A Wedding Photographer's Guide to Quick and
Stress-Free Family Wedding Photos

Family photos are a beautiful part of any wedding. They're the snapshots your loved ones will frame, treasure, and pass down for years to come. But let's be real—organising them without a game plan can quickly feel overwhelming. That's where a bit of structure goes a long way.

In this guide, you'll find a simple, time-saving approach to family portraits that ensures no one gets missed, the energy stays high, and you can get back to the party sooner rather than later.

Let's dive in.

📋 Why Structure Matters

The best way to keep things smooth and stress-free is by following a logical order—starting with the largest groups and working your way down to the smallest. Doing this can wrap most family photo sessions in around 20 minutes, give or take.

Here's an example list to help guide your planning. It's designed to suit any couple—swap out labels like "bride" or "groom" for whatever feels right for you (Partner 1 / Partner 2, or use names—totally up to you!).

✨ Sample Family Photo List

Big Group to Start

• Everyone at the wedding

• All friends only

• All extended family from both sides

Partner 1's Family

• Couple with Partner 1's extended family

• Couple with Partner 1's immediate family (parents, grandparents, siblings)

• Couple with Partner 1's parents & siblings

• Partner 1 with their parents & siblings

• Couple with Partner 1's siblings

• Partner 1 with siblings only

• Couple with Partner 1's grandparents

• Partner 1 with grandparents only

• Couple with Partner 1's parents

• Partner 1 with their parents

• Partner 1 with mum

• Partner 1 with dad

Combined Families

• Couple with both sets of parents

Partner 2's Family

• Couple with Partner 2's extended family

• Couple with Partner 2's immediate family

• Couple with Partner 2's parents & siblings

• Partner 2 with their parents & siblings

• Couple with Partner 2's siblings

• Partner 2 with siblings only

• Couple with Partner 2's grandparents

• Partner 2 with their parents

• Partner 2 with mum

• Partner 2 with dad

🛠️ Customise It However You Like

Every family looks different, and your list should reflect that. Have step-parents or close chosen family? Want solo shots with each sibling or a grandparent? We can totally make that happen.

This guide is just a foundation—use it as a springboard to create something that works for your people and your vibe.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Photo Session

🎤 Get the Celebrant Involved

Ask your celebrant to announce that family photos will follow the ceremony shortly after, just before the ceremony concludes. That way, no one disappears too early.

📋 Assign a Photo Wrangler

Nominate someone from each side who knows the family well and can help gather people. This keeps things moving and saves loads of time.

🕒 Timing It Right

We always take family photos straight after the ceremony while everyone is nearby and looking fresh. On average, plan for about 20 minutes for a wedding with around 100–120 guests.

🌧️ Have a Backup Plan

If the weather turns, don't stress—we'll pivot to a covered space or create something beautiful indoors.

👶 Got Kids in the Mix?

Let's get those photos early in the lineup while the little ones are still in good spirits.

📸 Candid Moments Count Too

In-between moments, like hugs, laughs, and spontaneous chats, make some of the best photos. You'll get a mix of formal and candid family moments throughout the day.