The Ultimate timeline for perfect wedding photos
If you plan to get married soon, you know how challenging it can be, given that you must consider so many things. Many couples find creating a perfect timeline extremely challenging. But don’t worry- we’re here to help! Here, we will present you the perfect wedding photography timeline we have created for our brides, which they find helpful. Using it will ensure you have plenty of time to capture all memorable instants and enjoy a stress-free celebration.
The most essential aspect we need to know before creating a wedding photography timeline is whether or not you would go for the first look. Why? Because your decision results in a huge impact on other aspects of the day.
Wedding Photography Timeline with First Look
1:00- The photographer arrives
1:15- 1:45- Photographer captures the bridal details ( rings, dresses, shoes, invitations, etc.)
1:45- 2:00- Pre-ceremony pictures, including makeup, getting ready.
2:15- Bride gets dressed
2:30- Groom departs for first look
2:35- Bride departs for first look
2:45- 3:15- First look, Bride & Groom pictures
3:20- 3:30- Bride & Bridesmaid Photos
3:35- 3:45- Full wedding party photos
3:50- 4:00- Groom & Groomsmen Photos
4:05- 4:20- Photographer capturing ceremony decor
4:30- The bridal party lines up for the ceremony
5:00- Ceremony Starts
5:30- Ceremony Ends
5:35- 6:30- Cocktail Hour/Family Portraits
6:30- Reception Starts
6:45- Bride & Groom Grand Entrance
7:00- 7:15- Couple first dance, Father- Daughter/Mother/Son dances
7:30- Dinner served + speeches
9:30- Open Dancing
10:00- Photographer Leaves
Wedding Photography Timeline Without a First Look
2:00- Arrival of the Photograph
2:10- 3:00- Photographs the bridal detail- dress, shoes, flowers, rings, invitation, etc. + Pre-ceremony Pictures.
3:10- Bridesmaid getting dressed for pictures, last minute hair and makeup touches.
4:00-4:15- Groom and Groomsmen pictures.
4:15-4:30- Bride and Bridesmaid pictures
4:35-4:50- Photograph ceremony & Reception decor
5:00- Ceremony Starts
5:30- Ceremony Ends
5:40- Cocktail hour
6:00-6:15- Bridal party portraits
6:20- 6:55- Bride and Groom Portraits
Guest invited to enter the reception
7:00- Reception starts + Bride & Groom Grand Entrance
7:10- Dinner Served
7:30- Open Dance floor
9:55- Reception Ends/Departure
These examples of the wedding photography timeline seem to work very well. So, whether you are doing a first look, the timeline can be easily adjusted to your needs.
However, there are a few other questions couples often don’t know the answer to. For instance, you may wonder, "How many hours would you need to book your photographer for? Is it 6 hours, 8 hours, 10 hours? Well, here is your answer:
6 Hours of Coverage
Six hours of coverage doesn't mean you’re running on a tight budget. This works for intimate ceremonies and smaller locations, too. It includes covering only important moments such as portraits, ceremonies, family photos, the first dance, and cake cutting.
8 Hours of Coverage
This is enough time for an average-sized affair where you have up to 100 guests. The extra 2-hour coverage will let you capture in detail getting ready shots, reception space, and the start of the dance party. If you plan to go for a first look, we recommend opting for 8 hours of courage.
10 Hours of Coverage
Don't want to feel rushed? Then, 10 hours of coverage is the right thing to do. Since your photographer would be on site for most of the day, he has enough time to get all the details and preparation shots and a lot of time for a first look. If you have a ceremony and reception at different locations, we would recommend opting for 10 hours of coverage.
The key to a stress-free and joyous wedding day is a well-planned wedding photography timeline! We hope you have understood that an effective timeline will ensure your day goes smoothly. With a defined schedule, you will be able to ensure all of your vendors are on the same page while setting aside for doing things you would love to do.
Planning to get married soon and need assistance? Let us connect! We would love to craft your wedding photography timeline as you have envisioned. Also, if you want to learn more about wedding planning, read our blogs.