Spoiler: it doesn't have to be chaotic.
If you’ve ever been in a wedding, you probably know — family photos can either be smooth and joyful... or a total headache. But here’s the good news: with a little planning (and the right photographer), family portraits can be one of the most efficient and meaningful parts of your wedding day.
Here’s how we help make that happen:
1. We Start With a Questionnaire
After you book with us, you’ll receive a detailed wedding questionnaire that covers everything from your timeline to your must-have moments — including your family photo list. We ask who should be included, any sensitive family dynamics to be aware of, and any special groupings you want captured.
2. You Approve the Final Family Shot List
Once we’ve reviewed your responses, we create a custom family photo list that’s organized, clear, and totally tailored to your day. You’ll be able to review, edit, and approve it in advance, so when the wedding day comes, there are no surprises and no missed groupings.
3. We Use a Build It Up / Break It Down Workflow
Here’s where the magic happens: our posing system is designed to be fast and seamless. The couple stays in place while we build groupings around you — adding and removing family members quickly. This means fewer transitions, less confusion, and more time for celebrating. Instead of calling people in and out at random (which eats up time and energy), we guide each group intentionally so everything runs smoothly.
4. It Only Takes 30 Minutes
Seriously. Because of our streamlined process and advanced planning, we’re able to get all of your family groupings done in about 30 minutes. No dragging it out, no awkward waiting, and no standing around for 45 minutes while someone tracks down Aunt Carol.
5. You Can Actually Enjoy It
When your photographer is prepared, your people are prepped, and the flow is efficient — you get to relax and enjoy this time with the people who mean the most. Our goal is to make family portraits feel like a celebration, not a checklist.
Bonus Tip: Assign someone from each side of the family to help gather people. A sibling, cousin, or friend who knows faces can speed things up even more!
Planning a wedding in Iowa?
Whether you’re getting married in Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, Iowa City, or the small town you grew up in — family matters. And capturing those people beautifully, efficiently, and stress-free is something we care a lot about.
Let’s make it happen. Contact us!