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The single biggest factor in getting great wedding photos is time. Here is how to build a timeline that gives your photographer space to tell your full story.
Start With Sunset and Work Backwards
Look up your sunset time and lock in 45 minutes before it for golden hour portraits. Then schedule backwards from there.
Sample 8-Hour Wedding Timeline
- 11:00 AM — Photographer arrives, detail shots (rings, shoes, flowers, invitation)
- 11:30 AM — Bridal getting ready portraits
- 12:30 PM — Groom and groomsmen portraits
- 1:30 PM — First look (if doing one)
- 2:00 PM — Wedding party portraits
- 3:00 PM — Ceremony begins
- 4:00 PM — Family formals (keep list to 10 groupings maximum)
- 4:45 PM — Cocktail hour, couple portraits begin
- 5:30 PM — Grand entrance and reception begins
- 6:30 PM — Sunset / golden hour portraits (15-20 min escape)
- 7:00 PM — Toasts, cake cutting, first dance
Should You Do a First Look?
A first look — seeing each other before the ceremony — frees up 45-60 minutes that would otherwise be spent on portraits after the ceremony. Most couples who do a first look say it was one of their favorite moments of the day.
How Long Do Family Formals Take?
Plan 3-4 minutes per grouping. If you have 15 groups, that is 45-60 minutes. Keep the list tight — immediate family only during cocktail hour, extended family at the reception.
Alphares Studio sends every couple a detailed timeline template before their wedding day. Book a planning consultation today.
