Pro tips from a Hudson Valley wedding photographer
Family portraits are one of the few “formal” parts of a wedding day, and they can easily become chaotic if they’re not planned well. As a wedding photographer based in Poughkeepsie, NY, specializing in candid, documentary-style photography, I’ve seen how a bit of prep can make this part of the day smooth, fast, and actually enjoyable.
Whether you're getting married in the Hudson Valley or anywhere else, here’s how to make sure your wedding family portraits run efficiently and stress-free.
1. Start with a Clear Family Photo Shot List
Before your wedding day, sit down and list out:
- All the people you want in your family photos (by name)
- Specific groupings (e.g., Bride + Mom + Dad, Groom + Siblings, Couple + Both sets of parents, etc.)
- Any special requests or must-haves
Having this shot list helps your photographer know exactly what you want — and makes sure no important combinations get missed.
Pro tip: Keep your list focused on VIPs only. Not every cousin or extended family member needs to be in the formal portraits. Save broader group shots for cocktail hour or the reception.
2. Assign a Photo Wrangler (Someone Who Knows Everyone)
Pick a family member or friend (not in too many photos themselves) who knows both sides of the family. This person will help the photographer find the right people and keep things moving.
Usually, a sibling, maid of honor, or cousin who’s good with people is ideal. Your photographer is focused on lighting, framing, and posing — a wrangler keeps the VIPs in line and ready.
3. Go Old School: Print the List & Bring a Highlighter
Phones are great — until you're fumbling to find a doc or someone's battery dies. Print out the shot list and bring a pen or highlighter. Mark each shot off as you go. It’s simple, efficient, and avoids missed shots or duplicates.
4. Budget 1 Minute Per Group
On average, each group photo takes about a minute to organize, pose, and capture. If you have 40–50 combinations, you’ll need about 45 minutes.
Make sure your wedding day timeline includes enough time for this session. Rushed portraits = more stress and fewer smiles.
5. Tell Your VIPs in Advance
Let your family and wedding party know exactly when and where they’ll be needed for portraits. This avoids the all-too-common “Where’s Uncle Joe?” scenario. Include the photo session time in your wedding itinerary and communicate it during your rehearsal if possible.
6. Pick a Clean, Close, and Shaded Location
Choose a portrait spot near the ceremony or reception space. Look for even lighting, a clean background, and minimal foot traffic. Shaded areas are ideal — no one wants harsh sun, squinting, or sweat marks. Consistent lighting also helps your photos look clean and timeless.
7. Start with the Largest Groups First
Begin with full family groups and work your way down to smaller combinations. This allows people to be dismissed once they’re done — especially helpful for kids or older relatives who may not want to stand around.
8. Keep Kids Engaged (or Distracted)
For kids in portraits, bring snacks, a toy, or assign someone off-camera to get their attention. Capture their photos early, before they get tired or bored. No shame in bribing with gummy bears.
9. Set Up a “Holding Zone” for Ready Guests
Designate a nearby waiting area for people who will be in photos. This keeps everyone close by and avoids yelling across the venue. Bonus points if it’s shaded and has a place to sit.
10. Schedule Portraits Before the Ceremony (If Doing a First Look)
If you’re planning a first look, consider scheduling portraits beforehand. Everyone’s fresh, the timeline has more flexibility, and you get to spend more time at cocktail hour later.
Final Thought: It’s Not About Perfection — It’s About Connection
Family portraits don’t have to be stiff or stressful. With a little planning, clear communication, and a calm photographer behind the lens, they can actually be one of the more meaningful parts of the day.
And remember — not every shot has to be perfect. Some of the best moments happen in the in-between: a shared laugh, a proud parent’s glance, a kid making a face. That’s the kind of energy I aim to capture in every session.
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer in the Hudson Valley who captures real, candid moments and keeps the family photo process calm and organized, get in touch with Krutick Photography. Let’s make your day unforgettable — without the stress.
Krutick Photography | www.krutickphotography.com | richard@krutickphotography.com | 845-857-4980
