Perfect Bridal Party Photos Without the Stress
Groups shots will be a breeze with these wedding photography hacks
The majority of wedding photographers would agree that couples should have at least a few group shots in their wedding album. Nothing overly formal, or staged. Just some relaxed, natural-looking photos of the bridal party that really capture the feeling of the day.
When planning the timeline for your wedding, it can be tempting to cut or reduce time spent taking shots of friends and family together. Through fear of long periods of time spent standing in front of the camera, or a worry about the stressful organization of it all. And those are valid concerns. But there are super easy ways you can avoid both of those issues, and in turn create beautiful bridal party photos!
Stress-Free Bridal Party Photos Advice
Stop worrying about getting the gang together, and start planning where you’re going to hang the photos!
A Shared Vision
The easiest way to sidestep bridal party photos stress is with planning. Before the wedding day, share your vision for how you want the group shots to look with your photographer, and go over your timeline together.
A professional wedding photographer will know how long each shot should take, and will ensure everything is done on time. But only if you’ve mutually agreed on what the priorities are beforehand, and keep to the plan on the day.
Time Group Shots Carefully
The best bridal party photos are captured when everyone is fresh. Before the ceremony, or perhaps after the first look, are two typically good times to schedule them in for. Getting them out of the way before the ceremony also helps the rest of the day feel more relaxed. Knowing that a major part of the day is already ticked off.
Trust Your Photographer
Not matter how excitable, or awkward your bridal party are, an experienced wedding photographer will get the best out of them. They’ll break the ice straight away, get the group laughing and set a fun vibe for the session. Which will help everyone naturally get into the groove of being photographed.
They’ll also have scouted out the best locations for the group to be in, and put everyone in the optimal position for natural light. Ensuring everyone looks radiant and not squinting into the sun!
Give Yourself Time
Bridal party photos can be carefully planned, and a professional wedding photographer will know exactly how long they should take. But if someone goes missing, or has an issue when it’s time to shoot, things might overrun…
Add a decent buffer to each photography session to allow for unforeseen eventualities, and you’ll save yourself a lot of schedule stress on the day.
Limit the Number of Different Shots
When planning bridal party photos, have a good think about where each group shot will one day be presented. Can you imagine where certain pictures will hang in your home? If you can’t, then maybe it shouldn’t be on your shot list.
Some family members may ask for certain shots, and if it works with the schedule, feel free to include them. But you should never feel obliged to capture more group shots than necessary.
Aim for less than 10 different group shots. Anymore than that and you’ll risk getting bored with taking photos, and delay spending quality time with loved ones.
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer in Kitchener, Toronto, or anywhere in-between – I’d love to have a chat with you!
You are welcome to browse my various portfolios, and if you like what you see, please feel free to inquire about availability for your wedding date.
