Wedding Day Timelines
It’s all about teamwork
In collaboration with wedding planners, I dedicate myself to shaping the wedding day timeline with utmost care. Though I don't control the entire schedule, it's deeply important to me that we work together. This ensures that every precious moment of your wedding is beautifully captured, with all the time it deserves, without feeling rushed.
Here's a suggested wedding timeline that optimizes photography:
1. Bridal Preparation (1.5 -2 hours)
- Details: dress, shoes, rings, jewelry, bouquet.
- First look with the bridesmaids.
- Candid shots of the bride and bridesmaids getting ready.
From a storytelling perspective, "getting ready" photos offer a chronological start to the wedding album. They set the stage, providing a full beginning-to-end narrative of the day.
2. Groom Preparation (45 minutes-1 hour)
- Details: suit, watch, cufflinks, shoes.
- Candid shots of the groom and groomsmen getting ready.
- This is often when I get venue detail shots, including the untouched ceremony and reception locations.
3. First Look (20-30 minutes)
- A private, emotional moment before the ceremony. It can save time post-ceremony and streamline the day.
The first look allows a quiet time to connect, express emotions, and share a special experience away from the eyes of all the guests.
4. Bride and Groom Portraits (30-40 minutes)
- Ideally, after the first look.
5. Bridal Party Photos (20-30 minutes)
- Idealy after the first look and the bride and groom portraits.
- Group shots, individual pairings, and some candid, fun shots.
6. Ceremony (30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on tradition)
- Guest arrival, bride's entrance, exchange of vows, the first kiss, and exit.
7. Family Portraits (30-45 minutes)
- Immediate families first, then extended families.
I enjoy adding a playful twist to family and guest photos by leveraging the distinctive elements of the venue. Features such as balconies, staircases, and boat docks, serve as inspiration, allowing me to infuse creativity into the shots.
8. Cocktail Hour (1 hour)
- Candid shots of guests, capturing the ambiance and details like the decor.
9. Reception Details and Decor (20-30 minutes)
- Shots of the venue, table settings, centerpieces, cake, etc., preferably before guests enter.
To capture the intricacies of your beautifully prepared reception, I prefer accessing the completed area before guests arrive, ideally early in the day.
10. Grand Entrance (5 minutes)
11. First Dance (5-10 minutes)
12. Parent Dances (10-15 minutes)
11. Welcome Toasts from Hosts (10-15 minutes)
**12. Dinner (1 hour)**
- Candid shots of guests.
The photographers should eat when the couple eats. This is really the only break for a photographer. Most people don’t want pictures of themselves eating however I do take a few candids and pictures of the food before people dig in.
13. Cake Cutting, Bouquet and Garter Toss, and additional toasts (15-20 minutes)
I've noticed a trend where couples are veering away from traditional cake cutting and eliminating the toss. Some opt for pies over cakes, while others prefer dessert tables.
14. Party and Dancing (1-2 hours)
- Candid moments of guests dancing and enjoying.
- This is an excellent time to sneak away for 10-15 minutes to get glowy sunset portraits.
15. Grand Exit or Send-Off (15-20 minutes)
- Sparklers, confetti, boats, vintage cars. Sometimes, great photos don’t just happen. This is true in the case of the grand exit. Let me help you plan this!
Despite meticulous planning, unforeseen challenges can arise. I collaborate closely with wedding planners to address issues promptly, often resolving them so seamlessly you might never realize they occurred. To ensure your day proceeds without a hitch, I actively engage with the wedding planner and other vendors well in advance. This pre-wedding partnership ensures we operate cohesively as a team on your special day.
