Family Formals can be messy and complicated. The bigger the family, the more combinations there are, which can lead to stress. Luckily, there are many ways to make sure formals go smoothly and quickly, producing the best photographs possible.
As a wedding photographer I have learned efficient way of making sure I capture all the family is to make a list. Five weeks before the wedding, I will send you a questionnaire with several combinations. All you have to do on your part is check the images you desire me to take, and I will make them a priority during the family portraits.
The best time for family photos are right after the wedding ceremony. However, if you are doing a “first look,” then right after that would also be a good time. The key proponent here is that everyone is around and is still looking fresh. These family photos only take about 15-20 minutes, so as soon as we are done they can go enjoy the rest of the day. This way we won’t have to pull them away or try to hunt them down.
Like with everything, lighting and background is important. Sometimes that means we can’t always use the amazing view due to the fact that when I take a photograph, I’m exposing the image for your skin tones and not the background. A clean dark background in the shade works better than a busy and bright background. When the ceremony is in a church I suggest taking the family photos outside with natural light in a shaded location. This provides soft, even light, which again, will make your pictures come out stunning.
If there are elderly family members in your photographs it is best to work backwards with the largest family photo first and then start to dismiss those family members. This way they are not standing around waiting for their photo to be taken.
Here Is An Example Of A Standard Wedding:
Bride’s Family Wedding Photos List
Bride with Bride’s Mom
Bride with Bride’s Dad
Bride, Groom, with Bride’s Mom, Dad
Bride, Groom, with Bride’s Mom, Dad, and Siblings
Bride, Groom, with Bride’s Mom, Dad, Siblings and their significant others and kids
Groom's Family Wedding Photo List
Groom with Groom’s Mom
Groom with Groom’s Dad
Groom and Bride with Groom’s Mom, Dad
Groom and Bride with Groom’s Mom, Dad, and siblings
Groom and Bride with Groom’s Mom, Dad, Siblings and their significant others and kids
Both sides for one large family photo.
Family formals are best when pre-prepared. It is important to sit down with your significant other and make your own list, finding the best combinations for you and your entire family. You want this day to be stress free and not even have to worry about who is going to be in what photo. That is why giving your photographer a list, or in my case, simply checking off what kind of family photo combinations you want for your big day.
