Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to figuring out your photography timeline. One of the most common questions couples ask is, “When should my wedding photographer start?” Let’s break it down together so you can feel confident about your big day.
When Should My Photographer Show Up for My Wedding?
The arrival time of your photographer can significantly impact the overall flow of your wedding day. It’s essential to ensure they have enough time to capture all the beautiful moments, from getting ready to the last dance. Usually you want to have them show up around 15 minutes or so before they actually need to start shooting. Here’s how to plan it out:
A Guide to An Average Wedding Day Timeline
Wedding Timeline Planning: Where Do You Start?
Start with your ceremony time, then work backwards. Knowing when the sun sets on your wedding day is also vital, as this affects your photography lighting. Your ceremony is one of the few things that usually has to happen on time(ish). Other parts of your day are okay if they fall behind.
Wedding Timeline Breakdown
Here’s a simplified breakdown to help you plan:
- Getting Ready: Allocate 1 to 1.5 hours for your photographer to capture you and your partner getting ready. Ideally, you should be dressed and ready at least 30 minutes before you leave for the ceremony. This means if your ceremony starts at 4pm, you would want to be completely ready by 3:30. If you’re doing a first look, give yourself an extra 45 minutes. Your photographer would show up most likely in the middle of the getting ready stage. This way they have time to capture you and your fiance (usually about 1 to 1.5 hours).
- The Ceremony: Budget 45-60 minutes for the ceremony itself, including time for guests to arrive and for post-ceremony moments like confetti and hugs.
- Formal Photos: Allow 20-45 minutes for family photos right after the ceremony. Try to limit these to ten groups for efficiency. If you have a large family or family list, allocate extra time (talk with your photographer)
- Couples and Wedding Party Photos: Set aside 1 to 1.5 hours for these. The earlier in the day, the better, to take advantage of natural light. Doing a first look allows you to get these done prior to the ceremony.
- Reception: Generally, the reception can take about 1.5-3 hours for dinner, plus time for speeches, cake cutting, and dancing as far as photography goes.
Here’s an example timeline:
Getting Ready: 8am – 1pm (Using flexible time’s depending on when and how long it will take you to get ready and how early you want to start)
First Look: 1:30pm
Bridal Party Pictures: 2pm – 3pm
Couples Photos: 3 – 3:30pm
Hideaway/Guests Enter: 3:30pm – 4pm
Ceremony: 4pm – 5pm
Family Pictures: 5pm – 5:45pm
Cocktail hour: 5pm – 6pm
Entrances: 6:15pm
Dinner Service: 6:30pm (Sunset photos somewhere around here)
Toasts: 7pm
First Dances: 7:30pm
Open Dancing: 8pm – midnight
These times can vary as well as order depending on when you get married and any special events you’re doing for your wedding. For example if you’re getting married in late fall, the sun sets pretty early, maybe 5 or 6pm so you may want to find a time around golden hour to set aside for sunset photos. Not doing a first look can also alter your timeline and may require you to do an earlier ceremony. This is because you have to do bridal portraits, bridal party portraits, and family pictures all after the ceremony which can take a lot of time. We also recommend having your toasts during dinner and not before since having them during dinner allows people to stay busy eating while listening to the toasts since dinner does take up a considerable amount of your reception.
FAQs About Wedding Photography
How do I choose the right photography package?
Consider your budget and the amount of time you want your photographer to spend at the wedding. An unlimited package is great for flexibility.
How does Venture Peak Films ensure I get the best photos?
We focus on capturing the genuine moments of your day. Our experience helps us navigate timelines effectively.
Can I request specific shots?
Absolutely! We encourage you to share your must-have shots before the big day.
What if my wedding timeline changes?
No worries! We’re adaptable and can work with you to adjust the timeline as needed.
Planning your wedding photographer’s start time doesn’t have to be stressful. By following this guide, you can create a timeline that works for you and ensures all those special moments are beautifully captured. Happy planning!
We are James & Krista, your photo and video team that you’ll get to have an amazing day with! Venture Peak Films has been in business for over 8 years and captured over 200 weddings so far with no intentions on stopping! Let us know if you have any questions about your wedding and we’re happy to help 🤗