5 Tips for Perfect Wedding Day Family Photos

5 Tips for Perfect Wedding Day Family Photos

Family photos are an important part of any wedding. They capture the love and support of your loved ones on your special day. However, taking family photos can be a challenge, especially if you have a large family or if you're short on time.

As a Northern Illinois wedding photographer who travels to any location, I've learned a few tips to help you get perfect family photos on your wedding day.

1. Create a family combination list.

This will help you stay organized and ensure that you get all the photos you want. Be sure to include all the different family combinations you want to photograph, such as parents, siblings, grandparents, and extended family.

2. Communicate with your family.

Let your family know ahead of time when and where the family photos will be taken. This will help them to be prepared and on time.

3. Keep it simple.

Don't try to pose your family too much. Let them be themselves and enjoy the moment.

4. Use natural light.

If possible, take your family photos outdoors in natural light. This will help to create beautiful, flattering photos.

5. Have fun!

Remember, family photos are supposed to be fun. Relax and enjoy the moment with your loved ones.

Here are some additional tips:

• Use a professional photographer!!! A professional photographer will know how to pose your family and get the best possible photos.
• Consider the ages and mobility of your family members when planning your family photos.
• Choose a location with good lighting, or confirm your photographer utilizes a flash in less than ideal lighting situations. 
• Use props to add interest to your photos
• Get your photos printed and framed

Family photo ideas:

Depending on the style of family portraits you are going for, natural, intimate, traditional, etc. 

• Have your family hold hands and smile at the camera
• Have your family members hug each other
• Take a photo of your family with the wedding cake
• Take a photo of your family with the wedding flowers
• Use layers, not everyone needs to be standing. Sitting and standing combinations can add variety.

List of wedding day family photo combinations:

 Immediate Family:

• Parents of the bride and groom
• Siblings of the bride and groom
• Grandparents of the bride and groom

 Extended Family:

• Aunts and uncles of the bride and groom
• Cousins of the bride and groom
• Other close family friends

 Combined Family Groups:

•  Bride and groom with their parents
•  Bride and groom with their siblings
•  Bride and groom with their grandparents
•  Bride and groom with their aunts and uncles
•  Bride and groom with their cousins
•  All of the above combined

Remember, the most important thing is to capture the love and connection between your family members on your wedding day.