For most of our couples, it can be hard to know how much time they will need on their wedding day for photography coverage.  It can be hard to know how much time you will actually need at different times of the day, and how to schedule your day so that you have enough time to actually enjoy it.  We’re always happy to work with couples based on their individual schedule, but I thought it might also be helpful to be able to look at a sample timeline based on our experience.

 

This timeline is based on having a first look, which I wrote about in more detail last week.  As  you can see, when we do a first look we are able to do the majority of your photography early in the day so that you can fully enjoy your time with your friends and family once the ceremony starts.  Trust me, it’s great. 🙂

1:00 – Photography Begins:

Detail shots of your dress, shoes, jewelry, invitation, bouquet, etc.

Final hair and makeup touchups

Candid shots of bride, bridesmaids, and family

2:00 – Bride Dresses

Candids of bride putting on dress

Portraits of bride in her dress with fresh hair and makeup

2:30  – First Look

Bride and Groom see each other for the first time

Bride and Groom portraits

3:30 – Bridal Party Photos

4:00 – Bride arrives at ceremony site, out of sight from guests, to refresh and compose herself for the ceremony

Shoot ceremony details, guests arriving, etc.

4:30 – Ceremony Begins

5:00 – Ceremony Ends

5:10 – Family photos

5:30 – Cocktail hour

Photograph Reception Details

6:30 – Grand Entrance, cake cutting,

6:45 – Dinner, toasts, etc.

7:30 – Depending on time of year, Sunset shot with bride and groom

8:00 – Father-Daughter, Mother-Son, First Dance, dancing dancing dancing

9:00 – Photography Coverage Ends

Every wedding is different, but this should at least give you a place to start.  Remember to leave yourself extra time if your ceremony and reception are in different locations, or if you plan on going to a separate location for your portraits.  Always plan for more buffer time than you think you will need.  Everything takes longer on your wedding day.

Finally, remember to consider what time the sun will set on your wedding day.  We will want to plan on doing as many of your portraits as possible with sunlight, and we will also want to try and capture a sunset image if we can.