work group
Bonus!
If you feel like it’s a it hard to cut down the group list (usually 20-25), you can always do the essential ones first, with it on a structured list (make sure everyone is in at least one of the groups!) and then have the MC announce that it’s open floor and anyone/group can come up for another photo if they’d like for another 5 minutes <3
Organizing group photos at a wedding requires meticulous planning, clear communication, and efficient execution. So, hopefully by following these tips, you can ensure that everyone enjoys the process while capturing beautiful memories that will be cherished for years to come.
Just a few tips and tricks we’ve picked up over our years as an Auckland Wedding Photographer!
