Every wedding day looks a little different, and that is exactly how it should be.
This guide is here to help you plan a day that feels like you.
Wedding Scheduling Guide
If you’re planning to create your own wedding day schedule, here are a few things to keep in mind:
I usually recommend starting my coverage about an hour before you are ready to get dressed. This gives time to photograph the outfit, small details, and the relationships around you (though this is not a strict rule, since every wedding day looks a little different)
Keep the day relaxed by building in 10 to 15 minutes of buffer time around key parts of the schedule, like traveling between locations or starting group photos. Travel often takes longer than expected, especially with a larger group, during busy traffic times, or if parking is tricky
I typically suggest setting aside about 1.5 - 2 hours for wedding party and couple portraits
If possible, carve out 15 to 30 minutes for a sunset session. These almost always end up being some of the most favourite images from the day
If you have hired a videographer, they may need some extra time alongside the photos. It is a good idea to check with them ahead of time so we can plan everything smoothly
Below are two example schedules to help get you started. One is more traditional, and one is a little more flexible.
Feel free to mix and match or create your own version.
Traditional Schedule
12:00 - Photographer arrives for morning prep
1:00 - Getting dressed, first look with parent(s) wedding party
1:30 - Arrive at Ceremony location
2:00 - Ceremony
2:30 - Family Photos
3:00 - Wedding Party Photos
4:00 - Couple Photos
5:00 - Arrive reception location
5:30 - Reception | Grand Entrance & Dinner
6:30 - Speeches
7:15 - First dance and parent dances
7:45 - Sunset Session (Sunset varies on the day)
8:00 - After Party
9:45 - Sparkler Exit
10:00 - (Photographer end)
Non-Traditional Schedule
12:00 - Photographer arrives for morning prep
1:00 - Getting dressed, first look with parent(s) or wedding party
1:30 - First look & couple photos
2:30 - Wedding Party Photos
3:30 - Arrive at Ceremony + Reception Location
3:45 - Family photos
4:30 - Ceremony
5:00 - Grand exit (flower petals, rice, bubbles, or confetti)
5:30 - Reception Entrance & Dinner
6:30 - Speeches
7:00 - Sunset Session (Sunset varies on the day)
7:30 - First dance and parent dances
8:00 - After Party
9:45 - Sparkler Exit
10:00 - Photographer end
Over the years I have seen so many different takes on the wedding day schedule.
Instead of doing a first look, some couples choose to meet while blindfolded, or stand back to back with a door between them so they can talk without seeing each other.
I have photographed weddings with a morning ceremony and a brunch reception, followed by photos later in the evening at a unique location.
Some couples choose to do all their portraits after the ceremony, where guests only wait about an hour while we take photos nearby.
At the end of the day, remember this is your wedding. Not a photoshoot
Plan it in a way that feels right for you.
