Family photographs do not need to mean half an hour of calling people and working through an endless list. At the right time, in the right place and with the largest group first, the whole set can take about fifteen minutes.
The aim is not to restrict the number of groups. It is to avoid searching for people across the entire venue.
The best time is immediately after the ceremony
Guests are still together, older family members have not gone elsewhere and nobody needs to leave dinner. If the ceremony area is unsuitable, we choose another specific point and tell everyone in advance.
We begin with the largest group and gradually release people. Parents, siblings, grandparents and witnesses remain for the smaller combinations.
Choose one person who knows the families
A photographer does not know every guest by name. A sibling, witness or bridesmaid who can quickly call the next group makes a major difference.
You do not need a complicated spreadsheet. Decide which close combinations you would genuinely regret missing and mention any unusually large group in advance.
The best place is not always the best view
I look for even light, a clean background and enough safe space. A famous view is not useful if half the family is squinting or the group cannot fit comfortably.
In rain, groups can be photographed under a covered entrance or indoors. We decide from the real conditions rather than habit.
How to finish in about fifteen minutes
Prepare the important groups, announce the place, choose one helper and begin with the largest combination. We do not change locations or rebuild the setup between every photograph.
Photographs with friends or colleagues are welcome too. They do not all have to happen in the formal group session; some can be made naturally during the evening.