Overview


This is not a comprehensive guide, every wedding has it's own unique vibe. With many weddings I have captured, here are the best best best tips I can make for making these photos go smoothly, and efficiently so you can get people to cocktail hour and enjoy your wedding day.


Tips for a smooth process

  1. Do not encourage drinking before the ceremony. Intoxicated people do not follow direction well.
  2. Keep the lists small and to groups only. Solo photos can be taken before the ceremony for those joining you to get ready or during the reception. This is with the exception of grandparents.
  3. Ensure the most important people are there, and they know ahead of time. Immediate and Extended Family are phrases that mean different things to everyone.
  4. Have your officiant make an announcement at the beginning, and a reminder at the end.
  5. Keep family photos at the ceremony location, unless your family is small.
  6. Be aware of mobility restrictions, and mention them to your photographer.
  7. Do not exclude aunts or uncles. Invite everyone or nobody, unless they are God-parents and that aspect is important to you.
  8. Take a photo with your officiant first.
  9. Have a plan for the bride's dress. A swish in front or all in the back... either way looks nice.


Who is immediate family vs. extended family?

  • Immediate (fastest)
  • Siblings (and Spouses)
  • Parents (and Steps)
  • Grandparents (and Steps)
  • Children (if applicable)
  • Extended
  • Aunts & Uncles
  • Great-Aunts & Uncles
  • Cousins
  • Nephews + Nieces
  • Spouses
  • Anyone else blood related


Sample Lists of Family Photos

  • Immediate
  • Bride's Side
  • Bride w/ Her Parents (add Groom)
  • Bride w/ Her Siblings (add Groom)
  • Couple w/ Her Siblings + Parents
  • Couple w/ Her Siblings + Parents + Grandparents
  • Bride w/ Her Grandparents (add Groom)
  • Groom's Side
  • Groom w/ His Parents (add Bride)
  • Groom w/ His Siblings (add Bride)
  • Couple w/ His Siblings + Parents
  • Couple w/ His Siblings + Parents + Grandparents
  • Groom w/ His Grandparents (add Bride)
  • Combined Family
  • Couple + All Siblings
  • Couple + All Parents
  • Couple + All Siblings + Parents
  • Extended - add ons
  • Combined
  • Full Family
  • Each Side
  • Full Family
  • Aunts / Uncles / Cousins
  • All Cousins