One of the 'traditional' times of the day as far as photography is concerned is where the family is gathered in varying combinations for formal portraiture.
Some people actually 'look forward' to this time and it is often seen as a unique opportunity, the extended family is finally together and it must be documented. Others see this time as a necessary burden to be undertaken. Either way there is no reason not to have a little fun with it.
The most efficient an time-economical way to accomplish this is by creating a 'Formals List'.
This is a 'name specific' list of everyone that you would like in your 'Formal' family group shots. There is no limit to the number of individuals that you can include on this list. The bridal-party shots do not need to be listed.
Start with the shots that are the most important to you. If time runs short some of the less important shots can be taken at the reception.
If possible start with the largest groups, eliminating individuals from the group with each shot rather than adding to the group. For example; the list could include the Bride and Groom, both sets of parents, siblings and grandparents. The following shot is sans the grandparents, the next without siblings, etc.
If your shot list includes individuals that may be uncomfortable waiting a long time (grandparents, parents with small children) make sure to list these early on so that they can do what is necessary to be more comfortable.
Assign someone to be in charge of this list, we refer to that person as your 'list person or list coordinator.' It should be someone who knows all (or most) of the people on the list. Sometimes it is helpful to have a list person from the Bride's side and a partner list person from the Groom's side of the family. Try to assign these duties to someone other than your 'GO-TO' person (see 'Let Go'), as the Go-to is often busy answering questions or giving directions during the formals. The 'List Coordinator' should be instructed to gather the 'next' group on the list while your photographers are photographing the current group. The 'List' person needs to be organized and it is helpful if they have the demeanor of a drill sergeant. Make sure that they have a pencil so that they can cross each shot off the list as it is taken. This can make a real difference in how smooth or chaotic the 'formals' portion of the day flows.
Start your list weeks prior to the wedding so that you can periodically check to make sure that no one is forgotten. You will be in dozens of shots, if someone asks, "did we get a shot of Aunt Mable and Uncle Ed?", you will probably respond, "oh, I'm sure we did", later to find out that they rode all the way from Kansas in an empty freight car for your wedding and did not get the image that they would have cherished for the rest of their lives.
At your rehearsal dinner, please make anannouncement that you are paying a significant amount for your photography and do not want it ruined by well meaning family members taking shots or flash photography while your paid photographer is working. Posed family members find it hard not to look at someone that they recognize with a camera, it will look strange in your final images if everyone is looking at the photographer except for one or two people.
Exclusivity is requested ONLY during posed romantic portraits, the first look and the family formals. The rest of the day it is a 'free-for-all.'
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