Key Takeaways

Types of Wedding Day Portraits

Family Formals

Structured portraits of family combinations. Usually done immediately after the ceremony. These are the shots grandparents frame—take them seriously.

Wedding Party

Bridal party and groomsmen group shots, plus combinations (all bridesmaids, all groomsmen, full party).

Couple Portraits

Just the bride and groom. Usually the most creative, personal shots of the day. Often scheduled during golden hour for best light.

Family Formal Portraits

Creating a Shot List

Before the wedding, get a family formal list from the couple. Standard combinations:

• Couple with bride's parents
• Couple with bride's parents and siblings
• Couple with bride's immediate family + spouses/children
• Bride with her parents
• Bride with her mom, bride with her dad
• [Repeat for groom's side]
• Couple with all parents
• Couple with all grandparents
• Any special requests (godparents, step-families, etc.)

Managing Family Dynamics

Wedding families can be complicated—divorced parents, step-families, family tensions:

• Get information from the couple beforehand about any sensitivities
• Never ask about relationships in front of the group
• Have a coordinator or the couple help organize people
• Keep energy high—don't let awkwardness settle
• Move quickly and confidently

Technical Approach

• Aperture: f/5.6-f/8 for groups (ensure everyone in focus)
• Focus: Focus on the front row of faces
• Light: Open shade or overcast is easiest; avoid dappled light
• Flash: Fill flash helps balance exposure and add catchlights

Wedding Party Portraits

Standard Groupings

• Full wedding party together
• Couple with bridesmaids
• Couple with groomsmen
• Bride with bridesmaids only
• Groom with groomsmen only
• Individual portraits of each member with the couple

Creative Group Shots

Beyond the standard lineup, try:

• Walking shots (natural movement)
• Candid interaction moments
• Fun/silly shots if the group's energy supports it
• Architectural framing using venue elements

Arranging Large Groups

• Vary heights—use stairs, walls, levels
• Stagger people (don't line up directly behind each other)
• Couple always at center or focal point
• Consider body angles—not everyone faces straight at camera
• Watch for hands—give people something to do with them

Couple Portrait Sessions

Timing Options

First Look (Before Ceremony):

• Pros: More time, better light options, less stress later
• Cons: Some couples prefer ceremony reveal

Between Ceremony and Reception:

• Pros: Emotional high from ceremony, traditional
• Cons: Limited time, guests waiting, potentially lost golden hour

Golden Hour (Sneak Away):

• Pros: Best light, relaxed couple (after stress of formals)
• Cons: Requires stepping away from reception

First Look Execution

The first look is when the couple sees each other before the ceremony. Here's how to execute it:

1. Scout a private location with good light
2. Position the groom facing away
3. Have the bride approach and tap his shoulder
4. Position yourself to capture his turn and reaction
5. Give them space for the moment
6. Then direct into couple portraits

Couple Session Flow

A typical 30-minute couple session:

1. 0-5 min: Walking shots, movement, warming up
2. 5-15 min: Posed portraits at primary location
3. 15-20 min: Move to second location
4. 20-30 min: More portraits, creative shots, wide scenics

Time Management

Realistic Timing

Know how long things actually take:

• Family formals: 2-3 minutes per combination
• Full family list (15-20 combos): 30-45 minutes
• Wedding party groups: 15-20 minutes
• Couple portraits: 20-30 minutes minimum

When Time Runs Short

• Prioritize: What absolutely must happen?
• Combine shots: Both families together if needed
• Skip walking/transition shots
• Keep couple portraits—these are irreplaceable
• Stay calm—rushed energy creates bad photos

Location Selection

What to Look For

• Good light: Open shade, backlight opportunities, avoiding harsh sun
• Clean backgrounds: Avoid distracting elements, exit signs, trash cans
• Depth: Backgrounds that allow subject separation
• Variety: Multiple spots for different looks
• Accessibility: Can the dress get there? Is it far from the venue?

Hawaii Location Considerations

Technical Tips for Portraits

Lens Selection

• 85mm f/1.4-1.8: Classic portrait compression, beautiful bokeh
• 35mm f/1.4: Environmental portraits, full-length with context
• 70-200mm f/2.8: Versatility, subject isolation, can compress backgrounds
• 24-70mm f/2.8: Groups to couples in one lens

Aperture Decisions

• f/1.4-1.8: Single subject, maximum blur
• f/2.0-2.8: Couples close together
• f/4.0: Small groups or couples with space between them
• f/5.6-8: Large groups, everyone in focus

Focus Strategy

• Eye autofocus for single subjects and couples
• For groups, focus on the front row at roughly 1/3 depth into the group
• Check focus on the back of your LCD—don't assume

Summary

Portrait sessions require balancing artistry with efficiency:

• Preparation: Get shot lists in advance, scout locations
• Family formals: Work largest to smallest, move quickly, manage dynamics
• Wedding party: Mix standard and creative shots
• Couple portraits: Prioritize golden hour when possible
• Time management: Know realistic timings, have a plan when running late
• Technical: Appropriate aperture for group size, verify focus

These images become heirlooms. Approach them with the seriousness they deserve while keeping the energy light and the session enjoyable.