Save time at the reception! A method to finish table rounds and group photos, which typically take 20-30 minutes, in an instant.

2023.06.19 published

Snap Photos with Guests at Each Table

During the reception, the bride and groom visit each guest table to take photos, known as "table snaps."

In the first half of the reception (in wedding dress), guests are invited to the main table for a photo shoot. In the second half (in colored dress or colorful outfits), it is customary for the couple to move around to each table.

It’s a precious moment where you can take photos with guests in the outfit after the costume change♡

However, incorporating table snaps into the schedule can take quite a bit of time.

✅ The bride and groom move between tables

✅ Guests follow the staff's instructions and shift a little

✅ When the bride and groom arrive at the table, they chat briefly with the guests

✅ The attendant adjusts the dress train

✅ The photographer calls out a few times

✅ Finally, it’s time to take photos!

This is the general flow.

It usually takes about 2-3 minutes per table. For example, if there are 10 round tables (60 guests with 6 per table), it could take about 20-30 minutes just for the photos.

Though it’s a socializing time for guests, the couple’s visit lasts only 2-3 minutes.

If this photo round time could be shortened, some might want to include other performances or enjoy a leisurely time with guests, hoping to make good use of the limited time at the reception...

The Quickest Way to Finish Table Snaps...!?

Recently, at a reception covered by bridal photographer Ayako, who shot at the wedding of Sanae’s sister (Sanae is a hair and makeup artist), there was a wish from Sanae’s sister to prioritize socializing time and shorten table photo time, and they came up with this amusing method!

First, take a look at the video♡

➡ Photographer Ayako’s Instagram

➡ Hair and Makeup Artist Sanae’s Instagram

The bride and groom dash around each table, and guests prepare neatly, ready to take a picture as soon as the couple arrives.

With Ayako's “Alright, say cheese!” the shutter clicks rapidly three times, and then immediately “Okay, next!” as the couple and Ayako move on to the next table.

As a result, the table photo session took only 5 minutes.

The fact that table snaps that normally take 20-30 minutes finished in just 5 minutes is astonishing, right...!

Guests encourage the running couple with cheers like “Go for it!” or wave hands saying “Over here!”

The moment the photos conclude, everyone applauds! The sense of unity with the guests increases♡

(As someone who isn’t great at photo shoots, I think a speedy approach like this might reduce anxiety...)

@sanae.bridalhairmake

To incorporate this performance, it’s essential to have guests lined up before the photography starts, so prior announcements are a must.

The overall flow was:

1. During the interval, the MC explained to the guests (announcing to line up as soon as the couple re-enters and reaches the main table)

2. Costume change entrance

3. As soon as the bride and groom arrive at the main table, they immediately begin table rounds!

This seems to be the order of events＊

To make this performance happen,

✅ A position for guests to line up (a good spot for pictures)

✅ A pathway for the couple to walk through

✅ The order in which the couple will visit tables

All of these need to be considered simultaneously, and cooperation from guests is necessary, making it quite challenging to implement. However, it could create a unique and exciting atmosphere, while also saving time, which is delightful♡

Videos from Abroad

This performance seems to be taking place overseas as well.

The bride and groom run in time with the theme song from Mission: Impossible.

Not in front of the guests but right beside them for a quick photo! It’s all over in an instant...!

Wrap Up Table Photos in an Instant!

We introduced a method to wrap up table photography quickly＊

✅ Guests move ahead

✅ The couple moves quickly (without the attendant!)

✅ The photographer takes one-take shots

This method is challenging without cooperation from the couple, guests, photographer, MC, planner, and all staff involved.

Those who want to try this should consult with their planner♡

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Lastly...

The photographer Ayako, who implemented this performance, has decided to retire from wedding photography (from ceremony to reception) after this wedding of Sanae's sister.

She is getting married and starting a family, leading to her retirement. Many brides who share similar concerns about women's careers might have been supported, encouraged, or inspired by Ayako’s messages.

She will still accept bookings for receptions, pre-wedding shoots, family photos, Shichi-Go-San, and more♡

Congratulations on your marriage♡