As both a wedding photographer and someone who works closely with couples planning their big day, I’ve seen firsthand how a well-planned timeline can make or break the wedding day experience. Here’s my guide to creating a timeline that ensures beautiful photos while keeping you present and stress-free on your big day.
Start at the End
The biggest timeline mistake? Starting with getting ready and working forward. Instead:
- Write down your ceremony time
- Note your sunset time (crucial for photos!)
- Work backward for preparation time
- Work forward for reception timing
This approach ensures you prioritize the most important parts of your day.
The Getting Ready Sweet Spot
For traditional wedding days, I recommend starting photography coverage 3 hours before the ceremony. This allows time for:
- Detail shots (30 minutes)
- Getting ready photos (1 hour)
- First Look and couple portraits (45 minutes)
- Wedding party photos (30 minutes)
- Buffer time (15 minutes)
Pro tip: Hair and makeup should be completed 30 minutes before you need to get dressed. This builds in time for any last-minute touch-ups.
Golden Hour Magic
As your photographer, I’m always thinking about lighting. Schedule couple portraits during golden hour (the hour before sunset) for those dreamy, romantic photos you see in wedding magazines. We only need 15-20 minutes – trust me, it’s worth stepping away from the reception briefly for these shots.
Buffer Time Is Your Friend
Add 15-minute buffers between major events. These small pockets of time make a huge difference when:
- Hair and makeup runs late
- Family members wander off before group photos
- The dress takes longer to button than expected
- You simply need a moment to breathe
A Note About Family Photos
Family photos work best immediately after the ceremony when everyone is already gathered. Pro tip: Assign a family member to be the “coordinator” who knows all the photo combinations and can help gather people quickly.
Remember, your wedding day timeline isn’t just a schedule – it’s a tool to help you stay present and enjoy every moment of your celebration. The best timelines are realistic, flexible, and prioritize what matters most to you as a couple.
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