We’re just gonna come out and say it. Family photos are the most hectic part of the wedding day.

POV: your ceremony ends and all your relatives are coming up for hugs, absolutely nobody is listening to the photographer, uncle Carl already left for the bar, and grandma is asking for photos that aren’t on the shot list.

We’ll be the first to say – It doesn’t have to be this way! There are so many things you can do to minimize the stress of family photos, which we cover in this episode.

The most important thing you can do to avoid family photo chaos is to give your photographer a detailed list of photos including specific names. This way they can simply yell out the names of every person in the photo and there’s no confusion. We always recommend keeping this list to the least amount of combinations while still making sure you get everyone you need!

Do you *actually* need a photo with each cousin, and then all the cousins, and then cousins and your aunt and uncle? Every family dynamic is different, but these are important things to think about.

Another thing to keep in mind is family photos are normally taken during cocktail hour which is the best time for lighting. By having a long list of family photos, you’re cutting into time for your wedding portraits and golden hour photos (which in our opinion are the photos that you’ll really want). 

Next, make sure you tell each family member when and where family photos will take place that way they don’t wander off when they’re needed. Even asking the officiant to make an announcement immediately after the ceremony that family photos are happening is a great way to make sure that time goes smoothly!

Okay so we’ve cut down on our family photo list, but we still want to make sure everyone is in a photo. What can we do about that?

The reception is the best time to get a photo with anyone who wasn’t in the family photos. We recommend doing a large group photo on the dance floor or having guests come up to your sweetheart’s table before they get their meal.

Hopefully, you’re not too overwhelmed by these tips! It’s important to set your expectations that family photos can be stressful, and if they end up not being as bad as you thought, then great! As long as you have a great list and give people a heads up, your family photos will go smoothly.

Theme Music: “Yeah” by Havana Swim Club

Listen on Spotify

List on Apple Podcasts

Viby Creative Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vibycreative/