Tips to Make Family Photos Fast and Easy on Your Wedding Day

Family photos are some of the most meaningful images you'll take on your wedding day—they're keepsakes that will last for generations. But let’s be honest: they can also feel a little chaotic if not approached with intention.

After photographing countless weddings, I’ve learned a few tried-and-true strategies that make this part of the day smooth, efficient, and even fun.

Here’s how we can keep family portraits stress-free and running on time:

1. Make a Shot List—But Keep It Simple

A well-prepared list is golden. Before the wedding, I’ll ask you to share the combinations you’d like—think: bride with mom and dad, both sides of immediate family, siblings, etc. My recommendation? Focus on immediate family first. Extended family and more casual groupings can always happen during the reception.

Bonus Tip: Use full names instead of “Aunt Sue” or “Grandpa”—it makes organizing easier if someone else is helping coordinate.

2. Assign a “Family Wrangler”

Choose someone from each side of the family who knows who’s who and isn’t afraid to speak up. They’ll help me find people quickly and keep things moving. It’s one of the best hacks for staying on schedule—and it gives you one less thing to think about.

3. Stick to One Location

We’ll pick a beautiful, well-lit spot close to the ceremony or reception space—somewhere convenient for grandparents and little ones. Staying in one location means less time walking and more time smiling.

4. Let Me Lead the Flow

Once I have the list and the people in place, I’ll take it from there. I’ll pose you quickly, watch for blinking, and make sure everyone looks great. You don’t have to manage anything—that’s my job.

5. Tell Everyone When and Where

This sounds obvious, but it’s often overlooked! Let family members know before the big day exactly when and where they’re needed for photos. That way, nobody goes missing when we need them most.

6. Enjoy the Moment

Family photos aren’t just another box to check—they’re a rare moment when all your people are gathered in one place, dressed up, and celebrating you. I’ll make sure it feels like a part of the celebration, not a break from it.

Want more planning tips or ideas to personalize your wedding experience? I’m here to help—photography is just the beginning of how I support my couples.

Contact Information:

• Website: Colin Hayden Photo

• Email: colin@colinhaydenphoto.com

• Phone: 610-804-8341

• Instagram: @colinhaydenphoto

Behind the Scenes: What’s in My Camera Bag on a Wedding Day

When couples book me as their wedding photographer, they’re trusting me to preserve one of the most important days of their lives—and I take that responsibility seriously. Beyond a thoughtful approach to storytelling and a calm, steady presence on your wedding day, I also bring gear I trust 100%.

Here’s a quick peek inside my bag on a typical wedding day—and a little insight into why each piece matters.

Dual Sony a7iii Cameras

I always shoot with two professional-grade Sony a7iii cameras. Not only does this give me flexibility to switch lenses quickly without fumbling, it’s also a vital part of my backup plan. Weddings are fast-paced and once-in-a-lifetime—you’ll never see me fumbling with gear or missing a moment because of technical difficulties.

Go-To Lenses for Every Moment

Depending on the feel of the day, I bring a few lens setups, but here’s the usual lineup:

• 35–150mm f/2.0–2.8: This lens is incredibly versatile, covering everything from wide ceremony shots to close-up portraits—all without changing lenses.

• 28–75mm f/2.8: Great for tight indoor spaces, dynamic dance floor photos, and those moments where flexibility is key.

• Optional Primes (35mm f/1.4 + 85mm f/1.8): For days that call for a more cinematic look, I’ll bring these primes for dreamy depth of field and beautiful natural light portraits.

Creative Lighting with 3 Off-Camera Flashes

I bring three high-quality flashes to every wedding—these can be mounted on-camera or placed on stands for off-camera lighting. Whether it's a dimly lit dance floor or a dramatic evening portrait, I’ve got the tools to make the lighting work in our favor without it feeling harsh or artificial.

Batteries on Batteries

Powering all this gear? I pack plenty of batteries—more than enough for a full wedding day. I never want to be that photographer frantically charging something mid-ceremony (and I never am).

Why It Matters

You don’t have to know how a camera works to understand the importance of experience and preparedness. From spontaneous moments to grand entrances, my gear is chosen not just for technical quality, but for reliability, adaptability, and consistency. That way, no matter the lighting, the weather, or the pace of the day—your memories are in good hands.

Contact Information:

• Website: Colin Hayden Photo

• Email: colin@colinhaydenphoto.com

• Phone: 610-804-8341

• Instagram: @colinhaydenphoto

Introducing Our “Pay My Way” Destination Wedding Package

Are you dreaming of saying “I do” in a far-flung locale—perhaps under the sun in Tenerife, amid the rugged coastline of California, or on a tropical beach? At Colin Hayden Photo, we love capturing love stories wherever they happen. That’s why we’re excited to offer our “Pay My Way” destination wedding package, designed for couples planning weddings outside Pennsylvania, New Jersey, or Maryland.

What Is the “Pay My Way” Package?

With this special offering, you get the same 8-hour wedding day coverage, 400+ beautifully edited images, and an heirloom-quality wedding album that my local couples enjoy—no matter where your wedding takes place. PLUS, since I’ll be there for the weekend I’ll be available to photograph the welcome party the day before. You ONLY cover my travel expenses so I can be there with you.

How It Works

1. Limited Availability
   To ensure each destination wedding receives the focus and care it deserves, I’m limiting this package to two weddings per year.

2. Eligible Locations
   This package is available for weddings outside of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Maryland. Whether you’re tying the knot on a mountain peak or in an urban loft, I’m ready to join you.

3. Travel Arrangements

   • Transportation: You cover my round-trip airfare or train fare (including one checked bag or equivalent luggage).

   • Accommodation: Please provide lodging at the same property and level as your guests for a minimum of three nights—so I can capture your preparations, ceremony, and reception seamlessly.

   • Daily Stipend: A modest daily stipend covers local meals, ground transportation (taxis, rideshares, etc.), and incidental expenses.

Why Choose “Pay My Way”?

• Expertise: I’ll scout your venue ahead of time when possible, so I know the best light and unique angles to make your images stand out.

• Stress-Free Planning: Once travel and lodging are arranged, I handle the rest—timeline creation, vendor coordination, and capturing every meaningful moment.

• Memories That Last: From your first look in the morning light to candid reception fun, you’ll receive a permanent online gallery and premium print options to relive your destination wedding forever.

Ready to Book?

Spots for the “Pay My Way” package may fill quickly—only two destination weddings per year are accepted. If you’re planning a wedding beyond PA, NJ, or MD and love the idea of having me there to document your day, let’s chat about your vision and available dates. Contact Colin Hayden Photo today to learn more and secure your destination wedding coverage!

Colin Hayden Photo — Bringing your love story to life, wherever you say “I do.”

Contact Information:

• Website: Colin Hayden Photo

• Email: colin@colinhaydenphoto.com

• Phone: 610-804-8341

• Instagram: @colinhaydenphoto

Your Dream Wedding at the Cameron Estate Inn: A Venue Worth Celebrating

Nestled in the rolling countryside of Mount Joy, PA, the Cameron Estate Inn offers the perfect blend of historic charm and modern comfort for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding celebration. From its elegant manor house to its beautifully landscaped gardens, this venue has everything you need to bring your wedding vision to life.

1. A Picturesque Setting
The Cameron Estate Inn is surrounded by lush greenery and framed by mature trees, making it an ideal backdrop for your ceremony and portraits. Imagine exchanging vows beneath a floral-adorned arbor in the garden, with sunlight filtering through the leaves. Later, golden-hour portraits along the tree-lined pathways will give you that soft, romantic glow every couple dreams of.

2. Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Flow
One of the standout features of the Estate Inn is its versatile event spaces. If raindrops surprise your day, the elegant ballroom—with its crystal chandeliers and warm wood accents—provides a cozy refuge. On sunnier days, guests can mingle on the outdoor patio, sipping cocktails as they enjoy panoramic views of the estate grounds.

3. Charming Details Everywhere
From the antique furnishings in the Manor House to the stone walls of the Courtyard, every corner of the Cameron Estate Inn is filled with character. These unique architectural elements make for stunning detail shots—think close-ups of your bouquet against the weathered stone or your rings nestled in the antique drawer of a vintage dresser.

4. Personalized Moments That Shine
Whether you want a violinist serenading you in the garden, a sparkler exit down the tree-lined drive, or a late-night dance beneath bistro lights, the Cameron Estate Inn adapts to your personal style. This flexibility allows you to create an experience that truly feels like your day.

Ready to Make the Cameron Estate Inn Your Wedding Venue?
If you’re dreaming of a celebration that combines timeless elegance with a warm, intimate atmosphere, the Cameron Estate Inn is waiting for you. As your photographer, I’ll be there to capture every detail—from the first glance to the last dance—so you can relive your special day for years to come. Contact me today to discuss how we can preserve your wedding memories at this magical venue.

Contact Information:

• Website: Colin Hayden Photo

• Email: colin@colinhaydenphoto.com

• Phone: 610-804-8341

• Instagram: @colinhaydenphoto

Photo Ideas for the Groom and Their Side of the Wedding Party: Capturing Every Moment with Style

A wedding day isn’t just about the bride’s stunning moments—it’s also a celebration of the groom and his closest friends and family. As the groom and his wedding party share in the excitement, their genuine camaraderie and unique style deserve to be captured beautifully. Here are some creative photo ideas and tips to ensure that every memorable moment with the groom and his crew is documented perfectly:

1. Classic Candid Moments

While posed shots are timeless, candid moments often tell the real story of the day. I encourage the groom and their party to relax, share a laugh, and be themselves. Whether it’s a spontaneous high-five, a shared joke while waiting for the ceremony, or a quiet moment of reflection before the big event, these genuine interactions make for unforgettable images.

2. The Groom’s Portrait

I always remember to capture a few dedicated portraits for the groom, to highlight his personality with a mix of formal and relaxed poses. Consider using natural settings around your venue or even a cool urban backdrop if your style leans modern. These images will not only reflect his unique style but also provide a timeless keepsake of his journey to “I do.”

3. Group Shots with a Twist

For the wedding party group shots, mix it up a bit. Instead of the traditional line-up, try:

• Dynamic Poses: Have the group staggered in height or create playful formations like a circle or diagonal lineup.

• Action Shots: Capture the party walking together, laughing during a quick toast, or even interacting naturally during a moment of excitement. These action shots add energy and vibrancy to your album.

• Detail Focus: Include creative close-ups of the groom’s cufflinks, his boutonniere, or the unique elements of his attire. These detail shots can bring a unique edge to the overall story of your wedding day.

4. The “Pre-Ceremony” Energy

Some of the best images come from behind-the-scenes moments before the ceremony. Photograph the groom and his party as they prepare, share a toast, or enjoy a light-hearted moment together. These photos capture the anticipation, camaraderie, and excitement of what’s to come.

5. A Touch of Personalization

Every groom is unique, so consider incorporating personal elements that showcase his interests or style. Whether it’s a favorite accessory, a meaningful piece of jewelry, or even a location that’s special to the group, adding these touches will make the images feel authentic and memorable.

6. Lighting & Location Magic

Utilize natural lighting, especially during golden hour, to create dramatic and flattering portraits. Whether you choose an urban setting, a rustic venue, or an outdoor area with lush greenery, the right light and location can transform your group photos into stunning works of art.

Capturing Your Story, One Shot at a Time
Every moment of your wedding day is a chapter in your unique love story. With thoughtful planning and creative photography, the groom and his wedding party will have a collection of images that not only capture the fun and excitement of the day but also the deep bonds that make your celebration special.

If you’re looking to capture these unforgettable moments with style and authenticity, let’s chat! I’d love to help bring your vision to life and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Contact me today to discuss your wedding photography needs and let’s start planning your perfect shoot!

Contact Information:

• Website: Colin Hayden Photo

• Email: colin@colinhaydenphoto.com

• Phone: 610-804-8341

• Instagram: @colinhaydenphoto