When we think about wedding photography, it’s usually the bride and her bridesmaids who steal the show. Their portraits and group shots are seen as key moments to capture the love story of the day. But what about groomsmen photos? It’s just as important to capture their energy, too! Including these photos brings balance and adds personality to your wedding album.
Now, let’s settle the question of whether we should photograph the groom getting ready – absolutely! The groomsmen bring their own unique vibe to the day, and capturing their special moments, no matter how big or small, is essential for telling the complete wedding story.
So, how do you make these groomsmen photos truly stand out? Our Big Day Productions team has 10 creative ideas for taking unforgettable pictures that you’ll love!
1. Groomsmen Getting Ready Photos
While groomsmen may not need as much prep time as bridesmaids, their pre-ceremony moments are still filled with energy worth capturing. These are often candid, lighthearted, and perfect for storytelling.
Ideas include:
- Playing pool or board games while waiting for the bride.
- Hosting a mini karaoke session.
- Helping each other with cufflinks or boutonnières.
- Tying ties or ironing shirts – often hilarious photo opportunities.
These moments show camaraderie and create authentic groomsmen getting ready photos that reflect their personalities.
2. Classic Group Wedding Photos
A wedding album wouldn’t be complete without group shots of the groom and his party. These photos set the tone and show the style of the groomsmen collectively.
Choose a backdrop that enhances the vibe, such as:
- A rustic barn for a countryside wedding.
- A scenic garden for timeless elegance.
- An elegant hallway for a touch of formality.
Encourage the group to interact naturally – sharing jokes, walking together, or adjusting each other’s ties. These subtle actions create more genuine group wedding photos than stiff, static poses.
3. Highlight Individual Personalities
Each groomsman brings his own flair to the group. Taking time for individual portraits allows personalities to shine through.
Let each groomsman:
- Pose in a way that feels natural.
- Show a signature expression or gesture.
- Add props tied to inside jokes or hobbies.
These images balance the group shots and make the wedding album feel more complete.
4. Capture Candid Groomsmen Moments
Some of the most memorable photos aren’t planned—they just happen. Candid groomsmen pictures often capture laughter, toasts, and spontaneous fun.
Photographers can stay in the background with a longer lens to catch unguarded moments, such as:
- Cheers during a toast.
- Laughter during a lighthearted speech.
- Playful teasing while getting ready.
These pictures bring the album to life with emotion and authenticity.
5. Encourage Movement
Static poses can look stiff. Movement creates energy and brings a modern, dynamic feel to groomsmen photography.
Ideas include:
- Walking toward the camera in unison.
- Jumping together for a fun shot.
- Running down the aisle with exaggerated energy.
Using a fast shutter speed freezes action crisply, while a slower one can blur motion creatively for artistic effects.
6. Focus on Details
Details are part of every wedding story, and groomsmen’s attire often includes meaningful touches. Close-ups of these elements help complete the visual narrative.
Examples:
- Personalised cufflinks or engraved watches.
- The stitching inside a tailored suit jacket.
- Matching socks or unique pocket squares.
- The groom’s boutonnière.
Detail shots may be small, but they add richness and context to the day.
7. Experiment With Angles and Perspectives
Changing angles can transform a simple shot into a striking groomsmen photo.
Techniques to try:
- Shooting low to the ground for a dramatic angle.
- Using overhead shots to incorporate scenery.
- Capturing reflections in mirrors or windows.
These creative perspectives make the groomsmen stand out and add variety to the wedding album.
8. Incorporate the Wedding Theme
The best groomsmen photos reflect the overall wedding theme. Aligning the photography with the aesthetic ensures consistency across the album.
For example:
- At a beach wedding, capture relaxed poses with the ocean as a backdrop.
- At a vintage-inspired wedding, use classic props like old cars or pocket watches.
- At a countryside barn wedding, incorporate hay bales or rustic wood textures.
9. Make Use of Natural Lighting
Lighting shapes mood. Natural light, especially during the golden hour, can transform ordinary images into extraordinary ones.
Tips:
- Position groomsmen near windows for soft, flattering indoor light.
- Use side lighting outdoors to add depth and definition.
- Backlight the group to create a glowing halo effect.
Photographers who master light can elevate even simple group shots into striking images.
10. Add Black and White for Timeless Appeal
Not every photo needs to be in colour. Black and white photography strips away distractions, leaving emotion front and centre.
Best uses:
- Close-up portraits of the groom and groomsmen.
- Emotional candid shots during speeches.
- High-contrast group photos for a classic look.
Use sparingly for variety—black and white images are most powerful when balanced with colour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do we handle groomsmen who might not be comfortable in front of the camera?
Communicate with them beforehand, reassuring them that the photographer will help guide them through poses. Encouraging natural interactions and candid moments can help ease nerves and result in more genuine photos.
Can we mix formal and candid styles in our groomsmen shots?
Yes, blending formal and candid styles can create a well-rounded set of photos. Start with some classic posed shots and then transition into more relaxed and spontaneous moments.
Are there specific times of day that are best for groomsmen photos?
The golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, is ideal for outdoor photos due to its soft, flattering light. Indoor photos are best taken near large windows for natural light.
Go for Unforgettable Groomsmen Photos
Capturing striking groomsmen photos requires creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to blend posed portraits with candid storytelling. From groomsmen getting ready photos to dynamic action shots, these images show the friendships, laughter, and style that make a wedding day unforgettable.
Remember, your wedding album isn’t complete without the groom’s side of the story.
If you’re planning a wedding and want every detail beautifully documented, from the smallest cufflink to the grandest celebration, get in touch with Big Day Productions about our UK wedding photography services.
We’ll make sure your memories are preserved in the most authentic and striking way.
