Planning your wedding day timeline is key to ensuring every special moment is beautifully captured. With an 8-hour wedding photography package, prioritizing key moments will help you make the most of your coverage. Here's a breakdown of how much time photographers typically need for each part of the day, along with tips to maximize your photo coverage!
Getting Ready – 1 to 1.5 hours
Details (dress, rings, invitations, florals) – 15-20 min
Candid moments & prep (hair/makeup, bridal party, groom getting ready) – 30-45 min
Final touch-ups & robe shots – 10-15 min
First Look (if applicable) – 15 to 30 minutes
Private first look moment – 5-10 min
Couple’s portraits – 15-20 min
Bridal Party Photos – 30 to 45 minutes
Group shots (full bridal party) – 10-15 min
Bridesmaids & groomsmen separate – 15-20 min
Fun/candid shots – 10 min
Family Portraits – 20 to 30 minutes
Immediate family (both sides) – 15-20 min
Extended family (if requested) – 10-15 min
Ceremony – 30 to 50 minutes
Guest arrivals & ceremony setup – 15 min
Processional, vows, ring exchange, first kiss – 15-30 min
Recessional & candid guest moments – 5-10 min
Cocktail Hour & Reception Details – 30 to 45 minutes
Guest arrivals & ceremony setup – 15 min
Processional, vows, ring exchange, first kiss – 25-30 min
Recessional & candid guest moments – 5-10 min
Grand Entrance, Toasts & Dinner – 45 minutes to 1 hour
Grand entrance – 5-10 min
Toasts & speeches – 15-30 min
Dinner (candids, reactions) – 5-10 min (This is when I eat too)
First Dance, Parent Dances & Cake Cutting – 30 to 45 minutes
First dance – 5-10 min
Parent dances – 5-10 min
Cake cutting – 10-15 min
Candids of guests dancing – 10-15 min
Open Dance Floor – 30 to 45 minutes
Fun dancing moments, party vibes – 30-45 min
Golden Hour Portraits (if possible) – 15 to 30 minutes
Best light of the day for romantic couple shots
Grand Exit - 15-20 Minutes (Optional)
Guests line up & prepare (sparklers, petals, bubbles, etc.) – 5-10 min
The couple’s exit moment – 5 min
Final hugs & farewell shots – 5 min
