Planning your wedding day timeline? Here’s a rough guide to help you figure out how much time to set aside for photography! If you've booked shorter coverage, just pick the moments that mean the most to you.
Every wedding is unique—whether it's Bride & Groom, Bride & Bride, or Groom & Groom—so times will vary depending on your plans. Most couples book 10+ hours of coverage, but the golden rule is: the more time you allow, the more fun and relaxed your day will be!
Getting Ready (Approx. 3 Hours Before the Ceremony)
I usually start with Partner A about 3 hours before the ceremony, spending an hour capturing all the fun pre-wedding moments—details, getting dressed, and final touches.
Then, I head over to Partner B about 2 hours before they leave for the ceremony. If there's a long drive, be sure to factor that in!
Want some lingerie shots? Be ready in lingerie, veil, and robe when I arrive. Otherwise, try to hold off on fully dressing until I get there—capturing those moments of your attendants helping you button up or fix your tie makes for amazing memories!
I also grab shots of you + your attendants, parents, and even pets before heading to the ceremony 15 minutes ahead of you. Ceremony (Approx. 30-45 Minutes)
I arrive at least 15 minutes before Partner B to capture Partner A, attendants, parents, and all those emotional pre-ceremony moments.
Partner B arrives? I’ll snap a few quick shots before you head down the aisle.
I photograph the ceremony discreetly, so you can stay in the moment without distractions.
Once you're officially MARRIED, you get 5-10 minutes to celebrate while guests shower you with kisses & confetti!
Family Photos (Approx. 30 Minutes)
Some couples love them, some would rather skip them—totally up to you! But if you do want family shots, here are the typical combos:
✔ A & B + A’s Parents
✔ A & B + B’s Parents
✔ A & B + Both Sets of Parents
✔ A & B + B’s Family
✔ A & B + A’s Family
✔ A & B + Grandparents
(We can always add more!)
Wedding Party & Couple Photos (Approx. 1.5 Hours + Travel Time)
This is just for you and your wedding party, so I need 100% of your attention!
We typically pick one main location (bring drinks & snacks—this is often your first real chance to chill!) and then hit up a few quick spots for variety.
The more time we have, the more relaxed and fun the shoot will be!
Reception Coverage (10+ Hours Total)
I capture candid moments of you and your guests mingling, laughing, and having the time of your lives.Coverage includes cake cutting, speeches, bouquet/garter toss, night shoot, first dance, and any fun farewells (like sparklers!).Important note: If I'm covering 10+ hours, I’ll need a meal at the reception to keep my energy up!
Example Timeline (For a 3PM Ceremony)
⏰ 12:00 PM – Photographer arrives at Partner A’s house
⏰ 1:00 PM – Photographer arrives at Partner B’s house
⏰ 2:40 PM – Photographer leaves for ceremony
⏰ 3:10 PM – Partner B arrives at the ceremony (fashionably late, of course
⏰ 4:15 PM – Ceremony + family photos wrapped up
⏰ 4:30 PM – Wedding party heads to location shoot
⏰ 6:15 PM – Wedding party arrives at the reception
⏰ 7:00 PM – Couple is introduced & the party begins!
