How To Create A Wedding Day Timeline
As a photographer there is no one else that is effected by the timing of events on a wedding day as much as I am. That’s why I believe having a wedding day timeline is so crucial. If your using a wedding planner (and I HIGHLY recommend it) they are very knowledgable and accustomed to how the days events should go. They usually take great consideration of the needs of your photographer to be able to capture every detail of your day. I work directly with my clients planner. We both strive to have the wedding run as efficiently as possible. The smoother the wedding day the easier it is for me to do my job and I have to opportunity to capture as many moments as possible.
I’ve had clients that weren’t able to have a wedding planner and that is totally ok. I have sample timelines for my clients and will help you craft a really great wedding timeline. So if you aren’t able to work with a wedding planner, or would just like an idea of what a typical wedding day with me would look like, I’ve put together a little list for you.
Timeline:
Bridal Details (30-45 minutes)
All the details! Dress, shoes, rings, jewelry, invitations, bouquet, cuff links, ties, wedding gifts etc. Also candids of hair and makeup.
Bride & Groom Getting Ready (45 minutes)
Bride getting on her dress. Groom putting on his tie and coat. I don’t go to multiple getting ready location. If the bride and groom are getting ready at separate properties, I do mock getting ready photos of the groom when he arrives before the first look.
First Look (30 minutes)
This time also accounts for the time it takes to walk to the first look location and set the scene. This is really the only time the bride and groom will be alone on their wedding day. I want them to have the opportunity for a time to embrace each other, soak in the moment, and enjoy each other and talk for a minute.
Bride & Groom Portraits + Individuals (30 minutes)
The goal is to have 10 minutes of bride and groom portraits. About 10 minutes of individuals photos, 5 minutes each. And then 10 minutes of bride and groom photos in a different location. This insures us if for some reason we aren’t able to do husband and wife photos at sunset that we have enough great photos for your album.
Bride with Bridesmaids (15 minutes)
I like to start with the girls first, since they like to be photographed with fresh hair and makeup.
Full Bridal Party (15 minutes)
It takes at least 5 minutes just to get everyone in position. If the bridal party is large the guys might be asked to get chairs from the ceremony for us to use. Another reason I photograph the ladies first.
Groom with Groomsmen (15 minutes)
Individuals and whole group (the same as the girls).
Immediate Family (20-30+ minutes)
Obviously this part can take more time depending on family size and any additional extended family photos. Family photos should be done as close to ceremony time as possible but enough time before any guest arrive. Make sure to end at least 30 minutes before the ceremony to avoid any guests seeing the bride and it gives me time to photograph the ceremony before guest arrive.
Bride & Groom Hidden Away & Ceremony Details (20-30 minutes)
This time is crucial. It give my couple time to hide away, do any last minute touch ups, drink some water and relax. It also gives us a shooting cushion if for some reason the timeline gets behind.
Wedding Ceremony (30 minutes)
Most wedding ceremonies start about 5-10 minutes late and last only about 20 minutes. If the couple is having a religious ceremony you will need at least an 1hr dedicated here.
Husband & Wife Sunset Portraits (30 minutes)
The newly wed’s are whisked away for husband and wife photos right after the ceremony. We want to capitalize on that beautiful golden hour light that is my favorite for portraits. The exception is during summer months when the sunsets well after a normal dinner hour. In this case, portrait time is set according to sunset hour.
Reception Details & Cocktail Hour (20 minutes)
At family owned properties were the family/planner/friends are helping set up, they are usually finished before the ceremony. But most established or corporate owned venues do not set the room until about 15-20 minutes before the reception starts (this is usually done to avoid paying all the wait staff extra hours). The reception details need to be photographed before guest are seated. I know that sometimes an additional twenty minutes might not be possible and in that case I will work as quickly as possible.
Reception (120 minutes)
The first 90 minutes is the best time for the grand entrance, first dance, toasts, dinner, and cake cutting. That leave 30 minutes for open dancing. In my opinion thats plenty of dance time before all the photos start to look the same. I found that this order actually keeps people on the dance floor longer because they are not continually pulled away for milestone moments. This is also the time couples can add additional hours of coverage if dancing photos are really important to them or if there is a grand exit planned.
Click HERE to see more photos from a real wedding.
