Forget the rigid schedules and forced smiles. Your wedding day is a beautiful tapestry woven with you two & your tribe, laughter, and candid moments that deserve to be captured authentically. It’s important to me as a wedding photographer to create an experience that reflects your unique story, not a cookie-cutter timeline. So, ditch the stress and embrace the flow! This guide will help you with your wedding day timeline planning that celebrates your love story in all its unscripted glory.
Embrace the Unfolding Narrative:
Modern love is about genuine connection, not staged perfection. Instead of micromanaging every minute, allow your day to unfold organically. This gives your photographer the freedom to capture the real emotions, the stolen glances, and the unexpected moments of joy that make your love story unique.
Prioritize the Moments that Matter:
Instead of focusing on a rigid timeline, prioritize the moments that truly matter to you. Whether it’s the quiet intimacy of getting ready with your wedding party or the energy of the first dance, identify the key moments you want to cherish forever.
Let Your Photographer Be Your Guide:
Photographing over 500 weddings I’ve become an expert in storytelling, reading the room and knowing how to anticipate beautiful moments by trusting my experience, this allows me to guide you throughout the day. I’ll suggest angles, locations, and lighting situations to create stunning images without interrupting the flow of your celebration.
Light & Laughter Over Rigid Poses:
Modern love is all about capturing the true essence of your connection. Ditch the stiff poses and forced smiles in favour of candid moments that showcase your genuine self. Embrace the laughter, the tears, and the in-between moments that make your love story unique.
Remember, your wedding day is a celebration of love, not a photo shoot.
By embracing an organic approach and prioritizing authentic moments, you’ll create a photography experience that reflects the modern romantic spirit and leaves you with a timeless collection of memories.
Below are some example timings of a typical wedding day timeline:
- Getting Ready: Groom 30-45 minutes
Some grooms prefer a quieter getting-ready experience, while others love being surrounded by their favourite crew. No matter the environment, make sure it reflects what’s true to your nature. - Getting Ready: Bride 1 to 1.5 hours
I typically arrive near the end of hair and makeup, allowing time for touch-ups and capturing those final moments of anticipation. But remember, it’s your day! Let me know what feels best for you.
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The Ceremony: 15 – 45 + minutes
Ceremonies vary in length, and there’s no right or wrong answer. I’ve witnessed quick elopements and traditional ceremonies lasting up to 45 minutes. Whatever your choice, factor in time for guests to congratulate you afterwards unless you prefer a quick exit. -
Family Portraits: 15 – 30 minutes
The size and number of group combinations will determine the time needed. I usually suggest around 10 combinations but it’s best to consider minimizing groups to avoid merging into cocktail hour or portrait time.
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Wedding Party & the Couples Portrait – 30 minutes to 1 hour
I always scout locations beforehand to ensure beautiful aesthetics & light for your portraits. Consider how much time you’d like to spend away from guests – some couples prioritize socializing, while others prefer more portraits. Keep in mind, however, the more time we have, the more relaxed we will be, creating better images. -
The Reception – 2 to 6 hours
There’s so much happening at your reception. Your first dance, cake cutting, dancing, Uncle Bob cutting moves on the dance floor, friends and family sharing all the joy. As each wedding is so unique I recommend deciding whether you would like me to stay until the end of the night or until the dance floor gets going. I find 30 minutes after the guests start dancing is sufficient to round a full story from the day – from there, the photographs don’t change a lot. In saying that, some couples have a send-off. eg. sparkler exit tunnel at the end of the night, in this case, I would stay until the end of the night. Please see an example duration of timings below.
Partner one or Groom: 30 – 45mins
Partner two or Bride: 1 – 1.5hrs
Ceremony: 30mins – 1hr
Hugs after the ceremony: 20mins
Family Portraits: 20mins
Wedding or Bridal Party: 30mins
Portraits: 30mins – 1hr
Reception: (I usually suggest staying another 30 mins after the dance floor kicks off )
Remember, this is just a guide. Feel free to adjust the timeline to reflect your unique preferences and priorities. Communication is key, so let’s discuss what you envision for your wedding day photography and create a plan that captures your love story authentically. For any further info please reach out to my contact page.
