Do you ever wonder how amazing wedding photos are captured? Does everything rely on the photographer’s skills and experience? While these two things are undoubtedly essential for great-looking photos, careful planning is just as important. With this in mind, you should think about having a wedding day photography timeline. Itemizing your entire nuptials in a systematic timeline helps you to keep everything on track on your big day. The key to a successful photo shoot is to be as detailed with this timeline as possible. That being said, here are the perfect time frames to consider as you plan your day.
The Style of Photography
Months before the actual event, you should talk to your photographer and decide what photography style you want to be portrayed. The style you use will affect your overall wedding photography timeline. So, to have a rough estimate of how long the shoots will last and how the shots will look, it’s best to have a chat with your chosen professional.
Backdrops
Backdrops have a huge impact on your wedding photos, so you should let your lensman choose the spots to determine which ones are perfect for lighting and composition. If you are planning on having your family photos shot with a particular backdrop, your photographer should be aware of this beforehand. In essence, they may need to make some adjustments to the lighting gear and may bring in more assistants to help pull it off successfully. A few days in advance should be enough for your photographer to make such arrangements.
Wedding Preparations
When planning your wedding day photography timeline, consider that the photographer will be the first to arrive to ensure that all the details will be captured, including the dresses, hair and makeup, bouquets, rings, and the venue itself. This shoot should be done before the first look (if you have one). It will take roughly 30 minutes and the location can be the Bridal Suite, lobby, or outside the room.
First Look
Not every couple wants to have a first look. This is a session where the couple see each other before the ceremony even takes place. It’s a detour from the tradition to not see each other until the bride walks down the aisle. The first look can help soothe the couples’ nerves and make them feel relaxed before the big moment. It usually takes 45 minutes to complete a first look shot, so, as you plan your wedding day photography timeline, decide whether or not you would like this session.
Ceremony
Part of your wedding photography timeline is a period dedicated to portraits. During the ceremony, your wedding photos should include not just you and your spouse-to-be, but also your parents, the officiant, entourage, and guests. Allot 30-45 minutes for this section.
Reception
A wedding reception usually lasts anywhere from 3-5 hours. Your photographer should take snapshots of the guests, details of the event, cocktails, and food.
Need more tips on creating a wedding day photography timeline? Feel free to reach out because I would love to get to know your story and help plan the wedding photos.
