When it comes to wedding photography, most of the important photos will be of just the bride and groom. However, many couples love to have a few group shots to commemorate all the loved ones that joined them on their special day.
In some weddings, this could mean 20-30 people. For others, it could mean 200! Regardless of the size, navigating the large wedding group shot is a tricky component of being a wedding photographer.
Lucky for you, I’ve acquired a handful of tips to help you execute the perfect large wedding group shot. In short, it will require planning, organization, and effective communication, all of which I will walk you through to help you shoot your next wedding with ease.
5 Tips to Excel at Capturing Large Wedding Group Shots
1. Plan Ahead and Communicate Clearly
Effective planning is the key to successfully managing large group shots at weddings. Start by discussing with the couple well in advance to create a comprehensive shot list. This list should include all the essential groupings, such as immediate family, extended family, bridal party, and friends. Understand the couple’s priorities and preferences regarding group photos, as well as any special requests they may have.
Once the shot list is finalized, communicate the plan clearly with the couple and their wedding coordinator or planner. Ensure everyone involved, including key family members or bridal party members who will assist in organizing guests, understands the schedule and location for each group shot. Designate a reliable helper who knows the guests well to assist in gathering people quickly and efficiently on the wedding day.
Also, don’t forget to build in sufficient time in the wedding day timeline for each group session. You may need to consider travel time between locations if necessary and the natural flow of events to avoid rushing through the group shots. A well-planned schedule will help minimize stress and ensure that you have ample time to capture each group comfortably.
2. Use a Stepladder or Elevated Position
Photographing large groups requires visibility and in order to have good visibility, consider getting yourself to an elevated position. One option is to use a stepladder or find an elevated position from which to shoot, such as a balcony or hill. This elevated perspective allows you to capture a broader view of the group, ensuring that everyone is visible and well-positioned within the frame.
3. Arrange Groups Thoughtfully
When arranging the wedding group shot, begin with the couple at the center of each group of family members and friends around them based on height and relationship. Consider using staggered rows or formations to create depth in the photograph.
As people are moving into place, scan the group as a whole to make sure you can see their faces, that hair is not blocking anyone, and that there are not too many people on one side.
PERSONAL TIP: I do this while everyone is moving into place to be as efficient during the group photo time as possible. I aim to not be knit picky but to be logical – if it makes sense to have grandma and grandpa near the front, even though they are taller than some of the bridesmaids, that’s okay. I will also tell everyone “If you can’t see my face, then I can’t see yours!” This helps people naturally adjust.
4. Encourage Natural Poses
Encourage natural poses and interactions among group members rather than stiff and formal poses. Provide gentle guidance and prompts to evoke genuine smiles and expressions from everyone involved. Try to capture spontaneous moments of laughter, hugs, and shared emotions that reflect the joy and celebration of the day.
PERSONAL TIP: I also often just hold the shutter down for large group shots so that I get multiple photos of the same pose, just in case someone moves, blinks, or laughs. These can turn out really special!
5. Be Considerate
Throughout the group photo session, remain attentive to individual guests’ comfort and engagement levels. Be patient and flexible in accommodating last-minute adjustments or additional groupings requested by the couple or their families. Be thoughtful of different guest ages and abilities (think grandparents versus nieces and nephews). Creating a positive and enjoyable experience during group shots will contribute to the overall success of the wedding day.
By planning meticulously, utilizing an elevated position, arranging groups strategically, encouraging natural poses, and overall being considerate of the group, you can confidently manage large group shots as a professional wedding photographer.
These tips will not only streamline the process but also ensure that you capture heartfelt moments and genuine connections that the couple and their loved ones will treasure long past the day!
Want more photography tips? Check out these posts!
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