As you get closer to your big day, you’ll start envisioning exactly how everything is going to unfold…

How long each event will take…
How to make sure you have enough time to fit everything in…
How to ensure you enjoy all of it…

If you’ve already thought about this – perfect! You’re ahead of the game!
If you need a little help, I thought I’d walk you through a sample wedding photography timeline.

A few things to keep in mind:
This is just a sample. Every wedding is different, and not every wedding will look like this.

The most important part to note though is the amount of time set for most of these events. Again, these are just guidelines.

Suggested time required:
60 minutes – Bride Prep
60 minutes – Groom Prep
30 minutes – Bridal Party Photos
45 minutes – Bride + Groom Photos
30 minutes – Family Photos (if you have large extended families, it may take longer)
15 minutes – Reception Decor Photos
10 minutes – Ceremony Decor Photos

Sample Timeline:
*This timeline scenario is if the whole day takes place at one location with an 8 hour photography package… 
12:30–2:00pm:
“Getting Ready” photos of Bride with entourage and Groom with entourage (1 hour each)

2:00pm:
Bride and Groom “First Look” followed by Wedding Party Formals

3:00–3:30pm:
Family Formals

3:30pm:
Candids of guests arriving

4:00pm:
Ceremony

4:30pm:
Ceremony end/big group photo

4:30–5:30pm:
Finish missing Formal Photos/Bride & Groom join cocktail hour
*Second shooter covering cocktail hour

6:00pm:
Bride and Groom announced to Dinner/First Dance/Cake Cutting

6:15pm:
Dinner is served/speeches throughout dinner

7:45pm:
Parent dances

8:30pm:
Photo coverage complete
*Sunset photos depending on time/location

And there you have it! Of course, if you have a wedding planner/coordinator, we’d be sure to work with them for the most ideal and efficient timeline, but in the mean time, this should give you a pretty good starting point of reference.