While most of your wedding day is about documenting those unplanned moments or those ‘just married’ mushy bits, we realize that family photos are just as important. Having a planned family shot list on your wedding day is important for a few reasons. But mostly, it’s much easier to make thoughtful decisions about which photos you’d like when you aren’t in the middle wedding day chaos. You’ll go into the day knowing that the important shots are on the list.  

Secondly, because this list exists you are giving your photographer what they need to take charge of this part of the day.  We’ve found that as photographers when we can take charge of the family photo time we can get this portion of your day done so much more quickly. If we have the list and can direct people for each grouping then we can ensure that your family photo moments are quick and stress free for you.

A family photo shot list makes sure that you don’t have as many family members waiting around wanting additional photos—if they know that we have a list and we have got it under control then they aren’t worried you’re missing out on something important. And lastly, having a family photo shot list will ensure that you and your photographer are on the same page about which groupings are important to you so you can plan your timeline accordingly.

For your family photos, you can estimate that every group will take approximately three minutes to photograph (when you consider the time it takes to gather each group, arrange them, and fluff your dress). With this in mind, we recommend that you consider limiting these family photos to only ones that you know you are going to print and frame. It can be hard when you feel the pressure of every family member ever wanting pictures with you in that moment, but consider selecting only immediate family members to be involved. And remember, you can always grab some more pictures during the reception with other extended family members, too!

Remember though— it’s your day!! If you want more pictures, you do you. Just take a look at our recommended timeline guide and be sure to add in extra time for pictures too.

BRIDE’S SIDE

> Bride with mom

> Bride with dad

> Bride with both parents

> Bride and groom with bride’s parents

> Bride and groom with bride’s immediate family (bride’s parents, siblings, and siblings’ spouses and children)

> Bride and groom with bride’s maternal grandparents

> Bride and groom with bride’s paternal grandparents

GROOM’S SIDE

> Groom with mom

> Groom with dad

> Groom with both parents

> Groom and bride with groom’s parents

> Groom and bride with groom’s immediate family (groom’s parents, siblings, and siblings’ spouses and children)

> Groom and bride with groom’s maternal grandparents

> Groom and bride with groom’s paternal grandparents

 

Remember: it’s YOUR wedding day! So, this is just a suggestion!