As a couple preparing for your big day, you’re likely envisioning the perfect wedding – a day filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. And for a wedding photographer, capturing those precious moments is not just an art but a well-coordinated effort. One crucial aspect of wedding photography is the family portraits session, a time when you gather with your loved ones to capture timeless memories. To make this process smooth and enjoyable, it’s essential to plan ahead and streamline your shot list.

Crafting the Perfect Family Shot List

In our final meeting before your wedding day, we’ll go over your family shot list. Having a well-thought-out list helps us create beautiful portraits efficiently. The key is balance – capturing essential moments without getting caught in an endless loop of variations. Your initial list, while comprehensive, ensures that we focus on the most significant relationships. It’s all about quality over quantity. When we schedule the meeting we will send an example.

Family Shot List Example

1. Groom and grooms parents 
2. B&G and grooms parents 
3. B&G and grooms parents and siblings 
4. B&G and grooms grandparents 
5. B&G and both B&G’s parents 
6. Bride and brides parents 
7. B&G and brides parents 
8. B&G and brides parents and siblings
9. B&G and brides grandparents
   

The Importance of Sticking to the List

During the family portraits, time is of the essence. Each setup takes 1-2 minutes, and any delays can create anxiety and impact the schedule. We appreciate that everyone wants a photo with you, but adhering to the pre-approved list ensures that we move swiftly to other essential activities, like bridal party photos and your portraits as a couple.

Introducing the Photo Dash – A Unique Solution

To ensure you have a moment with every guest without disrupting the flow of the day, we’ve introduced the Photo Dash! This high-energy activity takes place during the reception, while everyone is seated, either before or after toasts. With the lively song “Footloose” playing, the bride, groom, and I will dash around tables to capture quick photos. Tabatha, our assistant, ensures the tables are ready, allowing us to cover 25 tables in just 3-4 minutes!

Benefits of the Photo Dash

Efficiency: It’s a rapid and efficient way to get photos with every single guest.

Time-Saving: By completing formalities early, you get more time to relax and enjoy the rest of the evening.

Opportunity for Missed Photos: This is the perfect opportunity to capture candid moments with friends, college roommates, sorority sisters, distant relatives, and other guests you might have missed during family portraits.

In embracing the Photo Dash, you not only save time but also ensure that your wedding day is filled with unforgettable moments. As your wedding photographer, my goal is to make the photography process seamless, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – celebrating your love surrounded by friends and family.

Looking forward to capturing your special day and creating memories that will last a lifetime!