Streamline Group Photos on Your Wedding Day
Large guest lists and lots of group photos can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry!
Your wedding is about celebrating your marriage and enjoying the rare chance to see all your loved ones together. Our top tip to make group photos stress-free? Create a shot list.
What is a shot list?
It’s exactly what it sounds like: a clear list of all the people you want photos with. Include every combination you care about— immediate family, friends, extended relatives, and any subgroups of larger groups. Organizing this ahead of time ensures your photographer (hopefully us!) can capture everyone efficiently and without confusion.
Breaking It Down Into 2 Parts
part 1: formal group photos
These typically include immediate family, first family members like aunts / uncles / cousins that you’re close to, bridal parties, and other key people in your lives like godparents, childhood friends, etc. These groups usually have a dedicated block of time in your schedule to shoot (before or after the ceremony), and a preferable location.
Part 2: casual / less formal group photos
This typically includes extended family, friends, coworkers, college crews, and other guests. These can be captured on the spot during cocktail hour, dinner, or even on the dance floor. Think of this group as “nice to have” as you’ll likely get informal phone snaps with them too, so it’s less stressful if you don’t photograph every single one of these groupings formally.
How a Shot List Helps
With so much happening on your wedding day, it’s easy to forget a group or miss someone important. Taking time to plan ahead ensures: all key groups are included, sensitive dynamics are top of mind (who should stand where, splitting groups / specific people if needed), and that your photographer (hopefully us hehe) can work efficiently, like a well-oiled machine.
We typically keep the shot list handy on our phones or printed out, and simply roll call each group when the time comes. This saves time and reduces stress, and will hopefully ease the soreness in your cheeks from smiling for so long!
Here’s an Example
Carina & Matt had a large guest list and limited venue time. By creating an extremely organized shot list, we were able to capture every group, even with a strict schedule. With careful planning, they got all the group photos they wanted, in the location they wanted, before moving to their reception space.
Don’t feel intimidated! Not every wedding needs a massive shot list. Some couples focus on immediate family only, while others want every single guest included. Your list should reflect what feels right for you and your day.
Pro Tip
Divide your groups into three sections for a better flow:
Partner 1’s family & friends
Overlapping groups
Partner 2’s family & friends
Additionally, listing the people needed in each section allows your photographer (once again, hopefully us!) to call names efficiently, check off groups quickly, and move through the session smoothly.
This method keeps group photos organized, efficient, and stress-free, leaving you more time to enjoy your day while ensuring every meaningful combination is captured beautifully.