How to get memorable shots you’ll love while making the process smooth and enjoyable for all.

Corralling groups of people at an exciting wedding for a natural, well-lit portrait isn’t always easy, especially if there are kids involved. After the dozens upon dozens of weddings I’ve photographed, I’ve come to expect the common interferences – restroom breaks, children who hate taking photos, family members “disappearing,” and the like. These little occurrences can lead to stress for the couple, and stress is not fun – nor is it good for photos.

But family and friend portraits can be – dare I say – enjoyable.

Here are my tips for making sure the portrait photography session at your wedding results in photos you’ll want to hang up and treasure for a long time.

Come up with a detailed list of family portraits you’d like taken

As the photographer, if I can easily reference whom to call for which photos, the entire process becomes easier and more efficient! Think of the groups you’d like to photograph together well in advance of the wedding, and help your photographer get familiar with some of the characters, I mean, family members they should expect to see.

Communicate with your family about the portraits before the wedding

Let your family know when to expect the family portraits, where the photos will be taken, how many pictures you would like them to be in, generally how long the session will take, and any other important details about the photos or your expectations. This preparation will help your wedding photographer capture the shots more quickly and efficiently.

Appoint a point person (not a family member) to help gather folks for the portrait sessions

Ask a friend (perhaps one with a voice that carries) to help you find people for the photo session. Asking individuals to join group photos, and lining up members so that they are ready for the next shot, are both really important tasks that they can assist with.

Have reasonable expectations for kids

Amongst all the commotion, it may be hard to get younger children to smile or look at the camera. Trust me — it’s OK! I’ve seen hiccups like these produce hilariously priceless moments, as well as pictures that are just as beautiful as those with everyone smiling and looking. Again — relaxed, joyful energy is going to produce the most beautiful photos, so making that the priority is wise.

Set reasonable expectations for all

Everyone wants their wedding photography to be on point, but don’t let yourself get wrapped up in the idea of perfection. If you’re enjoying yourself during the process, that will show through, making you more photogenic. That relaxed energy will also affect those around you, and their photos too!

Be patient and let your photographer work their magic

Your wedding photographer will have a plan for gathering and cueing wedding guests for photos. Trust your photographer to handle and direct these portrait sessions, and relax and enjoy the opportunity to capture such beautiful memories.

And for fun…here’s a more unique family portrait below for your enjoyment.

Wedding Photography in the Denver Metro Area and throughout Colorado

I’d love to get to know you and be your wedding photographer! Give me a call at 520-891-3805 or email me at cgarnerphotography@gmail.com to set up an appointment. I look forward to speaking with you!