Wedding group photos take about two minutes per group, so ten groups need around 20 minutes plus ten for one big photo with everyone. That only works with a written list and one person who calls the guests. You come out of the ceremony, everyone wants to congratulate you, the champagne gets warm, and someone shouts: "Quick, the family photos now!" Forty-five minutes later you are still looking for the uncle who is smoking somewhere. It does not have to go like that.
How long it really takes
The sum is simple: about two minutes per group, plus roughly ten minutes for one big photo with everyone. Without a list it quickly turns into double, because between every group people have to be found, called and talked into it.
The order that goes fastest
The trick: start with the biggest group and let people go as you work down. That way nobody waits who is already done, and nobody has to be hunted down later.
- All guestsWhile everyone is still there. From a staircase, a balcony or with a drone.
- Bride's extended familyAunts, uncles, cousins. After that they are free to go.
- Bride's close familyParents, siblings with partners and children, grandparents.
- Bride's parentsThe two of you with the bride's parents.
- Same for the groomExtended family, then close family, then parents.
- Witnesses, friendsLast, because this is usually the fun one, and you can see it in the photos.
Grandparents first, and seated if they cannot stand for long. Small children right at the start, before they get tired.
The list
This is the most important part. Write down every group with names, and give the list to your photographer and to one family member who knows everyone. That person calls, the photographer photographs.
- BeforeA list with names, not just "bride's family"
- BeforeChoose a caller who is loud and knows everyone
- BeforePick a spot with shade, not the full midday sun
- On the dayTell everyone while they congratulate you: please do not wander off
- On the dayBags, sunglasses and glasses to the side for a moment
I want to get the group photos done quickly, just like you. When the list is ready and someone is calling, we are usually finished before the champagne gets warm.
Gabriel Höllrigl, wedding photographer from Naturno (South Tyrol)The photo with all the guests
It is the picture many families look at most in later years. It works best from above: everyone looks up, and nobody disappears behind your aunt's hat. In South Tyrol many churches have a staircase or an inn with a balcony nearby. Where that is not possible, I use a drone, with permission and only where it is allowed.
After that the compulsory part is over. How the rest of the photos turn out relaxed and natural is in Not into posing?
Frequently asked questions
How long do wedding group photos take?
With a good list, about two minutes per group. Ten groups come to roughly 20 minutes, plus about 10 minutes for one big photo with all your guests.
How many group photos do you need?
Eight to twelve groups is almost always enough. Every extra group costs two more minutes in which your guests wait and you are not having a drink.
When is the best time for group photos?
Right after the congratulations, while everyone is still there and fresh. Later people spread out, and half of your aunt's group is at the bar.
Who should round up the guests?
A witness or a family member who knows everyone and has a loud voice. The photographer does not know your aunt by name.
How do you get a photo with all the guests?
From above: from a staircase, a balcony, a window or with a drone. Everyone looks up, so every face is visible. Plan about ten minutes for it.