As an experienced Colorado wedding photographer, I have photographed celebrations in private estates, mountain resorts, and luxury ballrooms across the state and country. I help couples plan their timeline to make the most of their day and of their photography, which should always include family photos.

One of the most meaningful parts of your wedding day isn’t always the most photographed on Instagram, it’s the time spent with family.

These are the images your parents will frame.
The ones your grandparents will treasure.
The photographs that quietly become part of your family history.

But without a plan, family portraits can quickly feel rushed or overwhelming.

Here’s how to approach them with intention and ease.

1. Decide What Matters Most

Before your wedding day, sit down with your partner and make a numbered list of immediate family combinations that truly matter to you.

Start with:

1. Couple + both sets of parents
2. Couple + siblings
3. Couple + grandparents
4. Each partner with their immediate family

From there, add meaningful extended family groupings if time allows.

A helpful guideline: if someone would be deeply hurt by not being included, add them to the list.

2. Keep the List Focused

The ideal number of formal groupings is typically 8–15.

More than that, and portraits begin to feel long and take away from your time with guests.

Remember: your wedding day should feel celebratory, not like a corporate photo session.

A refined, intentional list keeps things elegant and efficient. However, I am ready to take as many or as few as you wish and to be flexible if things change.

The order of the list is important too. Decide if you wish to start with the bride’s family or groom’s family. Creating a list that adds and then subtracts can be most efficient to keep people from having to go in and out and in and out of photos.

For Example:
1. Bride with Mom, Dad
2. Bride and Groom with Mom and Dad
3. Bride and Groom with Mom, Dad, Sister and Brother
4. Bride with Sister and Brother

3. Assign a “Family Coordinator”

Choose one trusted person from each side of the family who:

• Knows most relatives by name

• Is comfortable gathering people

• Can gently but firmly keep things moving

This prevents you from having to track down Uncle Dave while trying to stay present.

Your only job during portraits should be to stand, smile, and soak it in.

4. Timing Is Everything

There are typically two ideal options:

Option One: Immediately After the Ceremony
Everyone is already present and dressed. Sometimes this option works best if anyeon cannot arrive before the ceremony. This may include member of the family who are babies and young children, elderly members of the family or anyone who has mobility concerns.

Option Two: Before the Ceremony
Perfect if you’re doing a first look and want to enjoy cocktail hour uninterrupted. 
This is also a great time to plan all the wedding party portraits.

Whichever you choose, build in 20–30 minutes for immediate family portraits.

If you have a larger extended family, allow closer to 45 minutes.

5. Communicate in Advance

Family portraits go smoothly when expectations are clear.

Before the wedding day:

• Share the portrait timeline with family

• Let them know exactly when and where to gather

• Remind them to stay nearby until dismissed

Clarity eliminates chaos.

6. Trust the Process

On the wedding day, emotions run high.

Someone may wander off.
Someone may blink.
Someone may insist on “just one more.”

This is where having an experienced wedding photographer makes all the difference.

With a clear list and gentle direction, family portraits can feel calm, organized, and even joyful.

And when they’re done efficiently, you get back to what matters most: celebrating.

If we have to skip over a photo, we can always plan it into the reception to make sure you get photos with everyone who is important to you.

7. Large Groups

It can feel overwhelming to get every group you want during the short time you have for group photos during cocktail hour. If there are any groups you want to include it can be best to plan for those photos during the reception. For example: college friends, sorority sisters, extended cousins, etc. 

8. A Real Life Sample

Before ceremony:

Wedding Party (3:30-4)

1. Bride and Groom and flower girls (eve & abby)
2. B&G + Bridal party + flower girls
3. B&G + Bridal party (in a line, looking at each other, walking)
4. Bride with each bridesmaids, and as a group
5. Groom with each groomsmen and as a group
6. All guys with golf clubs

Family (4-4:30)

1. Groom + sisters
2. G+ brothers in law (3)
3. G+ Dad
4. G+ Mom and Dad
5. G+ Mom
6. B&G+ groom’s immediate family
7. B&G+ both immediate families
8. B&G+ all parents (Erik, Gwen, Alan, Barbara)
9. B&G+ bride’s immediate family
10. B+ Mom
11. B+ Mom and Dad
12. B+ Dad
13. B+ brothers
14. B+ sisters in law (2)

AFTER CEREMONY: Family Portraits, 6:00, front lawn

1. B&G with bride’s Grandparents
2. B&G with groom’s Grandma
3. B&G with Great Aunt Grace
   
   

A Final Thought

Years from now, the florals will be gone.
The cake will be forgotten.
The trends will have shifted.

But these photographs, with your parents’ arms around you, with grandparents smiling proudly, will remain.

Plan them with care.

If you’re currently planning your wedding and would like guidance creating a seamless portrait timeline, I’d love to help. Reach out here to begin the conversation and to see more samples.