Ah the family photos! No doubt, an important part of the day, however, it shouldn’t last longer than it should. I’ve heard of horror stories of family photos lasting 1hr+! With me, family photos rarely last longer than half an hour and with these three tips your family photo session should be quick and efficient as well!
1. Have a list
One month before the wedding, I ask my couples for a family photo list of all the combinations of family members that they would like to have photographed. Typically this is around 20
combinations. With this list, no one will be missed! I ask that this list goes by the first name as I don't know who many of your guests are. While on that note, I also ask my couples to delegate someone to help me gather family for photos for that same reason.
2. Let people know
Before the ceremony, have either the MC, or the officiant announce that family photos will follow the ceremony and to please stick around. I typically take family photos right after the ceremony because everyone is gathered there already so no one has to go searching for uncle Bob or cousin Ross.
3. Put the drinks and sunglasses away. Bags too.
Family photos are probably the most formal photos of the day so you want them looking that way. It also saves time so people aren’t trying to hide beer bottles behind legs and handing bags off for people to hold.
Follow these three tips and you’ll be on your way to the quickest, most efficient family photo session ever!