How to get gorgeous and relaxed group photos at your Hampshire wedding - By Stephanie Atkins Photography

Stephanie Atkins Photography
Jun 27
3 min read

Group photos are such an important part of your wedding day — they’re a chance to capture the people who mean the most to you, all together in one place. But they don’t have to be stiff or stressful! Here’s how to make them relaxed, beautiful, and even fun:

1. Plan Ahead

Before the big day, I will talk to you and send you a questionnaire advising to have about

10 formal group shots - MAX!

Create a list of must-have group combinations - think about which ones you will put in the frame or print in your album; immediate family, wedding party and any other special guests and write it in a succinct order so people aren't coming in and out too often.

Each group photos takes about 4 mins, so a list of 10 is 40 mins.

e,g. Partner 1 & 2 are in every photo with:

Partner 1's grandparents

Partner 1's parents 

Partner 1's parents and siblings

Partner 1's parents, siblings and their partners

Partner 1's sibling/s

Partner 2's grandparents

Partner 2's parents 

Partner 2's parents and siblings

Partner 2's parents, siblings and their partners

Partner 2's sibling/s

Wedding party x2

2. Do some photos before the ceremony

Be ready with plenty of time before needing to leave for you ceremony for photos with your groomsmen, parents and bridesmaids. In most circumstances I can make it to the ceremony location with enough time to do a few shots of Partner 2's wedding party, or maybe consider having a second shooter for the day.

These were taken pre-wedding ceremony;

3. Choosing the right place for the group shots

The best group photos happen in good light with enough space and a nice backdrop- ideally outdoors in open shade or soft golden hour glow. I will discuss with you before hand possible locations but will scope out a place that is best on that day for the specific light.

4. Choosing the right time

I usually allow you time to greet some guests, get a drink and relax with your new spouse for 15 mins or so. It's best to get the photos done as soon as possible to ensure that people don't wander off (letting people know beforehand that they will be in the group shots is also ideal) and ensure that children haven't already found the one muddy patch or spilled a drink down themselves or someone else.

5. Let me take the lead

You don’t need to worry about arranging people or directing poses — that’s what I'm there for. I will guide everyone naturally, keep things lighthearted, and even make you laugh.

6. Don’t Be Afraid to Get a Bit Candid

Once you’ve done the formal photos, I will go around and get informal/candid shots of your guests and get photos of small family groups etc. These are often the moments you’ll treasure most in the final photos.

BIG Group Photo

Please consider how much you want this photo. It does often depend on the light and location as to wether it is possible but I will always do me best/stand on a chair, climb a ladder or hang out of a window to make it happen.