Family Photo Combinations Guide for Weddings


Family portraits are an important part of the wedding day, capturing cherished moments with the people closest to you. To ensure we get all the shots you want while keeping the photo session running smoothly, we've created this guide to help you plan out your family photo combinations.


1. Immediate Family Combinations

These are the core family groupings to ensure the most essential people are photographed with the couple.

  • Bride’s Side
  • Bride + Parents (Mom and Dad)
  • Bride + Mom
  • Bride + Dad
  • Bride + Siblings (if any)
  • Bride + Parents + Siblings
  • Bride + Grandparents (optional)
  • Groom’s Side
  • Groom + Parents (Mom and Dad)
  • Groom + Mom
  • Groom + Dad
  • Groom + Siblings (if any)
  • Groom + Parents + Siblings
  • Groom + Grandparents (optional)
  • Couple + Each Immediate Family
  • Couple + Bride's Parents
  • Couple + Bride's Immediate Family (Parents + Siblings)
  • Couple + Groom's Parents
  • Couple + Groom's Immediate Family (Parents + Siblings)

2. Extended Family Combinations

Once the immediate family photos are taken, we can include extended family members like aunts, uncles, cousins, and other relatives who are important to you.

  • Bride’s Extended Family
  • Bride + Aunts and Uncles
  • Bride + Cousins
  • Bride + Whole Family (Immediate + Extended)
  • Groom’s Extended Family
  • Groom + Aunts and Uncles
  • Groom + Cousins
  • Groom + Whole Family (Immediate + Extended)
  • Couple + Extended Families
  • Couple + Bride's Extended Family
  • Couple + Groom's Extended Family
  • Couple + Both Families Combined (Optional)


3. Special Family Groupings

These combinations highlight key relationships and sentimental groupings.

  • Parents + Couples Together
  • Couple + Both Sets of Parents (Bride’s and Groom’s parents together)
  • Generational Photos
  • Couple + Grandparents (optional for both Bride and Groom’s side)
  • Couple + Parents + Grandparents (for a multi-generational shot)
  • Siblings + Their Families
  • Bride or Groom + Siblings + Their Spouses/Partners
  • Couple + Siblings + Their Spouses/Partners + Children (if applicable)
  • Cousins
  • Bride or Groom + Cousins
  • Couple + Cousins from both sides


4. In-Law Groupings

Ensure to capture the special relationship with new in-laws:

  • Bride + Groom’s Parents
  • Groom + Bride’s Parents
  • Bride + Groom’s Siblings
  • Groom + Bride’s Siblings


5. Combined Families

To ensure both sides are well-represented, you can take some shots with the couple and both families together.

  • Couple + Both Families (Immediate)
  • Couple + Both Families (Immediate + Extended)


6. Special Requests & Unique Family Dynamics

  • If your family has unique dynamics (step-parents, blended families, etc.), please let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly and ensure no one is missed.
  • We can also include specific people outside of the family who are important to you (e.g., godparents, family friends, etc.).


7. Timing and Considerations

Family photos usually happen either right after the ceremony or during the cocktail hour. To help keep the process smooth and efficient:

  • Assign a Family Member: Appoint someone from each family who knows everyone to help organize and gather family members during the photo session.
  • Make a Shot List: Decide in advance which combinations are most important to you so we can prioritize and fit them into the schedule.


8. Tips for Success

  • Keep it Concise: The more family combinations, the more time it takes. Prioritize must-have shots to ensure you’re spending enough time enjoying your day.
  • Stay Relaxed: Family photos can be hectic with so many people, but we'll guide you through the process. Just enjoy the moment and let us do the organizing.
  • Communicate: Let us know of any special circumstances, relationships, or important people you want to highlight in the photos.


Bride in white gown holding sunflower bouquet poses with partner in dark suit against wooden backdrop.
Bride in lace gown holds sunflower bouquet while posing with guest in lavender dress.
Wedding guests in formal attire pose against rustic wooden barn door background.
Large wedding party group photo in front of rustic barn with wooden doors.