Group Photos? Totally Optional!
It’s your day, and you’re free to do whatever feels right for you. If group photos aren’t your thing, no pressure at all-you make the rules! 😊
That being said, many of my couples do find real value in having a few group shots. Even if it’s not the most exciting part of the day, these photos often become treasured keepsakes with the people who matter most.
With just a little planning, we can make the whole process smooth, efficient, and (dare I say it?) even a bit fun! Keep the list short and sweet-around 8- 10 groups is the sweet spot-and you’ll be back to the party in no time. 🎉
📋 Sample Group Photo List
Keep the list short and sweet-around 8-10 groups is the sweet spot-and you’ll be back to the party in no time.
Whether you want a big extended family photo or just a handful of simple pairings, create a list and I make it happen-your way.
Not sure where to start with group photos? Most couples like to include a few classic combinations, such as:
- Bride’s Parents
- Groom’s Parents
- Bride’s Immediate Family (parents, siblings, grandparents)
- Groom’s Immediate Family (parents, siblings, grandparents)
- Bride’s Extended Family
- Groom’s Extended Family
- Bridal Party (bridesmaids, best man, ushers, flower girls, page boys)
- Special Combinations – Think just siblings, a favourite cousin, a beloved grandparent, or any group of people that mean the world to you.
Every family is beautifully unique, so feel free to use this as a starting point and adjust it to suit your own dynamic. Whether your group is big, small, blended, or somewhere in between-we’ll make it work smoothly and with zero stress.
🥂 Thinking About a Big Group Photo?
A photo with all your guests can be a lovely idea-it’s not often you have everyone you love in one place! But just a heads-up: it does come with a few challenges.
Rounding up 100+ people can take 15–20 minutes, and with guests mingling, chasing after little ones, or heading off for a drink, it can get a little chaotic. If this photo is important to you, the best time to do it is right after the ceremony, before everyone disappears. A quick announcement from your celebrant or someone in your bridal party can help gather the crowd.
BUT—it’s totally okay to skip it.
Honestly, many couples decide not to do a big group shot, and that’s perfectly fine. It can eat into your time for couple portraits or mingling during cocktail hour, and sometimes the effort outweighs the outcome. If you’re not sure it’s “you,” don’t feel pressured to include it.
If you do go for it, we’ll make sure there’s a good location-somewhere elevated like steps, a balcony, or a gentle hill is ideal so everyone can be seen.
📋 Top Tips for a Stress-Free Group Shot List
Group photos don’t have to be stressful or time-consuming-with a little prep, we can keep things smooth, relaxed, and (dare I say) even enjoyable! Here are a few friendly tips to help you build a group shot list that flows effortlessly on the day:
📝 Write a List
Before the big day, sit down and jot down the group shots you’d like. This ensures we don’t miss anything that might feel important later on. Chat with your parents too-they often have a few must-haves you may not have thought of. A clear list also helps me arrange the photos in a logical order, which saves time on the day.
👨👩👧 Be Specific
Instead of just writing “Bride’s Family,” get clear on who’s included. Is it just parents and siblings, or are we adding grandparents, aunties, uncles, cousins, and partners too? The more specific your list, the smoother it’ll go-no second-guessing or mid-photo reshuffling.
🔟 Keep the Numbers Down
Try to limit your list to around 10 groups or fewer. Ask yourself: Where will I use this photo? Will it go in your album, on your wall, or be gifted to a loved one? Focusing on the combinations that really matter means less time posing and more time enjoying your day.
⏱ Allow Enough Time
With a solid list, I can usually photograph 8–10 groups in about 20–30 minutes. Smaller groups (up to 6 people) take about 3 minutes, while larger groups may need around 5. It’s amazing how much time we can save by being just a little prepared!
🗣 Allocate a Helper
Choose a confident, organized helper (a bridesmaid, groomsman, or close friend) who knows your guests. They’ll help gather people quickly so we’re not losing time chasing down Uncle Bob at the bar or trying to find Auntie Susan mid-chat.
📍 Trust Me on the Location
I’ll scout the best spots at your venue for lighting, space, and style. I look for soft, flattering light (hello, gentle shade!) and a background that complements your wedding vibe. All you need to do is relax and smile.
🧒 Plan for the Little Ones
Got little guests in your group shots? Let’s photograph them early, while they’re still fresh and not covered in snacks or mid-tantrum. It gives us the best chance of capturing those sweet smiles before nap time or chaos hits.
🕒 Timing is Everything
Group photos work best when done right after the ceremony, before the drinks flow and guests start to wander. It helps avoid delays and ensures everyone’s still close by and looking their best. Plus, you get back to celebrating sooner!
By preparing your group photo list ahead of time, you’re setting yourself up for a smooth, easy-going part of the day-no stress, no awkward pauses, just gorgeous memories with the people who matter most.
With love & excitement,
Ingrid — IG Time Photography
Thank you for trusting me to be part of your day. I’m here to help you enjoy it, every step of the way
