Properly preparing for wedding photos is the key to ensuring a smooth and stress-free day. In this timeline example, we explore how to create the best possible flow for a 9-hour on-site ceremony with a first look. By saying yes to a first look, you open up more opportunities for capturing all of the photos you have been dreaming of.
This timeline includes traveling a maximum of 20-25 minutes from your getting-ready space to your venue or photo location. By keeping your travel distances short, you can maintain a nice, relaxed pace without feeling super rushed or stressed throughout the day.
Our most significant advice for those planning a wedding day is for our couples to travel in separate cars/limos to the first look location. This helps maintain an element of surprise for the first look, allowing for genuine reactions and emotions to be captured by the photography team.
In this timeline, the day can begin with individual preparation shots, where two separate photographers can capture moments with both parties getting ready (keep in mind all of our collections include 2 photographers for this very reason). Following this, it is ideal to schedule the first look session at a picturesque location nearby or even, ideally, at your venue. This will allow tons of additional time for our couple to share intimate moments while ensuring enough time for travel.
Next on your timeline should be wedding party photos (bridesmaids/groomsmen/bride’s men/groom’s women, etc.). We recommend these photos be taken at the same location as your first look. This way, we can maximize efficiency and make the best use of your time. This also ensures your wedding photography stays quick, easy, and, most importantly, FUN!
After capturing those special first-look moments and fun memories with your friends, moving on to family formal portraits at or near the ceremony site is the most practical use of your time. This ensures that immediate family members won’t have to arrive too early and are present and available for photos before they disperse throughout the venue.
As you approach your ceremony time, it is essential to allow some buffer time in case any unexpected delays occur during travel or photo sessions. This guarantees that everyone arrives promptly at their designated locations without feeling rushed or anxious. We want to avoid having to RUN from the photo location to the ceremony site and immediately be thrown into lining up to walk down the aisle. We want you to have time to breathe, exhale, and get excited for your next adventure!! We also love the idea that you and your soon-to-be husband or wife get some extra quality time together to prepare for the ceremony.
During the ceremony, your photography team will capture all those precious moments – from exchanging vows to ring exchanges and everything in between. It’s important to communicate any specific shots or angles you desire beforehand so that nothing is missed.
Following the ceremony, we will take advantage of nearby locations for some “just married” romantic portraits. This will add variety to your photo collection. These images typically take only 5-10 minutes and can perfectly capture the warm, romantic golden hour lighting. You can schedule this session while your guests enjoy cocktail hour or transition to the reception area. Your photographer will also take advantage of cocktail hour to capture the details of your reception and showcase the beautiful features of your venue and ballroom.
Lastly, throughout the reception, your photographer will capture formal introductions, dances, speeches, candid moments, cake cutting, and all evening highlights. By working with us to design your wedding photo timeline, you can ensure that your love story is beautifully captured while maintaining a relaxed and stress-free atmosphere.
Remember, this is just an example timeline and will be adjusted based on your preferences and needs. Communication with your Limelight planner is key to ensuring that the photography team understands your vision and can help create a personalized schedule that suits you best.
