How to Create a Wedding Photography Timeline That Flows

One of the keys to a smooth wedding day is having a well-planned timeline, and your wedding photography schedule plays a major role in that. As a luxury wedding photographer, I help my couples plan timelines that ensure they capture all the important moments without feeling rushed or stressed. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through how to create a wedding photography timeline that flows seamlessly, ensuring every special moment is captured.

Step 1: Start with the Ceremony Time

The first thing to decide when creating your photography timeline is the ceremony start time. From there, you can work backward to schedule pre-ceremony portraits and getting ready photos. Typically, I recommend beginning photography 2-3 hours before the ceremony, depending on whether you’re doing a first look.

Photography Tip: Having a first look can save time after the ceremony, allowing for more couple’s portraits and cocktail hour shots.

Step 2: Build in Time for Getting Ready

Capturing the details of the getting-ready process is a favorite for many brides and grooms. Whether it’s the bride putting on her gown or the groom buttoning up his jacket, these intimate moments are important to document. Allocate at least 60-90 minutes for getting-ready photos.

Photography Tip: Make sure the getting-ready space is clean and well-lit, as it will make a big difference in the quality of your photos.

Step 3: Allow Plenty of Time for Family and Wedding Party Photos

Family portraits can sometimes take longer than expected, especially if you have a large family. I suggest allowing at least 30-45 minutes for family portraits and 30 minutes for wedding party photos.

Photography Tip: Creating a shot list of family groupings in advance will help ensure that everything goes smoothly.

Step 4: Plan for Sunset Photos

If your wedding day allows, plan to take advantage of golden hour for some stunning sunset portraits. These photos are often some of the most breathtaking from the entire day, with soft lighting that adds a romantic glow.

Photography Tip: Be flexible with the timeline to ensure you can capture golden hour shots if your wedding is in the late afternoon or evening.

Step 5: Don’t Forget the Reception

Make sure to build time into the timeline for important reception moments like the first dance, cake cutting, and toasts. Having your photographer on hand for these moments will ensure that no memory is missed.

Photography Tip: Allow some candid moments as well—these often result in some of the most joyful and spontaneous photos.

Need help planning your wedding photography timeline? Contact Austin Garnette Photography for expert advice and beautiful images that flow seamlessly with your big day.