Essential Photography Times for Your Wedding Day

It's really hard to pinpoint an exact wedding photography timeline template since it varies wildly with things like the length of coverage, whether or not there's a first look, and ceremony start times. However, I will give some optimal time frames that you might consider as a general rule of thumb in planning your day. Some of these times may seem lengthy on paper, but remember that the day flies, most weddings run slightly late, and we'll make these photo sessions fun so that it will not seem like a long time. If you would like you can see a sample timeline here.

 RINGS, DRESS, SHOES, AND OTHER DETAILS

Approximate Time  – 30 minutes
 Best Location – Bridal Suite or Hotel Suite
Thoughts – Having an hour of preparation would be best. During this time, we are getting close ups of the makeup and hair being applied as well as the candid moments and the bridesmaids and groomsmen get ready for the day. Keep in mind that these are some of the most emotional and fun times of the day, and I want to capture the story of your whole day.

PREPARATION

Approximate Time  – 60 minutes
Best Location – Bridal Suite or Hotel Suite
Thoughts – Having an hour of preparation would be best. During this time, we are getting close ups of the makeup and hair being applied as well as the candid moments of the bridesmaids and groomsmen get ready for the day. Keep in mind that these are some of the most emotional and fun times of the day, and I want to capture the story of your whole day.

INDIVIDUAL PORTRAITS

Approximate Time – 30 minutes
Best Location – Bridal Suite, Hotel Suite, Venue Lobby, or Venue Garden
Thoughts – Right after getting ready is the best time for individual portraits of the bride and groom (separately). Besides makeup and hair being completely fresh, the day has not gotten hectic yet so we can take our time and get those perfect portraits.
Also, keep in mind that the window lighting in most hotel rooms creates a unique look that can’t be duplicated in any environment throughout the rest of the day.

FIRST LOOK 

Approximate Time – 30-45 minutes
Best Location – Venue Garden, Empty Venue Hallway (shaded areas with natural light)
Thoughts – The first look should be around 15-30 minutes. During this time, the bride and groom see each other for the first time on the wedding day. While the actual first look might only be 5-10 minutes, the rest of the time is spent on portraits of the bride and groom.

CEREMONY DETAILs AND VENUE

Approximate Time – 15 minutes
Ideal Time of the Day – Morning or Afternoon
Thoughts –Allow 15 minutes to take pictures of the ceremony site, completely set up with no guests or vendors in the area. Before you have the guests seated,

WEDDING PARTY PHOTOS

 Approximate Time – 15-30 minutes
Best Location -Venue Lobby, Venue Garden, Beach, Park, First look Location
Thoughts – WEDDING PARTY PHOTOS should be around 15 minutes to 30 minutes. We are presented with a variety of shots and poses. We start off with the basic, classic photos that you're used to, with great expressions and fabulous lighting. Then we move into a fun and creative set of photographs. Last but not least, we know how important your wedding party is to you; thus, we will definitely take some pictures with you and every single bridesmaid or groomsman separately.

IMMEDIATE FAMILY

Approximate Time– 15-30 minutes
est Location -Ceremony location, first look location
Thoughts –This session should include the couples parents, grandparents, and siblings, Plan on an average of 2 minutes per group. For example, if you have 10 groups, schedule in a 20-minute time slot. We understand how much weddings mean to the immediate family, and we want to make sure we are getting enough photos with them.

FORMALS (EXTENDED FAMILY, IMMEDIATE FAMILY, AND FRIENDS)

Approximate Time– 15-45 minutes
Best Location – Ceremony Site
Thoughts – Formals should take from 15 minutes to 45 minutes, depending on your family size and the number of guests. Plan on an average of 2 minutes per group. For instance, if you have 10 groups, then schedule a time slot of 20 minutes. While some couples want a picture with all guests, others prefer photos with select VIPs to save time. We recommend something in between. We will develop a more organized list of groups and helpers from each side of the family to assist in rounding up people.

COUPLES PHOTOS

Approximate Time– 30 -45 minutes
Best Location – Venue Garden, Beach, Hotel Lobby, Park
Thoughts – Ideally, sessions should occur 30 to 45 minutes before sunset and should last about 30-45 minutes. The lighting at this time is optimal. It also aids in capturing scenic shots with colorful skies. If your wedding is in a downtown area or surrounded by tall buildings, this specific timeframe is less crucial. However, if your venue was chosen for its spectacular ocean view or beautiful vineyard, following this timeline is essential.

RECEPTION DETAIL AND VENUE

Approximate Time– 15 minutes
Thoughts – Please allow 15 minutes to photograph the reception room, completely set up, with no guests or vendors around. Like the ceremony details, this is our only chance to capture the beauty of the reception room before guests arrive.

COUPLES SESSION – RECEPTION SNEAK OUT

Approximate Time– 15-20 minutes
Thoughts – During the reception, plan to sneak out for a couple of night shots. I only need 15 to 20 minutes; I understand you need to be a good host. However, this time is crucial if you appreciate the night photography I deliver. The best time for this is right after you have eaten or during open-floor dancing, after you've danced a few songs and want a break.

OTHER THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

Table Shots – Table shots occur when you visit each table. You can opt for formal pictures at each table or focus on photojournalism, capturing smiles and hugs as you mingle. If you plan on formal table shots, they will take about 3-5 minutes per table. For example, 20 tables would require 60-100 minutes.