Every moment on your wedding day is significant, and ensuring that each one is captured perfectly requires a well-thought-out photography timeline! A carefully structured timeline will allow for the documentation of all key moments without making anyone feel rushed, allowing you and your guests to fully savor your special day.
Start With the Big Moments and Pre-Ceremony Photos
After you land on the perfect wedding photographer, discuss with them the major events you want to capture, such as the ceremony, the first look(if you choose to do one), and the reception. Allocate specific time slots for each event to ensure they are given the attention they deserve. This will help create a foundation for your timeline and ensure no important moments are missed!
Pre-ceremony photos are a wonderful way to capture the excitement and anticipation of the day. Include time for getting ready shots of both the bride and groom and portraits with the bridal party and family. Don’t forget to request that your photographer schedule time for detail shots, such as the rings, dress, and venue. These images add depth and context to your wedding album. Plan on about 60-90 minutes for all the getting-ready shots and detail photos.
The First Look and Ceremony
The first look is a special, private moment between the couple before the ceremony. It’s an excellent opportunity for emotional, candid shots. If you choose to have a first look, allocate 30-45 minutes for this in a serene, picturesque location. This also helps to ease the pre-ceremony nerves and can provide some beautiful, intimate photographs.
During the ceremony, ensure your photographer captures all essential moments, from walking down the aisle to exchanging vows and the first kiss. The ceremony typically lasts between 30-60 minutes, so make sure your photographer is prepared to move discreetly and capture these moments without interruptions.
Post-Ceremony Photos and Reception
After the ceremony, plan for family and bridal party portraits. Allow for sufficient time for each group of photos to avoid feeling rushed. Plan for about 30 minutes for family portraits and another 30 minutes for bridal party photos. Following the group shots, take some time for romantic couple portraits, allocating around 45-60 minutes for this session. This is your time to relax and enjoy each other’s company while your photographer captures the love and joy of the moment.
The reception has numerous key moments, such as the entrance, speeches, first dance, and cake cutting. Ensure your photographer is prepared to document these events, candid interactions, and special moments with your guests. Plan for roughly 2-3 hours for the main reception events and an additional hour for dancing and candid shots. Coverage of these events adds to the storytelling of your wedding day, so you want these included!
Allow for Flexibility and Communication
Include buffer time in your timeline for any unexpected delays or changes. Flexibility is key to maintaining a stress-free atmosphere on your big day. Adding 10-15 minutes of wiggle room between each major event can help ensure everything stays on track.
Make sure to give your photographer and wedding coordinator your photography timeline well in advance. Good communication will help everything run smoothly on the big day and allow the photographer to focus on capturing all the beautiful moments.
At Keep It Captured Photography, we specialize in effortlessly capturing all your special moments, from engagement to wedding day. We ensure that you can fully immerse yourself in the joy of the occasion while we capture every cherished memory for you.
Please fill out our contact form or call (914)471-7938 to discuss your budget and wedding day photography timeline so we can create a custom package that will fit your exact needs!
Leave a Reply