Put it in the Family Album!

Wedding Photography Albums

So, Covid-19 really pulled the rug from under wedding photographer’s feet.

One minute I was excitedly preparing for a really busy season, with lovely couples who had not only invested heavily in their carefully planned wedding day, but who had also placed their trust in my skills to deliver a beautifully balanced collection of memories; something to pass down the generations.

It was this that sparked the question of how I could put some of this spare time to good use; I know,  I’ll write a blog… on what? Family I thought…

So why family? Well every wedding throws its own curveball, often during our final meeting when I run through a sensible timeframe, to allow plenty of socialising but with pockets of time allocated to the romantic imagery, fun pictures with the bridesmaids and groomsmen and, of course, the family shots!

Did I just hear a groan? Well possibly so, but at no other time can I remember the world missing and appreciating their family more; what’s the saying “absence makes the heart grow fonder?”

I can empathise with this because, being an only child of older parents, I don’t have any family at all… and nope I’ve never married (not for the want of trying) nor had kids, so it is just me and … the dog!

So when we get down to the question of just who is in your immediate family, the couple look at each other, then me, then sigh and we begin to determine just who is and isn’t included.

Don’t get me wrong, we’ve all heard about weddings when the family photo’s   drag on and on, however a carefully thought out list, discreetly arranged by the photographer, assistant and helped by a key bridesmaid (no loud roll call by toastmasters please!) can ensure you really do have a few special groups, informally taken, that will benefit generations to come… and at unexpected times like these, you will treasure them forever.

I always build upwards on these groups, keeping it quick, polite, fun; here’s a suggestion for you to work from (I can suggest a few alternatives should there be separated families!)

1. B&G plus Mr & Mrs Smith
2. As above plus Sister, hubby and child
3. As above plus Brother
4.  As above plus Grandparents
5.  As above plus Brothers (newish) girlfriend
6. B& G plus Mr & Mrs Smith & Mr & Mrs Jones
7. B&G plus Mr & Mrs Jones
8. As above plus Sister and her baby
9. Brother and wife
10. Brother and partner
11. As above plus Grandparents

This complete set will take no more than 15 minutes if skilfully organised yet will become invaluable for years to follow.

We often use this time for my second shooter to take candid variations of these groups, whilst people are totally unaware, showing their relaxed expressions and true character; perfect in black & white to compliment the main shots.

What about the 20 other aunts & uncles? We cover these informally as they tend to gather in groups during the drinks reception, so with a friendly smile they group together easily, keeping the whole event relaxed.

So next time you visit a wedding, and I really hope it will be this summer, watch the fun of those family moments and imagine who will be looking at the pictures in 100 years!

Jaine B-P

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