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Make Your Wedding Day Picture Perfect: Timeline Tips from Your Photographer

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Ah, the big day is almost here! You’ve picked out the dress, chosen the playlist, and practiced your vows in front of the mirror (probably tearing up a little… it’s okay, same). But let’s talk about the part that can make or break how your wedding day feels: the timeline. A smooth timeline means less stress, more fun, and picture-perfect photos you’ll cherish forever. So, let’s dive into some practical (and a little funny-but-true) tips to help you plan the best day ever!


bride and groom share a quick prayer before their ceremony to become husband and wife
Sharing a moment before their BIG moment

1. Start and Stay in One Place

Ever feel like you’re in a marathon when you have to zip around town all day? Don’t do that to yourself on your wedding day! Keeping everything—getting ready, ceremony, and reception—at one location saves time, energy, and sanity. Bonus points if it cuts down on the chance of someone (or something) being forgotten in the rush. Less travel time means more time for photos, champagne, and soaking in all the love.

2. Plan Together, Trust the Plan & Your Wedding Photographer

Here’s the thing: I’ve done this wedding photography thing a lot. Trust me when I say that we’ll craft a timeline that works like a charm. Once it’s set, roll with it! No need to micromanage or stress over every minute. Following the plan means you can relax, enjoy the day, and leave the logistics to the pros (that’s me!).


3. Give Yourself Extra Time

Wedding days are like a time warp—everything takes longer than you think it will. Build in at least 10–15 extra minutes for every major part of your day, from getting dressed to traveling between locations. Hair and makeup running behind? No big deal; you’ve got buffer time. If everything stays on schedule (miracles do happen!), you’ll have a few precious minutes to breathe, grab a snack, or take an extra selfie.

Bride and Mom share a first look with her twin boys
Mama Bride shares a First Look with her twin boys

4. First Look Meets Family

First looks aren’t just for you and your partner anymore. Why not share that magical moment with your parents, children, or bridal party? Watching their reactions will tug at your heartstrings (and make for some truly unforgettable photos). It’s also a sweet way to spend a little extra time with your VIPs before the ceremony kicks off.

5. Details, Please!

Want your detail photos to look like something out of a bridal magazine? Have your rings, invitation suite, bouquet, shoes, and other special items ready to go when your wedding photographer arrives. It saves time and ensures they capture every gorgeous detail. Pro tip: Ask your florist for a few extra blooms or greenery to elevate those flat lays. Trust me, your Instagram feed will thank you.


6. Golden Hour is Non-Negotiable

Let’s talk about golden hour—that dreamy, glowy light right before sunset. It’s the secret sauce for romantic, ethereal photos that look straight out of a fairy tale. You should carve out 30 minutes during this time for your couple’s portraits. Trust me, it’s worth sneaking away from the party for these stunning shots.


Golden Hour bridal portraits on a lake
Golden Hour Bridal Portraits

7. Designate a Family Photo Helper

Family portraits can get a little chaotic—“Wait, where’s Aunt Linda?” Solve this by picking a family member or close friend who knows everyone to help gather the group. (Your hired wedding planner probably doesn't know all of the faces with the names, which is why choosing a personal friend or family is really helpful) This keeps things moving smoothly and lets me focus on snapping photos, not chasing down Uncle Bob. Plus, it keeps me from bugging you and your partner, which means less stress for all of us.

8. Be Present and Sneak Away

Your wedding day is about celebrating love, not worrying about the perfect pose. The best photos happen when you’re truly present, so laugh, dance, and soak up the joy. Bonus tip: Sneak away for 10–15 minutes after the ceremony, maybe sign your documents? I’ll capture a few candid, romantic moments then let you two just breathe and take it all in. Trust me, you won’t regret it.


Husband & Wife cutting their wedding cake
Cutting of the cake in a warmly lit reception area

9. Let’s Skip the Disco Lights (for Now)

Reception lighting can make or break your photos. For key moments like your first dance or speeches, let’s keep those disco lights off. Clean, natural lighting will make your photos look timeless and gorgeous. Don’t worry, the party vibes can come back in full swing once the dance floor is open—disco lights included!




10. Have Fun with Your Portraits

Stiff, formal poses? Not on my watch. Let’s make your couple’s portraits fun and relaxed. I’ll guide you into flattering setups, but the magic happens when you’re laughing, being playful, and letting your personalities shine. These are the moments that feel real and make your photos uniquely yours.


Groom running away with his Bride over his shoulder
Husband and Wife are ready to have a good time at their reception

Let’s Keep the Magic Going-Time to Book Your Wedding Photographer!

Planning your wedding timeline doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a little extra thought and some help from your photographer (hi, that’s me!), your day will be as stress-free and joyful as you’ve dreamed.


I’ve put all these tips into a handy, downloadable PDF so you can have them ready when it’s time to finalize your timeline. Want a copy? Just shoot me an email or DM me on Instagram, and I’ll send it your way!

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