Planning your wedding day timeline can feel overwhelming, but ensuring enough time for photography is key to capturing all the moments that matter. From getting ready to the final send-off, a well-structured timeline helps everything run smoothly—and ensures no special moment is missed.

As a wedding photographer, I know how to build a timeline that balances creating beautiful images with letting you fully enjoy your day. Here’s a breakdown of how much time to plan for each photography session and tips to make the most of every shot.

Getting Ready: 1–2 Hours

Why It Matters: These are some of the most intimate and emotional moments of the day, where anticipation builds, laughter flows, and final touches come together.

What We’ll Capture:

  • Details like your dress, shoes, rings, and invitation suite.
  • Candid moments of you getting ready with your wedding party.
  • Special interactions, like a first look with your parents or a quiet moment of reflection.

Tips: Have all your details ready for me when I arrive, and ensure your getting-ready space has plenty of natural light for the best photos.

First Look: 15 Minutes

Why It Matters: A first look is a private moment to see each other before the ceremony, away from the crowd. It’s emotional, intimate, and often a favorite part of the day for couples.

What We’ll Capture:

  • The raw, emotional reactions when you see each other for the first time.
  • A few relaxed portraits of just the two of you afterward.

Tips: Schedule this at least 1.5–2 hours before the ceremony to ensure you have time for portraits and family photos afterward.

Wedding Party Photos: 30–45 Minutes

Why It Matters: Your wedding party is made up of your closest friends and family, and these group shots are an important part of your story.

What We’ll Capture:

  • Fun, candid moments with your crew.
  • Formal group portraits with everyone looking their best.

Tips: Make a list of must-have groupings ahead of time and share it with your photographer so we can streamline this session.

Family Photos: 30 Minutes

Why It Matters: These are the photos your parents and grandparents will treasure most—capturing the people closest to you on such a special day.

What We’ll Capture:

  • Immediate family groupings.
  • Any extended family or special relationships you’d like to include.

Tips: Create a family photo list to ensure we capture every important combination, and designate a family member to help gather everyone.

Ceremony: 30 Minutes – 1 Hour

Why It Matters: This is the heart of your day—where you say “I do” and make your vows.

What We’ll Capture:

  • The processional, your walk down the aisle, and your partner’s reaction.
  • Candid moments of emotion during the ceremony.
  • The first kiss and recessional.

Tips: Speak with your officiant about photography restrictions ahead of time, so we can plan accordingly.

Couple’s Portraits: 30–45 Minutes

Why It Matters: These are the timeless, romantic images of just the two of you that you’ll frame and cherish forever.

What We’ll Capture:

  • Romantic shots of you and your partner, using beautiful light and unique backdrops.
  • Candid moments that showcase your connection.

Tips: Schedule this during golden hour (just before sunset) for the most flattering and dreamy lighting.

Reception: 2–3 Hours (or Coverage Until the Key Events Are Done)

Why It Matters: The reception is where the fun happens—dancing, toasts, and celebrating with your loved ones.

What We’ll Capture:

  • Your entrance, first dance, and parent dances.
  • Candid moments of laughter and joy during toasts and dancing.
  • Special moments like the cake cutting, bouquet toss, and your grand exit.

Tips: Work with your planner or DJ to ensure key events are spread out so your photographer can capture them all.

Grand Exit: 15–20 Minutes

Why It Matters: The grand exit is the perfect way to end your wedding day and make a statement for your final photos.

What We’ll Capture:

  • Sparkler send-offs, confetti showers, or other fun exit ideas.
  • Candid moments of you and your guests celebrating together one last time.

Tips: Have extras of your exit items (like sparklers or confetti) so we can stage a quick test run for the perfect shot.

Final Thoughts

A well-planned wedding photography timeline ensures that every moment—big and small—is beautifully captured. While these are general timeframes, every wedding is unique, and I love working with couples to customize their day.

If you’re planning your wedding and want help creating a timeline that works for you, I’d love to chat! Together, we’ll make sure your day flows seamlessly and your photos are everything you dreamed of.