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The Perfect Wedding Timeline

Throughout the years we have shot a lot weddings, each being unique in its own way. Although every wedding we photograph is vastly different we have found many similarities in each that have allowed us to create a timeline template that works for almost every wedding we shoot. Each couple that works with us will receive their own custom timeline that we create. Even though locations and times are different for each event, in most cases, the events happening are very similar. This has allowed us to create a timeline template that gives every bride and groom a stress-free day, allowing plenty of time for each series of events but still being very efficient with time. Not only does this make your day relaxing and enjoyable, but it also allows us to create stunning images for you and your family.

To see more of our work you can check out our full wedding gallery! Interested in working with us? Send us a message!

GROOM PREPERATION

We start every wedding with groom prep. Both photographers will arrive at the grooms prep location and start photographing the grooms details right away. These details include things like; shoes, watches, cologne, rings, suit and tie, socks, etc… From there we will photograph the groom getting dressed and putting on all those details we just photographed. Once we’re finished, we will head to the bride preparation location.

* Ideal Time Allotment – 60 minutes
* Ideal Time of the Day – Morning
* Ideal Location – Well lit, clean room. Hotel suites work well or a clean, modern home.

* Advice –  The more details the better! Guys never think about this stuff but it will really help build your wedding album story. Things like a nice watch, a unique bowtie, fun socks, etc… all make great memories.

 

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BRIDE PREPERATION

Next stop is the brides prep location. This will be very similar to the groom prep except more things to photograph! Just like the guys we start with the details along with the hair/makeup final touches. Since the girls have way more details then the guys (usually) we request an extra 30mins. This also allows us to get gorgeous shots of the bride in her dress with all those pretty details on.

* Ideal Time Allotment – 90 minutes
* Ideal Time of the Day – Morning or Early Afternoon
* Ideal Location – Bridal Suite or Hotel Suite. The room should be very well lit with natural light such as large windows or doors.

* Advice – Try to stay organized! The girls preparation can get very hectic with all thats going on. There are usually 4+ bridesmaids, multiple hair and makeup artist, parents, other family, and more in the room. Before everyone arrives set aside everything you’re wearing that day in a quiet, clean room. Make sure your dress has the plastic removed and is on a nice hanger ready to be photographed. This way, when it’s time to get dressed all your things are in one room ready to be put on!

To see more of our work you can check out our full portfolio! Interested in working with us? Send us a message!

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FIRST LOOK

The first look should be around 15 minutes. During this time the bride and groom will enjoy seeing each other for the first time on their wedding day. This portion of the day is usually in a private location  (just the bride and groom). We will coordinate the bride and groom so they don’t cross paths before the first look begins. Once ready, the groom will be able to see his future wife for the first time — and what an amazing moment it is!

* Ideal Time Allotment – 15 minutes
* Ideal Time of the Day – Early Afternoon
* Ideal Location – Venue Garden, Empty Venue Hallway (shaded areas with natural light)

* Advice – Take your time and enjoy this moment — these will be some of the best candid pictures of the day!

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WEDDING PARTY PHOTOS

This is a pretty straight forward part of the day but everyone needs to be on time otherwise it will throw off the entire timeline. Be sure to put someone in charge to ensure the wedding party is ready for pictures as soon as the first look is over. It’s usually a good idea for the party to be close by. For example, if your first look is at a park, the bridal party could be waiting in the limo or trolley that way we can grab them as soon as we’re ready.

* Ideal Time Allotment – 15-30 minutes
* Ideal Time of the Day – Immediately following the first look
* Ideal Location – Same location as first look or at the wedding venue

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FORMALS (EXTENDED FAMILY, IMMEDIATE FAMILY, AND FRIENDS)

Formals should take around 30 minutes depending on the size of your family and the number of guests. Plan on 3 minutes per group on average. A few weeks before your wedding we will ask you for a family shot list. This way when the time comes we have a list of names to call out, ensuring no time is wasted and the day can move along smoothly.

*Ideal Time Allotment – 30 minutes

*Ideal Time of the Day – Following Bridal Party/Post Ceremony
*Ideal Location – First look/Ceremony Site

To see more of our work you can check out our full portfolio! Interested in working with us? Send us a message!

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COUPLES SESSION

This is where all the creativity happens and you have some time alone with each other.  The more time we get the better but we usually request at least 60 minutes. During this time we will create a mix of candid and posed photos. These are the images that become large prints for your home and full page spreads in your album. If you you need to cut back on time, it is not recommended this portion of your day suffers.

* Ideal Time Allotment – 60-90min
* Ideal Time of the Day – Before the ceremony
* Ideal Location – First look location or Wedding Venue

* Advice – Let your personalities shine here! Enjoy each other and let us sit back and capture the candid smiles. If needed, we will guide you on where to stand for the best light and how to adjust your body that flatters you the most.

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CEREMONY

This portion of the day is 100% candid and we are there to document what is happening.

* Ideal Time Allotment –30-60 minutes
* Ideal Time of the Day – Early Evening
* Ideal Location – Outside or well lit church

*Advice – If you’re still looking for a church or ceremony site be sure to keep lighting in mind. Many times a dark church will create grainy and unflattering images. Additionally, some churches have strict regulations on the use of flash so we are limited to whatever natural light is available.

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RECEPTION & DETAILS

Once the ceremony is finished both myself and second shooter will head into the venue and setup our lights to prepare for the reception. During this time we will also spend about 30min during cocktail hour to capture all the details you have used to create the ambience of your party. These details include; center pieces, favors, table lines, cake, and much more. Once your reception starts we go into photojournalistic mode and capture all the fun that’s unfolding throughout the night.

* Ideal Time Allotment –2-4 Hours
* Ideal Time of the Day – Evening

* Advice – We always recommend having photography coverage up until the last major event. This could be the cake cutting or parent dances —  we also recommend at least an hour of open floor dancing! Talk to your wedding coordinator and ask what their timeline looks like for the night. This way you can better gage how long you’ll need your photographer there for.

To see more of our work you can check out our full portfolio! Interested in working with us? Send us a message!

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COUPLES SESSION – RECEPTION SNEAK OUT

During the reception plan on sneaking out for a couple of night shots. We only need 20-30 minutes as we understand the importance of being a good host. The ideal time for this is right after you grab a bite to eat or during the open floor dancing.

* Ideal Time Allotment – 20-30 minutes
* Ideal Time of the Day – Dusk to Night Time
* Ideal Location – Areas with interesting lights, cityscapes, open fields

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I hope this timeline helps you plan your dream wedding! If you haven’t already booked your wedding photography please feel free to contact us for more information regarding pricing and packaging. You can also check out our full portfolio as well as our featured blog post!

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