Create Your Master Shot List

  • Begin planning at least two months before the wedding by working closely with your photographer to develop a comprehensive list of essential group combinations
  • Organise shots in a logical sequence, starting with immediate family and moving outward to extended family groupings
  • Keep a digital copy of your shot list and share it with key members of the wedding party for reference

Appoint Your Photo Coordinator

  • Select a confident, organised person who knows most family members on both sides
  • Ensure they understand their role includes gathering people efficiently and maintaining the schedule
  • Give them a printed copy of the shot list with names clearly marked and any special considerations noted

Choose the Perfect Location

  • Select a spot that balances beautiful backdrops with practical considerations like elderly access
  • Identify an indoor backup location that can accommodate your largest group shots
  • Ensure the area has adequate lighting and enough space for your photographer to work effectively

Communication Is Key

  • Distribute the photo schedule to all family members via multiple channels (email, WhatsApp, printed copies)
  • Include specific timing, location details, and what to wear
  • Send reminder messages two days before the wedding to ensure everyone remembers their time slots

Navigate Family Dynamics

  • Plan sensitive groupings thoughtfully, such as divorced parents or blended families
  • Consider scheduling potentially awkward combinations separately to maintain a comfortable atmosphere
  • Brief your photographer about any delicate situations they should be aware of

Time Management

  • Allocate no more than 3-4 minutes per group combination
  • Factor in transition time between different group configurations
  • Build in a small buffer for unexpected delays or last-minute adjustments

Photographer Briefing Essentials

  • Schedule a detailed discussion with your photographer at least two weeks before the wedding
  • Provide them with your final shot list, highlighting absolute priority photos
  • Share any specific family traditions or cultural considerations that need to be captured

📸 Essential Wedding Photo Group Combinations Guide

A well-organised photo list keeps your photography session running smoothly while ensuring you capture all those precious family moments.

Core Family Combinations

  • Bride + Groom + Bride’s Parents
  • Bride + Groom + Groom’s Parents
  • Bride + Groom + Both Sets of Parents
  • Bride + Parents
  • Groom + Parents
  • Bride + Siblings
  • Groom + Siblings
  • Bride + Groom + All Siblings

Extended Family Groups

  • Bride + Groom + Bride’s Extended Family (including grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins)
  • Bride + Groom + Groom’s Extended Family
  • Bride + Grandmother(s)
  • Groom + Grandmother(s)
  • Bride + Groom + All Grandparents

Wedding Party Shots

  • Full Wedding Party (all bridesmaids + groomsmen)
  • Bride + All Bridesmaids
  • Groom + All Groomsmen
  • Bride + Maid of Honour
  • Groom + Best Man
  • Bride + Flower Girl(s)
  • Groom + Page Boy(s)

Special Combinations

  • Bride + Groom + Children (if applicable)
  • University Friends Group
  • Childhood Friends Group
  • Colleagues Group (if desired)

Pro Tips:

  • Schedule larger groups first while everyone is fresh and present
  • Keep formal shot combinations to around 15-20 maximum
  • Allow 3-4 minutes per combination
  • List specific names under each grouping to avoid confusion
  • Note any mobility issues or special considerations next to relevant groups

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