Are you gearing up for your big day and feeling a little overwhelmed with all the details? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Planning a wedding can be a whirlwind of emotions, but capturing those special moments with your loved ones shouldn’t add to the stress. That’s why I’m here to share some tips for family photos on your wedding day a breeze. Let’s dive right in!

1. Plan Ahead: The key to successful family photos is organization. Before the wedding day, create a list of all the groupings you want to capture. Try to limit this to immediate family so you can spend less time posing for photos and more time enjoying your wedding day! This list will ensure that no one gets left out, and you’ll be able to move through the sessions smoothly. Share the list with your photographer, so they can also be prepared and suggest any additional shots you may have missed.
2. Communicate Clearly: On the day itself, make sure your family members are aware of the photo schedule. It’s a good idea to assign a family member or friend as a “photo wrangler” to gather everyone when it’s their turn. You don’t want you brother to head to cocktail hour when you need him for photos! This will save time and prevent any confusion. A gentle reminder or announcement during the reception can also help keep everyone on track. Remember, clear communication is the key to keeping things running smoothly.
3. Location and Lighting: When choosing a location for your family photos, consider both aesthetics and practicality. I know sometimes you might want to take the photos inside your church, but trust your photographer if they tell you outside is better!
4. Timing is Everything: Time is of the essence on your wedding day, so allocate a specific window for family photos. Your wedding planner and photographer will create a timeline to make sure this happens at the right time! And keeping your family photos separate from the reception will also allow you to enjoy the celebration without any interruptions.
5. Get Creative: I’ve had couples decide not to do formal family photos at all but instead to focus on candid interactions. I’ve also had couples take family photos the night before at their reception! While traditional posed portraits are classic, don’t be afraid to try something different that works for you!  These candid moments will not only make for memorable photos but also create a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. Let the love and laughter shine through!

Remember, family photos on your wedding day are not just about capturing the perfect shot. Your wedding is more than a photo shoot – it’s an event, a celebration of love, a gathering of family. So your photographs are about more than looking at the camera and smiling. They are about preserving the beautiful memories with your loved ones. So relax, enjoy the process, and embrace the love that surrounds you on this special day.