Keep it organized, stress-free, and fun — and still get all the important people.
Group shots.
They can be the most beautiful photos of your day.
Or they can feel like herding cats in formal wear.
You know the drill:
Your aunt disappeared to the cocktail bar.
Your groomsman decided now’s the time to vape.
Your niece is crying.
Meanwhile, the clock is ticking, and the last thing you want is stress.
The truth?
Group shots don’t have to be chaos.
They don’t have to be stiff, awkward, or ugh.
They can be fast.
They can be fun.
They can be you.
Here’s how to make that happen.
Start here: who are the absolute must-haves for group photos?
Think parents. Siblings. Grandparents. Wedding party.
Not every cousin. Not your college roommate’s date.
Keep it simple. The fewer groupings, the smoother things go.
Here’s the sweet spot:
If you’re set on extended family photos, make sure you have extra photo time on the timeline.
Pro Tip: Share your list with your photographer ahead of time. That way, they’re not guessing. You’re not stressing.
This is your secret weapon.
Every family has that one person:
Ask them to be your wrangler. Hand them the shot list, give them a heads-up, and let them help round everyone up.
While your photographer focuses on composition and lighting, your wrangler makes sure no one’s MIA.
Result? Order. Speed. Peace.
The best time for group shots? Right after the ceremony or right before if you have a first look.
Here’s why:
Have your officiant announce, “Family and wedding party, please stay close for photos.”
Boom — no chaos.
Want fewer eyes on you? Schedule group shots before the ceremony during a first look session.
Group photos don’t have to be formal to feel timeless.
Break the tension:
Movement makes magic.
Your photographer might ask your group to:
The energy will show in the photos. And you’ll actually enjoy it.
Want a stress-free group photo session?
Communicate before the big day.
Let your VIPs know:
Most people don’t realize they’re holding things up. A little heads-up makes a big difference.
Kids in group shots? Adorable.
But also: unpredictable.
Here’s how to keep them happy:
The truth is, kids bring energy to group photos. Let them steal the show for a second.
A great photographer knows how to keep things moving.
They’ll direct the group, find the best light, and make sure every shot feels effortless.
Your only job?
Show up. Smile. And trust them to work their magic.
Group shots don’t have to feel like a stressful lineup at the DMV.
With a little planning, they can be:
And when you look at those photos years later?
You’ll see all your people. All your joy. All the love that surrounded you.
Want to Make Sure You Don’t Miss a Single Moment?
Group shots are just one piece of the puzzle — but there are so many other moments you’ll want to capture. From the quiet “getting ready” moments to the big dance floor finale, don’t miss a thing.
Grab our free guide:
“10 Must-Have Photos on Your Wedding Day”
👉 [Download It Here!]
Because the best wedding photos tell the whole story — yours. ❤️