Create the Perfect Wedding Photos Timeline
Plan the best timings for your wedding photos with our timeline tips and example.
When planning the itinerary for your big day, it’s tempting to try to organize your wedding photos timeline too. And while it is possible to do this, your schedule will be a lot more successful if you create it with your wedding photographer. As they’ll know, from experience, precisely how long each shot should take. It’s our job after all to ensure that every moment is captured as you imagined. And the only we can do that is by carefully planning a wedding photos timeline with you.
To give you an idea of our scheduling process, and to ensure you’re fully prepared before meeting with your wedding photographer. We thought we’d share a few tips on how to create a wedding photos timeline, along with an example.
Share Your Vision with Your Wedding Photographer
As photographers, we can’t plan a wedding photos timeline without knowing what your overall vision is. What types of shots do you fantasize about having in your wedding album? What are the key areas you want covered?
If you’re not 100% sure on your preferred style, start saving pictures from real weddings that speak to you. Build up enough different shots and your wedding photographer will be able to get a feel for what you like.
Plan Photography Around Natural Light
Time of day and location play a crucial part in the mood of outside photography. As natural light can dramatically affect how certain shots feel. Your photographer will likely plan your wedding photos timeline around the rising and setting of the sun to achieve whichever vibe you desire from your photos. While also considering which combination of light and location will be the most flattering.
For instance, the bright midday sun can sometimes be a little harsh on the skin if standing in it directly. In this case, your wedding photographer will probably suggest finding a shaded area to take portraits in. Perhaps under some trees or a gazebo. Somewhere with softer, more flattering lighting conditions.
Allow for Delays and Travel
Even the best laid plans can come unstuck if you don’t allow for little things to go wrong. A family member who can’t be found, a taxi stuck in traffic, a speech that goes on too long… Weddings never run completely on time. Which is why it’s important to allow yourself enough time to get each shot, and potentially add buffers to your wedding photos timeline.
Give yourself, and others, time to get around without feeling stressed about timings. 10–15 minutes between each critical part of the day should do it, depending on the scale of your celebration.
A Sample Wedding Photos Timeline
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Getting Ready
During this time, your photographer/s will capture you both preparing for the day. While also taking detail shots of stationery, accessories and any sentimental items.
3:15 PM – 3:45 PM: First Look
Not every couple wants to do a first look, and if you’d rather not see your partner before the ceremony, adjust your wedding photos timeline accordingly.
The benefit of scheduling this time together is, firstly, how wonderful it is! Having a moment with one another before the hectic day begins is serenely special. And secondly, you also get the opportunity to shoot plenty of portraits early. Giving you more precious time with loved ones later in the day.
4:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Wedding Party Photos
Gather your VIPs for some pre-ceremony group shots. Be sure to brief those involved to ensure everyone is there on time.
4:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Family Portraits
5:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Ceremony
Even if your photographer has shot at your ceremony location before, it’s a good idea to walk through where they’ll shoot from on the day. If there are any unique parts of the ceremony you’d like captured in-detail, be sure to go through those too.
5:45 PM – 6:45 PM: Couple Portraits & Cocktail Hour Photos
If you took some portraits after your first look, then you may be able to bring down the time spent with your photographer following the ceremony. But don’t rush this exciting and intimate time together. The post-ceremony buzz often produces some of the most romantic moments between couples.
7:00 PM – 10:30 PM: Coverage of Reception
If you want shots of your reception taken before guests arrive, be sure to add that into your wedding photos timeline. It does make a nice addition and helps to highlight all the hard work that went into planning the day.
It’s important to agree on exactly when your photography will stop shooting, to avoid any uncomfortable conversations on the big day. This will also give you the opportunity to rearrange the timings of certain events so they can be captured. For instance, if you’re making your grand exit at 11:30pm, and your photographer is leaving at 10pm, perhaps you should stage a pretend grand exit before they go? It’s more normal than you’d think and, if required, helps to complete the story of the day.
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer in Kitchener, Toronto, or anywhere in-between, to help you craft your wedding photos timeline – I’d love to have a chat with you! I’ve shot over 300 weddings, and my experience capturing celebrations will ensure that not a moment is missed on your special day.
You are welcome to browse my various portfolios, and if you like what you see, please feel free to inquire about availability for your wedding date.
