Along with taking a big group photo on the front steps of the church or the hall or other place which accommodated the wedding ceremony, there is a lot of interaction happening right before, after and during taking the photo. And that is exactly what you want to capture – the interaction.
It may be the best man shaking groom’s hand, grandmother giving the bride a kiss, parents on both sides greeting each other in their new status. You won’t be able to catch everything, the couple will be very likely drawn apart by the guests, and that’s OK since you don’t need to shoot everything anyway.
Key moments to look for:
- newlyweds looking at their brand new rings after leaving the church;
- bridal party members greeting newly married couple;
- parents on both sides (very important);
- close family with the babies;
- grandparents.
You may choose to shoot it wide, coming close to the action, shooting from your hands raised up when necessary. You may shoot it tight (zoomed in) from the steps down. Or mix a bit of both. Start from establishing the scene: show the couple’s faces first. Then you may shoot from behind, paying more attention to the guests’ faces. Combine wide shots with close ones.
