Production Timeline
First Look, One Location
This timeline is based on a sunset at 7 PM, but you can adjust it according to the sunset time on your date! The bride and groom are not always involved in every part of the production, but the timeline below highlights the most important moments we need to capture.
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If you're considering having two photographers, don't want a first look, have multiple locations like a church, or are planning a traditional wedding such as Armenian, Nigerian, Indian, Chinese, etc., we offer a complimentary 15-minute, no-obligation call. In this short session, we can develop the perfect production timeline tailored just for you!
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1:30PM
Photographers Arrival Time
2:00PM
Accessories & Dress
2:30PM
Pre-Getting Ready
3:00PM
Groom Getting Ready
3:30PM
Bride Getting Ready
4:00PM
First Look & Portraits
4:30PM
Wedding Party
5:00PM
Ceremony Details & Set Up
5:30PM
Ceremony
6:00PM
Cocktail Hour
7:00PM
Grand Entrance
7:15PM
Dinner
7:45PM
Toasts
8:00PM
Guest Photos
8:30PM
Spotlight Dances & Dance Break
9:15PM
Cake & Toss
9:30PM
Open Dance
9:45PM
Equipment Break Down
10:00PM
Photography Concludes
We include the photographers' 15-minute arrival time as part of the job. This time covers arrival, setting up equipment, and serves as a short buffer in case of traffic
The photographer started 30 minutes before makeup and hair were finished for everyone, capturing details like dress layouts and preparing the location for the next set of photos
Photographer concentrates on the final makeup touch-ups, hanging out with the bridesmaids, taking robe photos, and, of course, capturing shots of the dress
No photos are taken during the actual moment of putting on the dress; Groom Getting Ready.
Photos of the bride getting ready include moments with her parents, siblings, maid of honor, and bridesmaids helping her get dressed, followed by some solo bride portraits. Similar photos are taken for the groom
The First Look takes approximately 5–10 minutes, with the remaining time dedicated to bride and groom portraits. Not interested in a First Look or portraits on the wedding day? Schedule an After-Wedding Photo Session instead!
Ladies first, then gentlemen, followed by group photos of the entire wedding party (wedding party photos will not be taken if a first look was not scheduled)
Here, the photographer uses a 15-minute break for preparation and to capture details, possibly including random guest photos, before the ceremony starts
Most ceremonies last 15-20 minutes; however, there might be delays in the start time, or the remaining time can be used for family photos
During the cocktail hour, there will be a 15-30 minute family photo session, reception details and candid photos of guests. An optional second round of bride and groom portraits (sunset photos) can also be included
Sunset time. The bride and groom will receive the most attention at this moment, so make it spectacular!
A 30-minute break for a full meal, providing everyone, including the bride, groom, and photographers, with a chance to eat and rest.
We believe 15 minutes is the ideal time for speeches, but many couples prefer 20-30 minutes
Unless it's a cultural tradition to go 'table by table,' which can take an hour, we recommend setting up a spot and bringing guests to the bride and groom for better photos. The 'In & Out' game or a 'table dash' are also options here
Father-daughter, mother-son, anniversary, or money dances are perfect for warming up the dance floor. Alternatively, you can skip the dance break (30 minutes)
A perfect moment for a short 15-minute break from dancing, and it's also about the time for dessert!
Dance until the end of the night! This time, the photographer can use for additional dance photos, extra portraits, or a faux 'grand exit' if needed
While the videographer needs about 30 minutes to fully break down, the photographer only needs 15 minutes
If you plan to do a real 'Grand Exit,' it will add extra time. Otherwise, while the party continues, the formal part is done, and after a long and emotional day, it’s time to drive back home :)