Family formal group shots are one of the most important photos you will take when it comes to your memories. These are the photos that end up framed on mom’s mantle and incorporate those closest to us so we can remember their presence for this big moments for years to come. What no one wants to think about is how little fun they are to execute. They can be disheveled and cumbersome and just no fun. Let’s talk about how to make them fast and easy so you can get the photos your family will cherish without missing out on the fun of your day.

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How do you come up with a family photo shot list for your wedding?

Making your family portrait list may seem like a daunting task. But, as you’re thinking about which groupings to include, ask yourself these questions:

Which photos will you likely frame and want to see in your wedding album?
Which groupings are truly important to you, not simply expected by others?
Will you be disappointed if a group isn’t on the list?
How much time are you willing to set aside for family photos?
What’s more important to you: taking lots of family photos or getting to spend time with your friends and family at your reception?

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Between gathering family members, arranging everyone, fluffing your dress, and letting your photographer take several photos of each group to ensure that everyone looks their best, you can estimate that each group will take two - four minutes to shoot.

With the questions above in mind, I recommend the following configurations.

Bride’s Side

Bride with both parents (individually and separate)
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 with siblings (individual and together)
Bride with grandparents

Groom’s Side

Groom with both parents (individually and separately)
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 with siblings (individual and separate)
Groom with grandparents

Both Sides

Bride and groom with both sets of parents
Bride and groom with all grandparents
Bride and groom with full family - both sides
Bride and groom with al nieces and nephews

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Not seeing something on this list that you want? Perhaps you want a photo with your siblings (This could happen during bridal party photos if all are in the bridal party) or a three-generation photo with you, your mom, and your grandma. Not to worry! Adjust this list as you need.

I recommend having no more than 15 groupings and * limiting your shot list to your immediate family and grandparents. This way, you can get your family photos done within an hour and enjoy your reception!

* Few brides and grooms frame or include extended family photos. Your reception is a great time to grab photos with extended family members. That said, this is YOUR wedding day. If getting a photo with aunts/uncles/cousins is super important and something you will regret not having, tell your photographer so I can make sure this happens at reception or cocktail hour. We can also have a secondary shot list that is a couple group photos you want to be sure we get at reception. Examples would be a group of college friends or work friends or the grooms pick up football pals. You name it and Ill make sure we get it when time allows ;)