You might be wondering, how many pictures do I need to take with my family at my wedding? While it’s hard to give an exact number, I can offer some helpful ideas! Typically, newlyweds take pictures with friends and extended family during the reception. However, family portraits usually happen right after the ceremony with parents, siblings, bridesmaids, groomsmen, and in-laws. To help you plan your picture-perfect moments, here are some pose ideas to get you ready for the big day.

Honoring Family: Classic Poses with Parents for Wedding Photos

Classic poses with parents for wedding photos are a must for your photographer.

When it comes to family photos, make sure to capture a few sweet moments with your parents and in-laws. Consider posing with the newlyweds standing in the center, flanked by both sets of parents. For a classic family shot, place the bride in the middle with her parents on one side, and the groom in the middle with his parents on the other. You can also create a more intimate shot with just the bride and her mother or just the groom and his father.

Example Pose:

Bride and groom standing with each set of parents on either side.

Fun and Formal: Group Shots with Bridesmaids and Groomsmen

Justin Clark captures a photo of the bride and groom standing with their bridesmaids and groomsmen.

The wedding party deserves their moment too! Gather the bridesmaids and groomsmen for a mix of formal group shots and fun candid moments. You can start with the traditional posed shots (everyone lined up nicely), and then switch to a more playful pose, like the bride and groom sharing a kiss while the wedding party celebrates around them.

Candid wedding photos are important for your photographer to capture during your wedding day.

Example Pose:

The bride and groom in the center, with the bridesmaids and groomsmen standing behind them, smiling or laughing.
A playful shot where the bride and groom kiss while their friends cheer around them.

Seated in Style: Classic Family Poses for Wedding Group Photos

Utilize the chairs available at the venue to create a more relaxed and intimate family portrait. Have your parents, grandparents, and other key family members sit together, with the couple standing or sitting in front of them. You can also arrange the family in a way that shows the generations, such as having the older generations seated and the younger generations standing behind them.

Example Pose:

Parents, grandparents, and elders seated, with the bride and groom standing in front of them or sitting on chairs beside them.
A relaxed pose where the couple sits next to their parents while others stand behind.
Side by Side: Posing with Siblings for Timeless Wedding Memories

Posing with siblings is a great way to capture timeless wedding memories.

Siblings are often some of the most important people in your life. Be sure to get individual and group photos with your brothers and sisters. The bride and groom can each have group shots with their siblings and also take a moment for one-on-one photos with each sibling for a more personal touch.

Example Pose:

The bride and her siblings grouped together, smiling and posing casually.
The groom with each sibling individually, sharing a hug or a funny moment.

The Roots of Love: Bride Posing with Parents

Justin Clark captures a tender moment between the father of the bride and bride before she walks down the aisle.

Create a special moment with your parents by having individual shots with each of them. The bride can have a solo shot with her mom and another with her dad, or even a sweet moment where both parents are in the frame. Parents, don't be afraid to show emotion! Hug your daughter, kiss her on the cheek, and express how proud you are!

Example Pose:

A tender moment of the bride holding her mom’s hand or hugging her dad.
A playful moment where the bride’s parents fix her veil or button her dress.

The Roots of Love: Groom Posing with Parents

Mother of the groom and the groom have a candid moment before the wedding begins.

Just like the bride, the groom should capture those meaningful moments with his parents. Whether it's a hug or a funny exchange, these are memories to cherish. The groom can also get individual shots with each of his parents, like a father fixing his bow tie or a mother giving him a loving kiss on the cheek.

Example Pose:

The groom and his mom sharing a sweet hug or the dad adjusting his tie.
A heartfelt moment where the groom stands between his parents.

Family of Three (or More): Capturing Joyful Moments with Kids

Family portraits with your children are important moments to capture.

If you have children, don’t forget to capture this special moment with them. Whether they’re your own children, stepchildren, or even nieces and nephews, this is a big day for them too. Have your child or children stand or sit between you and your spouse, or have them in your arms. These photos are a wonderful reminder of how your family has grown and evolved.

Example Pose: