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Wedding Tips

Family Formals Shot List Explained (+ FREE Templates) | Northern Virginia Wedding Photographer

I don’t think I’ve yet met any bride or groom that is excited for their family formals on their wedding day. Getting family members to cooperate for a photo can be a tall order. There’s always that one person in the family who HATES pictures or makes things a little more difficult. But I’ve learned so many strategies (including my organized family formals shot list) to help me whiz through these photos and send family off to cocktail hour happy! Is that possible??? It is! And I’m spilling my secrets to help you do it too.

I get lots of questions about family formals and the perfect family formals shot list. So I’m answering the frequently asked questions all in one post!

What are “Family Formals”?

How to create a family formals shot list for wedding | Virginia wedding photographer

Family formals is a term in the world of wedding photography that simply means formal portraits of your family members. By “formal” I mean a photo where everyone stands straight and smiles straight at the camera. It’s the traditional family picture we’ve taken for years, even back when all we had were painters to capture family group portraits.

The family formals part of the wedding day usually occurs immediately after the ceremony. It’s a chance for family to celebrate you by jumping in a photo while everyone is dressed to the nines. Sometimes this is the only photo Grandma will print, or the most recent photo you have of your entire family together in forever!

So while this can be a difficult part of the wedding day, the result is usually so worthwhile.

Who Should Stay for Family Formals?

This is really a question only you can answer! I can certainly provide some guidance. But ultimately you get one wedding day, so who is it that you want a photo with in your wedding dress? Who would you regret not getting a photo with if this was the only photo we got all day with them?

That said, we only have limited time for family formals. So I recommend brides and grooms learn to prioritize. Whoever we miss during family formals can often be captured at the reception. We should set aside this time for the extra special family members – usually parents, grandparents, and siblings.

How Do I Announce Who Should Stay for Family Formals?

It’s helpful to think ahead when it comes to family formals. I usually only allocate 20 minutes to get through the entire family formals shot list. This means we need family members to be attentive and ready to roll once the ceremony ends!

You can help family members understand whether they should stay behind for photos in a number of ways.

  1. Tell them ahead of time! Maybe even before the wedding day.
  2. Have the officiant announce it after you’ve processed as husband and wife.
  3. Assign one family member or bridal party member per side of the family to round up family members that stray off.

How Do I Communicate Delicate Family Dynamics With My Photographer?

Not all families look alike. I have photographed my fair share of weddings where there are delicate situations or blended family structures. The best way to let me know is during a call or in an email. I’m very understanding! I have my own share of less than ideal family dynamics, and my photographer had to dance around them too.

As a photographer, I want to know especially about the 3 D’s of family dynamics: Divorce, Deceased, Disability.

Divorce:

If your parents are not married or you have step-parents in the picture, please let me know! I have definitely put my foot in my mouth by accidentally trying to pose a Mom and Dad in a photo together, all to find out they’ve been divorced for over a decade.

Deceased:

My husband unfortunately has no living grandparents. So our family formals only included my grandparents. If I had not told my photographer, it would have been reasonable for her to look for “Grandma and Grandpa” on the groom’s side. How embarrassing that would be!

I’ve even been in situations where I’m photographing a wedding where the Bride lost her dad just months before. I am so glad I knew about it, because I would feel terrible if I resurfaced grief by asking where Dad was.

Disability:

Sometimes family members need special attention to stand for a photo. Whether it’s having my second shooter give grandma an arm to hold onto when walking into the photo or posing your family around a wheelchair-bound family member… the more I know the better. Remember, not all disabilities are obvious to everyone. I’d rather not be expected to just “pick up” that someone has special needs. The more transparent you can be, the better prepared I can be to lend a hand and make family formals easier for everyone!

What Does a Family Formals Shot List Look Like?

The first step is identifying who should be included. I ask my bride and groom who their family members are. In this step of the process, I always ask for names and relationship. This way if I call out “Grandma,” I don’t have four ladies coming to me ready for their picture.

Once we have a list of all your family members and know who’s who, we can begin creating groupings. I recommend limiting to 10 groupings. This usually looks like the below:

  • Bride’s Parents
  • Groom’s Parents
  • Bride’s Siblings
  • Groom’s Siblings
  • Bride’s Immediate Family (parents and siblings)
  • Groom’s Immediate Family (parents and siblings)
  • Bride’s Grandparents
  • Groom’s Grandparents
  • Bride’s Full Family (everyone, sometimes includes aunts/uncles/cousins)
  • Groom’s Full Family (everyone, sometimes includes aunts/uncles/cousins)

After the groupings are figured out, it’s time to put it into an organized shot list! I have a template I used for my own wedding, and continue to use for ENP Couples’ weddings today! It is the perfect way to let your photographer know who everyone is and who is needed for each photo.

Click here to download my FREE family formals shot list template and try it out at your own wedding, I have a FREE link for you!


That’s it! If you still have questions about family formals or how to create a shot list, feel free to contact me at emily@emnicolephotography.com!

Or if you’re still looking for a wedding photographer to help you through the entire process, I’m happy to chat with you! See more details.

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Planning your wedding in Savannah, Georgia, provides you with so many options in a city full of Southern charm, historic elegance, and breathtaking low-country beauty. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic garden ceremony, a grand ballroom reception, or something in between, Savannah seems to have wedding venues for every taste. As a Georgia wedding photographer, I’ve done the research so you don’t have to.

Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | side by side images of Spanish moss at a Savannah wedding venue

Why You Should Consider Savannah Wedding Venues

Savannah is a city unlike any other. With its oak-lined streets, historic homes, and timeless coastal views, it’s no surprise that couples flock here to tie the knot. Savannah wedding venues offer something for everyone—from intimate settings surrounded by nature to grand estates steeped in history. Plus, its mild climate makes it a perfect choice for weddings year-round.

Top Savannah Wedding Venues to Consider

Hotel Bardo (formerly, The Mansion on Forsyth Park)

For couples seeking a venue that provides a fun vintage aesthetic amidst classic Savannah landmarks, Hotel Bardo is one of Savannah’s crown jewels. This venue combines historic charm with mid-century modern sophistication, offering everything from intimate indoor spaces to a picturesque garden courtyard.

Wormsloe Historic Site

For those who want to embrace Savannah’s natural beauty, Wormsloe Historic Site provides one of the most iconic backdrops in the city. The long driveway lined with towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss is a bride’s dream. It’s a serene, ethereal setting perfect for a romantic outdoor ceremony.

The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa

If waterfront views are your vibe, The Westin Savannah Harbor offers a stunning riverside backdrop. With expansive lawns overlooking the Savannah River, this venue blends elegance and nature seamlessly. Plus, the convenience of on-site accommodations makes it ideal for your out-of-town guests.

The Savannah Yacht Club

Couples who envision a sophisticated coastal wedding will fall in love with The Savannah Yacht Club. This venue offers sweeping views of the water, nautical charm, and an air of exclusivity. It’s perfect for smaller, more intimate weddings or grand celebrations with a coastal flair.

Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum

For history buffs and lovers of unique spaces, the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is a standout option. This venue features a lush garden courtyard and historic exhibits that add personality and charm to your wedding. The combination of indoor and outdoor spaces offers flexibility for your big day.

Bethesda Academy

Bethesda Academy boasts one of Savannah’s most stunning natural landscapes, featuring majestic oak trees draped in Spanish moss and rolling green fields. Its historic chapel and beautiful outdoor spaces create a dreamy, intimate setting perfect for a romantic Low-Country-inspired wedding.

The Mackey House

Tucked away in a private estate surrounded by nature, The Mackey House is a venue straight out of a fairytale. With a grand Southern-style mansion, lush gardens, and a peaceful lake, it’s the perfect place for an outdoor wedding full of whimsy and charm.

The Ford Field & River Club

Located just outside Savannah in Richmond Hill, this venue exudes refined Southern elegance. The sprawling estate features scenic views of the Ogeechee River, romantic oak groves, and luxurious accommodations, making it a perfect choice for an intimate yet grand wedding experience.

The Harper Fowlkes House

The Harper Fowlkes House is a historic and elegant mansion nestled in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. With its Greek Revival architecture, sweeping staircase, and lush gardens, this venue exudes timeless sophistication and charm. The courtyard garden is ideal for an intimate outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour, while the mansion’s interior offers a beautifully preserved space for receptions with intricate details like antique furnishings and grand windows.

The Kehoe House

The Kehoe House is a stunning, historic mansion located in the heart of Savannah’s Historic District. Built in 1892, this stately home is an exquisite example of Renaissance Revival architecture. Known for its ornate ironwork, grand interiors, and warm Southern hospitality, the Kehoe House is ideal for couples seeking a venue with timeless elegance and charm.

Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | side by side photos, left side image shows a long rectangle table set for a wedding reception amidst live oak trees draped with Spanish moss; right side photo shows a set of gold wedding rings next to a strand of Spanish moss

Tips for Choosing Between These Savannah Wedding Venues

  1. Consider Your Guest List Size
    Savannah wedding venues come in all shapes and sizes. From intimate gardens to sprawling estates, ensure the venue you choose comfortably accommodates your guest list.
  2. Think About Your Wedding Style
    Your venue should reflect your wedding vision. Are you dreaming of timeless elegance, coastal charm, or a whimsical outdoor affair? Savannah has venues that can bring any aesthetic to life, but the wrong venue can make your details and decor appear out of place. Make the most of that investment (and wedding photos) by choosing a venue that harmonizes with your style!
  3. Factor in Logistics
    From transportation to accommodations, Savannah is known for its hospitality, but it’s wise to consider the proximity of your venue to hotels and local attractions for your guests’ convenience. Consider traffic, city events on or around your wedding day that may cause disruption, and other logistics your guests may face. A wedding planner will help you navigate all the unexpected challenges with ease!
  4. Book Early
    Savannah is a popular wedding destination, especially in spring and fall. To secure your dream venue, book your Savannah wedding venue as early as possible! Then secure primary vendors on your list such as photographer, videographer, planner (if you don’t yet have one) and more.
Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | photo shows a wedding couple kissing under the Spanish moss, wearing a light grey linen suit (groom) and an off-the-shoulder satin wedding gown (bride)

Making the Most of Savannah Wedding Venues

Choosing one of Savannah’s stunning wedding venues is just the beginning. Personalize your celebration with touches that reflect your interests and love story. Whether it’s incorporating local cuisine like shrimp and grits, offering your guests trolley rides through the historic district, or having your photos taken under the iconic Spanish moss, Savannah is full of ways to make your wedding day an unforgettable experience for all.

Planning a wedding is no small task, but having a photographer who knows and loves the charm of Savannah can make all the difference.

I specialize in creating artful images out of your favorite memories. Booking me ensures you’ll have a wedding gallery that represents the essence of your love and legacy in every image. Learn more about my services and approach here.

If you’re considering a wedding in Savannah, I’d love to capture every moment for you. Let’s connect and discuss how I can create timeless art from your most cherished memories.

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