Group photos are one of the easiest parts of the day to get wrong.

Not because they’re complicated - but because most people underestimate how long they take.

The only rule you need

A good rule of thumb:

Around 2 minutes per group

That includes calling people over, arranging them, taking a few frames, and moving on.

As a guide:

7-8 groups = roughly 15 minutes

That’s a good upper limit for keeping things feeling quick and easy. Once you go beyond that, it can start to feel like a bit of a drag - for you and for your guests.

Plan the time, not just the list

If you do want more groups, that’s completely fine.

You don’t need to justify it or apologise for it - I’ll get through whatever list you give me.

The key is simply allowing enough time in your timeline. If you’ve got a longer list, we just build that in properly so it doesn’t feel rushed or spill into the rest of the day.

There’s no “right” list

A lot of advice pushes couples toward standard family combinations.

That doesn’t work for everyone.

Your group photos should reflect the people who actually matter to you - whether that’s family, friends, or a mix of both.

One big group photo is always worth it

If space allows, a full group photo with everyone is always a good idea.

It’s quick to do, and one of the few images that captures the whole room in a single frame.

How to keep it running smoothly

A few simple things make a big difference:

Have a written list ready
Keep everything in one location
Ask someone to help gather people

That’s usually all it takes.

Keep it realistic

Group photos don’t need to take over your day.

But they do need a bit of planning.

Get the timing right, and they’ll feel like a small, easy part of the day - not something that slows everything down.