The Ultimate Wedding Photography Timeline: When to Take Photos on Your Big Day
March 28, 2025
Your wedding day will be one of the most magical, joy-filled days of your life, and we want to make sure every heartfelt moment is captured beautifully. We know how fast the day flies by, which is why having a well-planned photography timeline is key to ensuring you can soak in every second without stress. Over the years, we’ve perfected the timing of wedding day photos to balance stunning imagery with a seamless experience—so you can be fully present and savor every moment! Let’s dive into the ultimate wedding photography timeline to help you plan your perfect celebration.
Getting Ready (2-3 Hours Before the Ceremony)
Why It Matters:
The getting-ready portion of the day is perfect for capturing the anticipation, excitement, and all the special details before the big moment. If having lots of creative detail shots, time for fun wedding party shenanigans, and candid behind-the-scenes moments is important to you, consider allotting extra time to your getting-ready coverage so we can capture it all seamlessly.
Photos to Capture:
- Bride and groom getting ready with their wedding party
- Candid moments with family and friends
- Detail shots of dress, shoes, rings, bouquet, invitations, and accessories
- Groom getting suited up
- Bride’s final touches (zipping dress, putting on jewelry, veil placement)
- First looks with bridesmaids, parents, or other special people
First Look (Optional – 1.5 to 2 Hours Before the Ceremony)
Why It Matters:
A first look is a deeply personal, quiet moment where you get to see each other before the whirlwind of the ceremony begins. It’s a chance to take a deep breath together, soak in the excitement, and share a few unscripted, emotional moments away from the crowd. This intimate pause in the day not only eases pre-ceremony nerves but also allows for more portraits earlier in the schedule, giving you extra time to enjoy the rest of your wedding celebration.
Beyond the emotional benefits, a first look also provides a practical advantage—once you’ve had your moment together, we can invite your wedding party and family for photos before the ceremony. This means fewer formal photos after the ceremony and more time to sip cocktails, hug your loved ones, and soak in the joy of your reception without feeling rushed.
Photos to Capture:
- The emotional reaction of both partners seeing each other
- Sweet moments and embraces
- Portraits of the couple before the ceremony
Wedding Party & Family Photos (1 to 1.5 Hours Before the Ceremony)
Why It Matters:
Taking these photos before the ceremony (if possible) allows you and your loved ones the freedom to enjoy your cocktail hour without feeling rushed or pulled in different directions. We know how important it is to truly soak in the energy and joy of the day, and this approach ensures you don’t miss those precious moments with family and friends. Rather than feeling like you’re checking things off a list, you’ll walk into your reception with a sense of calm, knowing the formal photos are done, and you can fully embrace the celebration. It’s about giving you the gift of presence and allowing you to experience every laugh, hug, and joyful moment.
Photos to Capture:
- Bride with bridesmaids / Groom with groomsmen
- Full wedding party group shots
- Immediate family portraits
Ceremony (Time Varies)
Why It Matters:
This is the heart of your wedding day—the moment you say “I do.”
Photos to Capture:
- Guests arriving and being seated
- Groom’s anticipation at the altar
- Wedding party processional
- Bride walking down the aisle
- Emotional reactions of guests and couple
- The vows, ring exchange, and first kiss
- The joyful recessional
Post-Ceremony Portraits Optional (30 Minutes After Ceremony)
Photos to Capture:
- Just-married couple portraits
- Additional family portraits if not done earlier
- Candid moments with guests
Cocktail Hour (During Post-Ceremony Portraits)
Why It Matters:
This is the perfect time for us to capture candid interactions between your guests while you finish up portraits. This is also when we dedicate some time to documenting your reception space before all your guests are welcomed inside.
Photos to Capture:
- Guests mingling and enjoying drinks
- Detail shots of decor, signature cocktails, and hors d’oeuvres
Reception (Time Varies)
Why It Matters:
The reception is when the celebration truly begins! We capture all the joy and excitement of the evening.
Photos to Capture:
- Grand entrance of couple and wedding party
- First dance
- Toasts and speeches
- Candid moments of laughter and love
- Dinner and reception decor details
- Cake cutting
- Dancing and party energy
- Special exits (sparkler send-off, classic car getaway, etc.)
Sunset Portraits
Sunset Portraits (Timing Varies Based on Sunset Time)
Why It Matters:
There’s something truly magical about sunset portraits—when the light turns soft and golden, creating the most romantic, ethereal glow. Taking a few moments away from the reception to step into this dreamy light results in some of the most breathtaking photos of the day. It’s also a beautiful chance for you and your partner to slow down, soak in the moment, and enjoy a little quiet time together amidst the excitement of the evening.
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