Not every couple is the same.
Some couples don’t have wedding parties, some want 100% documentary, some want formal group photos with their families.
Below you will find roughly how much time is typically dedicated to each section of the day.
Consider what sort of experience you want on your wedding day.
Build your itinerary off of that.
Timing
If you’re looking for more structure, and a traditional itinerary, consider the traditional option.
If you are wanting a laid back/documentary feel, consider the casual option.
Getting Ready
Typically I show up before you head out; when hair and make-up is done and before you get dressed.
30 minutes - 1 hour
First Look
If you would like to see each other before the ceremony.
10-15 minutes
Couple Portraits
Traditional
Select a specific time of day dedicated to pictures of you two. This is if you want to come away with a lot of photos, and to move at a slow pace.
1 - 1.5 hour
Casual #1
Some aren’t concerned with quantity and would like to have a few simple portraits.
10 minutes - 30 minutes
Casual #2
Take 5 minutes here and there throughout the day to step aside and take portraits. Allows for variation in your photographs (different locations, lighting). We will come away with a decent amount of photos while having a low pressure experience.
Before I leave, I always like to take some last end-of-the-day portraits, once the pressure of the day has subsided.
Wedding Party
Traditional
Select a specific time of day dedicated to pictures with your wedding party. This is if you want to come away with a lot of photos, and to move at a slow pace.
1 hour
Casual #1
Before the ceremony, after the ceremony, during cocktail hour or reception, step aside and take some group photos together.
15-30 minutes
Casual #2
Casual portraits together throughout the day.
Family Portraits
Traditional
Formal group portraits. We discuss beforehand which combinations you would like. Dependent on the amount of combinations and people you have.
15 - 30 minutes
Casual #1
Choose a time of day and location for your family to meet. Share a bottle of champagne, sit, chat, laugh and talk. I will take candid photographs of you all together. In those moments, you can look at the camera and smile. This will give us a combination of candid and formal. Combine this time with your wedding party as well.
15 minutes - 1 hour
You can combine couple portraits / wedding party / family photos into a 1-2.5 hour window.
Cocktail Hour
If you want to spend time with your family and friends during this time, I do not recommend scheduling photos during cocktail hour.
If you want to take a few minutes out of cocktail hour, you can dedicate either couple portraits/wedding party/family portraits during this window.
