Survival kit: How to make group photos less of a pain

🇬🇧 English version

Weddings usually take place in the sunny season, when the weather brings joy to all. In the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, we’re lucky: it’s sunny almost year-round, and rainy weddings are rare.

Here, the only “plan B” is usually the mistral wind. Rain rarely lingers long, and guests almost always have a wonderful time… except maybe when…

Imagine this: 200 guests, bright sun overhead, and the group photos haven’t even started. If your guests happen to be last on the list, they’ll mostly remember waiting... sweating.

Don’t be mistaken—photographers dread this part too. The flow of the day is interrupted, Aunt Josette has disappeared to change her shoes, Grandpa Roger has gone to park the car... Chaos.

With big weddings, it can become a nightmare. And let’s be honest: people tend to remember what they didn’t enjoy. (Science confirms it: negative memories stick longer than positive ones.)

Still, group photos are essential. Your loved ones traveled to be there for your big day—these memories deserve to be captured beautifully.

So how do we avoid the group-photo purgatory? Simple: don’t cram it all into one moment. Spread the photos throughout the day, take advantage of spontaneous opportunities, and aim for creativity.

• Start with all the ideas from you and your photographer
• Gently simmer with a creative pro behind the camera
• Add a pinch of classic poses with grandparents
• Mix in a good spoonful of wild, funny shots
• Fold in plenty of laughter

Voilà! A smooth session that everyone will enjoy and remember.

Group photos should be playful. Your guests will love contributing to the fun atmosphere—especially if you:

• Suggest a color theme or light dress code (harmonious photos = timeless photos)
• Capture them during cocktail hour, when spirits are high (and slightly tipsy)
• Avoid the endless waiting line syndrome we’ve all experienced before

Choosing the right photographer matters as much as choosing the right guests. A creative professional will brainstorm with you ahead of time, suggest ideas, and draw inspiration from your love story to create fun, original, even hilarious photos.

Forget the tired old clichés—let’s make room for spontaneity, joy, and real connection.