3 Tips for Stress-Free Family Portraits on Your Wedding Day

Amongst the joy and excitement that comes with getting photographed on your wedding day, there’s one portion that tends to get a bit chaotic… the family portraits. Typically, these are taken before the ceremony- so It’s important to make sure you plan them efficiently to avoid any added stress or timeline mishaps on your wedding day. Today I’m sharing 3 tips for organizing stress-free family portraits, ensuring they go as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Make a family shot list for your photographer.

I always ask my clients for a family shot list a couple of weeks before the wedding, so we both have plenty of time to prepare. A shot list lets your photographer know which family members should be prioritized in the portraits, and the particular shots you want with each person. If there are strained relationships or drama in the family, let your photographer know ahead of time. This will help avoid creating any uncomfortable situations while posing everyone for group portraits.

Here’s an example of a family shot list:

• B&G – Groom’s entire family
• B&G – Groom’s extended family
• B&G – Groom’s immediate family
• B&G – Groom’s parents
• B&G – Groom’s siblings
• B&G – Bride’s extended family
• B&G – Bride’s extended family
• B&G – Bride’s immediate family
• B&G – Bride’s parents
• B&G – Bride’s siblings
• B&G – both sets of parents
• B&G – both sets of siblings
• B&G – both sets of the immediate family

Let the listed family members know what is expected of them.

Give everyone on the list a heads up of when and where the family photos will take place. You may want to consider emphasizing how important these photos are to you and your partner, to encourage cooperation amongst the family members that tend to be a little more impatient.

Delegate responsibility to a member of each side of the family.

Since your photographer most likely won’t know the names and faces of everyone in the group, it’s a good idea to have a “point person” on each side of the family to keep everyone on track and where they need to be. Choosing someone with a louder voice will help ensure everyone can hear their names being called when it’s their time for portraits.

Although you and your partner are the focal points of your wedding photos, the family portraits are something you’ll want to have and cherish forever. I mean- how often is your entire family together, dressed up, on such a special day? With some organized planning and clear communication, this can be a quick and stress-free process, resulting in amazing family portraits from your wedding day.