Shay and David became husband and wife at one of East Tennessee’s most unique venues— The Millstone! The Millstone is an old grist flour mill that has been transformed into a stunning wedding venue. The reception space is enclosed by repurposed glass windows, too, giving it a rustic, almost greenhouse, feel! David and Shay celebrated with their family, friends, and ring bearer golden retriever, Murphy, who most definitely stole the show! Talk about the most perfect Tennessee wedding day!

Ever since I got into wedding photography, I’ve always been told that the very most stressful part of the day would be family formal portraits. I think that is simply because, from a couple’s perspective, you’re trying to round up family members and hope everyone cooperates, and as a photographer, you’re trying to photograph a whole group of people that you’ve mostly never met before and are trying to keep them happy before they head to the reception! It can definitely be a little stressful, but if both the couple and photographer prepare, it really can go more smoothly than expected!

Here are 5 tips that I’ve learned through the years and shooting weddings that help make family formal portraits run smoothly!