Why it's worth getting the gang together
There are very few times in life when everyone you love is in the same place at the same time. A wedding is one of them, all there to celebrate you (it gives me goosebumps just thinking about it). So why wouldn't you want that on camera? Probably not what you expected me to say, right?
I'm all about natural photos that tell the story of your day as it happened. But I still believe in group shots, because there are no do-overs. When we got married, we didn't think group photos were important, and now we really wish we had at least one photo with a loved one who's no longer here. It's completely your call, but if you're including a few (and they needn't take long), here are my top five tips.
1. Keep the combinations simple
Group photos are exactly what they say on the tin: groups. Think about the common threads among your guests and stick to combinations that make sense, like each side of the family, uni friends or the wedding party. You'll get through them much faster than doing lots of small groups of one or two.
2. Stick to classic poses
Like the little black dress, classic never dates. Resist recreating whatever's doing the rounds on Pinterest this year. Once the trend has passed, gimmicky group shots are the ones you'll cringe at.
3. Let someone else do the rounding up
I completely get wanting to help (it's in my DNA too), but on your wedding day the guest-wrangling isn't your job. Pick a confident person from each side of the family who knows everyone and can help me find any strays.
4. Chat to your guests in between
I work quickly so you've got plenty of time with your guests afterwards. Even with military-level organising, each group takes a minute or so to set up, so don't feel you have to stand still and wait. Chat, laugh and enjoy it.
5. Relax and enjoy it
Remember how relaxed you felt by the end of your engagement shoot? This is where it pays off. It'll be over in a flash (sorry, photography pun), so enjoy it.
Bonus tip: the big group shot
The one photo of absolutely everyone. Not everyone wants it, and honestly, I'd usually suggest leaving it out. Controversial, I know. It takes a long time and eats into the minutes we have for photos of the two of you. It's worth weighing up a sea of tiny faces against lots of lovely, meaningful photos of your day. Smaller, intimate weddings are the exception, where everyone fits beautifully.
One last thing
I'm with you all day, so if you suddenly want a photo with your workmates, just grab me. Not everything has to be on the list. Forgot to add you, your boss and Sarah from accounts? No problem.
A simple group shot list
Here's a guide to around ten groups in just over half an hour:
- Wedding party: about 5 minutes
- Family: about 10 minutes, covering each side's full family, then grandparents, parents and siblings, then parents
- Additional photos: about 15 minutes, such as all your friends or everyone together
