
Wedding Photography Timeline
To determine the wedding day timeline I work backward from the ceremony time to recommend 
when each part of the day should begin.  The times listed are minimum amounts I recommend if 
you select an hourly package.  You may add an additional hour or more to the getting ready 
coverage and pre-ceremony portrait times if hiring us for our full day package.
With First Look
A minimum of 2.5 hours before the ceremony: Photographer arrives to capture images of bride 
and bridesmaids getting ready if you want this time captured.  (min. 1 hour recommended).  
Groom and groomsmen may take 30 minutes.  
A minimum of 1.5 hours before the ceremony:  First Look followed by bride & groom + bridal 
party portraits. (min. 1 hour recommended)
30 minutes before the ceremony: The bride and groom hide out at ceremony site and freshen 
up as guests arrive.
Immediately after the ceremony: Main photographer captures family portraits at the ceremony 
site while second photographer captures reception details followed by candid and posed photos 
of the cocktail hour.
1 Hour after the ceremony: The reception begins.  Typically the bridal party and newlyweds are 
formally announced into the reception and immediately begin their first dance followed by 
dinner.  The wedding planner or DJ will help plan the timeline for the reception events.  
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Without First Look
A minimum of 1 hour before the ceremony: Photographer arrives to capture images of bride and 
bridesmaids getting ready if you want this time captured. Groom and groomsmen may take 30 
minutes.  
Immediately after the ceremony: Main photographer captures family portraits at the ceremony 
site followed by bridal party and bride & groom portraits (off site) while second photographer 
captures reception details followed by candid and posed photos of the cocktail hour.
1 Hour after the ceremony: The reception begins.  Typically the bridal party and newlyweds are 
formally announced into the reception and immediately begin their first dance followed by 
dinner.  The wedding planner or DJ will help plan the timeline for the reception events.