How to Create a Wedding Timeline for Better Photos

Your wedding timeline dictates the flow of your day, but it also dictates the quality of your photos. Rushed couples look stressed in photos. Relaxed couples look radiant. Here is how to build a timeline that photographers love.

1. The "Golden Hour" Buffer

Sunset is the most magical time for photos. Check what time the sun sets on your date and leave a 20-minute gap in your schedule about an hour before that.

• Why: The light is soft, golden, and flattering. No harsh shadows!

2. Getting Ready

Allow 50% more time than you think you need. If hair and makeup run late (and they often do), it eats into your portrait time.

• Tip: Have your photographer arrive 1 hour before you put your dress on to capture the details.

3. Family Photos

This is the most stressful part of the day.

• The Fix: Make a list. Give it to a loud groomsman. Tell everyone to stay put after the ceremony. Allocate 3-4 minutes per group shot. Keep the list short (max 10 groups).

4. Couple Portraits

You don't need to disappear for an hour.

• The Fix: Do two 15-minute sessions. One after the ceremony, and one at sunset. It keeps things fresh and you don't miss your own party.

5. Eating

Photographers are human. They need to eat too!

• The Rule: Feed your photographer at the same time you eat. If they eat last, they will still be eating when the speeches start, and they will miss the shots.

A good timeline is the secret to a relaxed wedding. Need help finding a photographer who can manage the flow? Browse our directory.