What is a formal photo list?
Formal group shots are posed photographs you take with family and friends. This traditional aspect of the day holds significant value, as family members appreciate having these photos as keepsakes. Creating a list of key family members for your photographer is essential, as they may not know who is significant to you.
Including a formal photography session in your day is not mandatory. However, if you choose to skip it, we cannot guarantee that we will capture images of important family members. Rest assured, if you opt for a formal photography session, it will be conducted as quickly and relaxed as possible.
A guide to putting together a formal photographs list.
My tips on helping your formal photographs run smoothly
Keep the list Short and Sweet – Aim for Eight Groups
Most people prefer natural, candid photography, so keep your formal photo list short. I recommend limiting it to around eight groups to balance capturing key moments and keeping things moving.
Plan for 2-5 Minutes Per Group
The time taking to organise each group and take the photo is usually between 2-5 minutes so you can use this as a guide to how long your formal photo list will take.
Minimise Variations
Consider one larger group shot per family instead of taking multiple small group photos. This keeps the process efficient while still ensuring everyone is included.
Share the List in Advance
Guests can easily wander off to chat or grab a drink, unaware of how much time they’re taking. To avoid delays, send your formal photo list to everyone involved beforehand and ask them to be ready when needed.
Make It Easy for Your Photographer
For a smoother process, include first names and relationships on your list. If a guest has an uncommon name, phonetic spelling is a great help! This allows your photographer to call people quickly and correctly.
Organise Your List Wisely
Start with the largest group first, then gradually remove people for smaller shots. Also, consider the needs of elderly or less mobile family members—photograph them early so they can return to their seats comfortably.
Implementing the list.
Before the wedding, please nominate two people to help gather guests for the formal photos. Ideally, choose one person familiar with one side of the family and another who knows the other.
Closer to the wedding day, I’ll text them the shot list and some helpful tips so they have everything they need on their phones to keep things running smoothly.
On the day.
Expect to smile, have fun, and enjoy your formal wedding photos! I’ll ensure we get through them as quickly and smoothly as possible so you can soon relax with a well-deserved drink and enjoy time with your guests.
