Before writing this blog post I did a little research. I looked at other photographer’s work and I looked at historical group photographs at weddings. I did a little reflection and I came to the conclusion that group photographs have been put into this ‘everyone stand in a line and smile’ category. We were asked to do this when our cameras couldn’t capture movement and we all needed to stand super still to not blur our faces. We were also requested in the photographs for a record of who was in the family. Times have indeed changed but still group photographs are quite serious. THINK AGAIN.
I’m going to admit it, group photo’s aren’t my favourite bit. I love photographing all the fun and natural stuff going on. So… here are a few tips that should help make them as easy going as poss!
- Have no more than 6-8 groups. Trust me on this one. If you have any other groups I can snap these in the evening. Ask your guests to make sure you get a photograph on the dance floor together later..
- Set aside 10-15 minutes for them and have them just after you’ve got back from the couple session/after the ceremony. Everyone will be still suited and booted and ready for some smiling action.
- Send me an accurate name for each group and feel free to write everyone in that group. The clearer the better. This is what I will call out. E.g: ‘Lucy & Matt with Lucy’s siblings with partners and children’.
- Let me know of two photo helpers. One from each side who know’s who is who and can help me gather the right people. (Best not to choose someone who will be in most of them).
- Write what time the group photos are going to happen on your itinerary board. You could even let people know in advance of the day they will be requested for that part.
With these tips I’ll be able to deliver you a fun set of group photographs that you will really treasure. Just like these below.
My aim is to get super relaxed, effortless group photographs. The photographs where people start to let their hair down and have a bit of fun are just so priceless!
It’s also about the photographs that are taken in between the group photographs. When you think I am playing with my settings….
And you don’t have to be static, use a street or a path that you can walk up and down to create a bit of movement like the one below.
Quite often while waiting for someone (normally in the loo) impromptu photographs happen so don’t be afraid to grab me if we are waiting which, is what happened in the photographs below.
And went on to inspire this shot!
Evening photographs are also great, people have loosened up and so as I mentioned above, ask your bridesmaid or groomsmen to ‘make sure you get a photo later on’.
Something else which has worked well is holding off with your best friends and waiting till after pudding. Where you can nip out for a quick 15 min photoshoot with the sun setting!
And that’s that.
Thanks for reading this post, I hope it gives you some inspo but also helps nail this part of the day. If you are still looking for a photographer and love this style of wedding photography then please get in touch.
If you have already booked me then get ready for me to ask you for a group shot list and a few photo helpers. This will be sent out in the questionnaire but please feel free to get in touch before hand if you have any questions!