Should Siblings’ Significant Others Be in Family Wedding Photos?
Here’s a question to ask yourself if you’ve got a sibling bringing a serious GF/BF to your wedding: Do you want said significant other to be in the family wedding photos?
Make sure you-know-who is standing in easy Photoshop position
I’m not trying to sound insensitive. But let’s be honest, not all relationships last. In fact, some not only end, they end horribly. If your brother’s girlfriend decides to dump him for his best friend, do you really want to be starting at her face in your wedding album for the rest of your life?
I’ve been involved in weddings where this situation arose. It’s always interesting to see how each family handles it. Some options to consider are:
- Take immediate family photos first and then ask the GF/BF to jump in for another shot or two with the family.
- Don’t include them in immediate family shots, but invite them in for the larger group shots that involve the entire groom or bride’s side.
- Let them be in the photos, but make sure they stand on a side so they can be Photo-shopped out (yes, I’ve actually seen this done before).
This is an interesting question to debate. What are your thoughts?
Tags: Family Wedding Photos, Wedding Photos
February 11th, 2010 at 2:11 pm
Great advice! I’ve had my share of family photos ruined by ghosts of the past.
February 11th, 2010 at 2:30 pm
That’s a toughie. I think the best option is to take the immediate family picture without them and then throw them in. That way, if they end up getting married you have both versions. And you should let the photographer know when you meet with them to discuss the wedding schedule so that they can just direct the girlfriend/boyfriend. Also, ask the photographer to take a picture of just the couple if you have plenty of time. That way they do feel special and included, and they get a professional picture they’ll love with their significant other and not just with the crazy family they may or may not marry into
February 11th, 2010 at 2:40 pm
This is a great topic. If a sibling is in a serious relationship with someone you will definitely want a picture of them together and maybe even include them in the group family photo. But make sure that there is one without them also. The last thing you want is to spend good money to have the family photo from the wedding blown up for you parents as a gift, and be forever stuck looking at your brothers ex who cheated on him with his best friend
It is ok to have them in some pictures, but make sure there are duplicates without them.