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Group wedding photos don’t have to be a stiff, time-stealing lineup. Most couples only need 6–10 key groups, a clear list, and one confident “wrangler” who knows everyone. Done this way, you’ll get the family legacy shots and keep the day feeling like… your actual wedding.
Group wedding photos are one of those things couples either love (hello, parents and grandparents) or dread (hello, awkward shuffling and people vanishing to the bar). However, here’s the truth: you don’t need loads of them, you just need the right ones, done quickly, in great light, without killing the vibe.
We’re Marta May Photography – also known as The Mays (Marta + Artur). TWIA National Winners 2023 and TWIA Judges (2024–present), DOCU-ART photographers, which means we’re here for the real stuff: laughter mid-sentence, happy tears, and the “how is this my life?” chaos. So when it comes to group shots, we keep them natural, fast, and kind – a tiny bit of calm direction, and then you’re straight back to hugging your people.
In this post, you’ll get:
The simple list most couples actually need (no fluff)
The fastest order so people aren’t in and out constantly
Time estimates so your timeline stays stress-free
7 practical tips that make group photos easy (even with kids + big families)
If you want group photos that feel like you – not a school photo day – you’re in the right place.
How many group wedding photos do you really need?
For most couples, 6–10 group wedding photos is the sweet spot. It covers the people who matter most (especially parents and grandparents), and it keeps the day flowing without turning your drinks reception into a roll call.
However, the number isn’t the real problem – the time lost gathering people is. That’s why a shorter list almost always wins. You get the “legacy” shots… and you still get to actually enjoy your wedding.
Our quick rule:
If you look at a group and think, “We’ll never frame that” – it doesn’t need to be on the list.
Timing cheat sheet (so your timeline stays calm)
6–10 groups: usually 15–30 minutes
Big “everyone” photo: usually 10–20 minutes (because people scatter)
Each small group: roughly 3–5 minutes
Add a buffer: +5–10 minutes for the “where’s Uncle Dave?” moments
And because we’re DOCU-ART photographers, we’ll keep the posing minimal. We’ll place you in good light, give tiny prompts so it feels natural, and then we’ll get you back to the fun – fast.
The simple group wedding photos list (Essentials, Standard, Extended)
If you want group wedding photos that feel easy, the secret is choosing a list that matches your day, not someone else’s checklist from 2012. So here are three options you can steal, depending on how much family/guest time you want to spend.
Essentials (6 groups, quick + meaningful)
1. Couple + both sets of parents
2. Couple + Partner A’s immediate family
3. Couple + Partner B’s immediate family
4. Couple + grandparents (if present)
5. Couple + siblings
6. Couple + wedding party
Standard (8–10 groups)
Everything in Essentials, plus:
7. Couple + Partner A’s extended family (one group)
8. Couple + Partner B’s extended family (one group)
9. Partner A + their parent(s)
10. Partner B + their parent(s)
Extended (only if you genuinely want it)
This is where time disappears – so only add these if they matter to you:
• A big “everyone” photo
• Friends groups (pick one or two, not ten)
• Special combinations (e.g., cousins, uni friends, sports team)
If you’re unsure, start with Essentials, then add only the groups that would actually make you happy to see on your wall in ten years.
The fastest order for group wedding photos (so nobody gets dragged in and out)
Here’s the trick that makes group wedding photos feel effortless: we don’t shoot them in the order you write them down – we shoot them in the order that’s quickest.
The “zero chaos” flow we use
1) Do the biggest groups first (because people disappear fast)
2) Get grandparents + anyone who needs a seat done early (comfort first, always)
3) Work through one family side from “big to small” (extended → immediate → parents → siblings)
4) Then repeat on the other side
5) Finish with wedding party + any friend groups (they’ll still be nearby)
This way, people aren’t yo-yoing in and out, and you’re not constantly waiting for someone who’s gone to the loo / bar / “just popped somewhere”.
One thing that changes everything: the Group Photo Wrangler
Pick one confident human who:
- knows the key people (and their faces)
- isn’t shy about calling names
- can keep it light and upbeat
Your photographer can’t possibly know who your “Cousin Sam” is on sight – but your wrangler can. And when those two team up, group photos fly by.
Pro tip: If family dynamics are complicated, tell us (quietly) in advance. We’ll plan the order so it feels respectful and calm – and you never have to do an awkward “who stands next to who?” moment in front of everyone.
Formal group pictures – the comments
The long lists of formal pictures are rather impractical so I’ve done some research and I’ve gathered some amazing thoughts on the group shots. This is exactly the type of the wedding group photos we’ve always tried to achieve. Big thanks to our awesome couples for giving us their feedback!
Natural looking group pictures
”I didn’t actually want any group shots because I prefer the more natural photographs, however, I’m so glad you convinced me otherwise. And even your ‘posed’ photographs look completely natural. Xx” – Sam
”I prefer natural shots. We only had minimal formal ones… I love the one of me and my bridesmaids, because it was going to be a formal one, but turned into the loveliest natural one!! One of my faves. Some of the later formal shots where we were lined up as if to take a formal pic, turned into a natural one as you captured it before we’d even realized it was going to be taken… defo natural shots every time! X” – Chloe
Remembering your loved ones
”Well.. I like the more natural approach to photography… But it’s a bit like school photography it simply has to be done, for the record… It does not happen often enough that families come together.. Its history in the making!” – Hilary
”From someone who was married many, many years ago – at the time I didn’t want any, but the photographer did them anyway…. Over time, as we sadly have said farewell to quite a few people who were part of our day, they have become very precious. There is something special about seeing everyone together, despite the fact that they are quite formal compared to the rest of our photos.” – Sue
Use your parents’ experience!
”I agree that it’s sort of something you feel you need to do (and mum says I have to do!) as it’s not often that the whole family is together, I do prefer the natural photos but the ones you’ve taken are the perfect balance!” – Jenn
”We had a lovely mixture of both. I wanted the few formal group photos just so I can see what everyone was wearing and remember who was there. The day goes so quickly it’s nice to see everyone all together. Plus it’s a chance to see all the family together and sadly if some of them have passed away, it’s a nice chance to remember them at our special day. I did love the more natural shots too.” – Sarah
”In years to come you’ll appreciate having photo’s of loved ones who are no longer with you” – Carolyn
Where to do group wedding photos (light, space, and a rain plan)
The best group wedding photos aren’t about “perfect posing” – they’re about good light, enough space, and not fighting the weather.
The best light (without getting technical)
Soft shade or bright overcast is ideal. It keeps faces flattering and avoids squinting.
If it’s blazing sunshine, we’ll find open shade (or turn you slightly away from the harsh light) so everyone looks comfortable and natural.
The best spot
We’re looking for:
- a clean background (no bins, cars, or exit signs stealing the show)
- space for bigger groups to step in quickly
- a place guests can access easily (especially grandparents)
The rain plan (because… UK)
We always choose a backup spot that works if it tips it down – like a covered terrace, a bright doorway, a sheltered courtyard, or a simple indoor space with enough room.
Because you shouldn’t have to gather everyone twice.
We’ll pick the spot, set it up fast, and keep the whole thing moving so you can get back to living your day. Below is the picture of one of the rainiest wedding days we’ve ever photographed, it was at Lyde Court, and look what we got – A DOUBLE RAINBOW!
How we keep group wedding photos feeling natural (DOCU-ART style)
If you’re imagining stiff lines, awkward hands, and that “school photo day” energy… breathe. That’s not how we do it.
DOCU-ART is our thing – real moments, real emotion, and a cinematic flow. So even when we’re doing “the formal bit”, we keep it warm, fast, and human.
Our approach in real life
We set you up, then we let you be you.
A little gentle direction (so everyone looks good), then tiny prompts that bring the connection back:
- “Squeeze in like you actually like each other.”
- “Look at each other for a second – not at us.”
- “Okay, now someone make Dad laugh.”
- “Right, quick hug… and we’re done.”
The goal
Group wedding photos should feel like:
- a mini celebration with your favourite people
- not a performance
- not a time penalty
- not a vibe killer
We’ll get the legacy shots your families will treasure, and then we’ll send you straight back to the hugs, canapés, and chaos – exactly where you’re meant to be.
7 tips for stress-free group wedding photos
These are the small things that make a massive difference – and they’re exactly why some couples finish group photos smiling… while others finish feeling like they’ve run a marathon.
1) Keep the list short (and make it realistic)
If you’ve got 30+ groups, it won’t feel “quick”. Start with Essentials, then add only what truly matters.
2) Write first names (not “Bride’s aunt + uncle”)
Your photographer won’t know who “Auntie Sue” is – but your family will. First names make everything smoother.
3) Choose your wrangler wisely
Pick someone confident, upbeat, and loud enough to be heard over the Prosecco energy. One wrangler = ten minutes saved.
4) Do kids photos early (small humans don’t do schedules)
If there are toddlers, babies, or easily distracted little legends… do their groups first, while they’re still fresh.
5) Tell people in advance
Put it in your order of the day, or ask your MC to announce:
“Group photos straight after the ceremony – please stay close for 15 minutes.”
6) Plan for weather, but don’t panic about it
Have a wet-weather spot, and trust your photographer. You don’t need a perfect forecast to get great photos.
7) Let your photographer reorder your list for speed
You might write the list in a way that makes sense emotionally. We’ll reorder it in a way that makes sense logistically – so people aren’t in and out constantly.
If you do just three things: keep it to 6–10 groups, pick a wrangler, and do it right after the ceremony… you’ll be amazed how easy it feels.
Gen Z, modern weddings, and why “vibes > poses” even applies to group photos
If you’re planning a modern wedding (and especially if you’re a little allergic to tradition for tradition’s sake), it’s completely normal to wonder if group wedding photos still matter.
Here’s the truth: they can matter a lot – but only when they’re done in a way that fits the day.
Gen Z and modern couples aren’t rejecting family photos. They’re rejecting staged perfection. They don’t want ten versions of the same lineup. They want the meaning of the photo – the people, the connection, the “this is our family” feeling – without it turning into a production.
So we treat group shots like a quick, happy checkpoint:
- You get the legacy photos your future self (and your parents) will love.
- It stays relaxed and human.
- Then it’s straight back to the fun.
Because the goal isn’t a perfect pose.
It’s a real memory, captured quickly – while everyone still feels like themselves.
Group wedding photos: quick FAQs
Do we have to do group wedding photos?
No. You can skip them entirely if that feels right for you. However, most couples choose a few because they matter to parents, grandparents – and future you.
How long do group wedding photos take?
A short list (6–10 groups) usually takes around 15–30 minutes. The biggest time-eater is gathering people, which is why a wrangler and a clear order makes everything faster.
When’s the best time to do them?
Straight after the ceremony is usually best – everyone’s together, emotions are high, and nobody’s wandered off yet. If you’d rather do them later, just make sure guests know when to be back.
What if family dynamics are complicated?
Tell your photographer in advance. We can plan combinations that feel calm and respectful, and we’ll keep it discreet so you’re not managing awkwardness in front of a crowd.
What if it rains?
No stress – we’ll pick a covered or indoor backup spot with good light and enough space. The goal is to do the groups once, quickly, and keep your day moving.
We hate posing – will group photos feel awkward?
They don’t have to. We’ll give light direction, keep it fast, and use tiny prompts so your groups look connected and natural – not stiff.
Ready to keep your group wedding photos easy (and still feel like you)?
If you want group wedding photos that are quick, natural, and genuinely joyful – we’d love to help.
We’re Marta May Photography, also known as The Mays (Marta + Artur). Our style is DOCU-ART: candid documentary moments, a cinematic flow, and portraits that still feel real. We’ll get the family “legacy” photos sorted fast… then we’ll disappear back into the hugs, laughter, and everything you actually want to remember.
Next step:
Check out our wedding photography prices & packages, or get in touch to see if we’re free for your date.
(And if you’d like, tell us roughly how many guests you’re having – we’ll suggest a group photo plan that fits your day without stealing your time.)
As always you smash it!! I didn’t actually realise I had questions surrounding this topic, but when I seen the title I all a sudden thought..’oohhhhh yeah??’ And after reading it completely, all questions has now been answered. Thanks Marta…your the best!!!xx
So glad you’ve found it useful Stacey! Always happy to help xx
Love your funny group shots, they are such nicer memories