As a documentary wedding photographer I’m always looking to capture something real, to portray the real essence of the day. Historically though, wedding photography was more about the posed group shots, or formals as they are often referred. Of course I will take a few small formal shots if the couple request them but the one shot I always advise against is the big group shot of everyone. Firstly, they take the most time to organise, especially with larger weddings, which means less time just enjoying the day with family and friends. And secondly it really announces my presence to the entire wedding party, making it more challenging to blend in and remain unnoticed afterwards.

However, it’s still great to capture a shot of all the guests in context and there are a couple of points in the day when everyone will be together in the one room. The wedding breakfast is usually one of them, and the ceremony is the other. Following this beautiful ceremony at the oh so special Botleys Mansion a couple of weeks ago, I spotted the stairs at the back of the atrium and knew they would make for a wonderful sweeping shot of everyone in the room. So I made sure I was in prime position as the happy couple made their way up the aisle following their marriage.

This is real. This is storytelling. This is my kind of group shot. I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments section below.

For photographers: This image was taken using a Canon 5D Mark 3 with the 24mm f/1.4L Mark 2 at f/8, 1/500s, ISO 1600.