So, lets talk about the formals, the group shots, the photos that everyone wants but hates the thought of. Here is my take on them and how you can have all the group shots you want but with minimal fuss and only taking up a small fraction of your day.

How many?

I always advise couples to keep group shots to a minimum, somewhere between 6 - 8 groups is perfect. Something a little like this works well..

1 ~ All bridal party - groomsmen and bridesmaids

2 ~ Bridesmaids and bride

3 ~ Groom and groomsmen

4 ~ Bride and parents

5 ~ Groom and parents

6 ~ Bride and groom with brides parents and siblings

7 ~ Bride and groom with grooms parents and siblings

With help onside from your groomsmen and bridesmaids to rally people together, the list above should all be done within 20 minutes, leaving you the rest of the time to enjoy with your guests. Of course, I am always on hand through the reception drinks and rest of the day to grab ad-hoc groupies with you, your pals and family, but done in a far less formal manor. I will also capture lots, and I mean lots of you and your guests without you even knowing. The images below (towards the end) show you perfectly, especially the image of the bride and her nan, a real, honest, storytelling picture.

So, what about a whole wedding party shot?

I am always more than happy to do this shot, the one with everyone, be it, 20, 30 or 100+ Its a nice way to remember everyone who attended your wedding, but there are a few things to consider.. Location? When shooting a big group shot it is always better if I can shoot from a vantage point, high up, so you can all be looking up at me. That way I can capture all the faces without anyone being hidden from view. Now for most venues, this is ok and I can either shoot from a window, balcony or even a raised patio or steps. I sometimes just grab a chair and that often does the trick. How long does it take? The whole party group shot can take 10 minutes, which is mostly spent gathering people together, its quite likely that uncle Bob will be at the bar and Aunty Sheila in the ladies room, so do just bare this in mind..

Kids and group shots

All I say is, don’t stress it, kids after all will be kids, and they more than anyone don’t want to be standing still have their photo taken. If you do want the perfect posed picture with kids I will always try and get these done first, before they trash their outfits and go skidding down grassy banks! But do remember, if the kids act up during the photos they will most certainly become your favourites, the ones you can talk about for years after and say “remember when!” Just like the ones shown below which have certainly become some of my favourites.

When do I do the groups

I will take most of the group shots after the ceremony, once I have been off with the married couple first. Its always nice to let your guests have a drink or 2 first, so whilst this is happening ill be darting around capturing the more candid moments. During the summer months when their is more daylight hours I sometimes save a couple of group shots, especially the main bridal party for after the wedding breakfast when everyone has loosened off a bit. The girls will be more silly and their will most certainly be some bromance moments between the guys.

Think about the ones you’ll frame

My final thought for you when thinking about which group shots to have is to think “would I frame it?” Will it become a photo that you will frame and show off in your house? For the girls, have a photo all together but also, if their is time have one with your girls, the bridesmaids individually. Same for the guys, have a moment with your best man, after all, he’s your best man for a reason.