Your wedding day will fly by, but your photos will last forever. That’s why, in addition to choosing a great photographer, having a well-structured day is key to getting jaw-dropping images. From dreamy golden-hour portraits to candid moments with your loved ones, here’s how to plan your wedding timeline for photography perfection!

1. Start with the Ceremony Time

Your ceremony time is the anchor for your timeline. Once it’s set, work backward and forward to plan everything else. If you’re unsure, consider the time of sunset—this impacts lighting for your portraits and the overall vibe of your photos.

2. Consider a First Look

Doing a first look (seeing each other before the ceremony) is a game-changer for your timeline. It allows a lot more flexibility for portrait times and helps reduce stress by getting some photos done early. Bonus: more time with your spouse because you see them earlier in the day and more time with guests after the ceremony!

3. Allow Buffer Time

Weddings often run late, so build in cushion time for getting ready, travel, and unexpected delays. This ensures you don’t feel rushed, and your photographer has plenty of time to capture each moment beautifully. For example, you may only feel like you need 5 min to get into your dress. After all, you get dressed every day in just a few minutes, right? But if your hair and makeup run a little late, having some buffer time built into the morning will take away some of the stress these delays may cause.

4. Prioritize Candid Moments

Some of the best photos happen when you’re just enjoying your day. Allow time for mingling during cocktail hour and dancing during the reception, so your photographer can capture those genuine smiles and heartfelt laughs.

5. Maximize Golden Hour

Golden hour—the soft, glowing light shortly after sunrise or before sunset—is a photographer’s dream. Schedule some couple’s portraits during this magical time for the most flattering, romantic light. If sunset is at 7:00PM, you’ll want to plan for some portraits around 6:00PM. Of course, it is unlikely to be able to have ALL of your photos taken during this time, but so worth it if you can sneak away from your reception for just a few moments.

6. Communicate with Your Photographer

Share your timeline and priorities with your photographer in advance. They can help you identify the best times and locations for each type of photo to ensure everything runs smoothly.

When you plan your wedding timeline with photography in mind, it ensures every part of your wedding looks as magical in pictures as it feels in real life. Part of all of my wedding collections is a complimentary timeline consultation so we can work together to capture everything that’s important to you on your big day!

Want more wedding planning tips? Keep reading the blog for expert advice!

Venue, decor and florals in this post are the beautiful Etre Farms.