how long to have wedding photographer?
Often times my wedding clients will ask me how much time they should allot for each section of the day so that there's enough time for me as a photographer to capture all of the key moments. Based on my experience, here are a few sample timelines that can act as guideline. As my client, I will also review your wedding schedule and identify any potential gaps.
The timelines below are based on my current wedding packages. I set aside 15 minutes for travel from location to location to allow time for getting venue details, candids, and waiting for key moments.
Ceremony-only (2 hours)
45 min First look, couple's portraits
15 min Travel to Ceremony location
30 min Ceremony
30 min Family/Group Portraits
Half Day (5 hours)
45 min Getting ready/details
15 min Travel to First Look location
45 min First Look/Couple's portraits
30 min Family Portraits
15 min Travel to Ceremony location
1 hour Ceremony
30 min Group portraits
30 min Cocktail Hour/Reception/Venue details
30 min Speech/First Dance
Full day (10 hours)
1 hour Getting Ready
15 min Travel to First Look location
15 min First Look
45 min Couple/Bridal Party Portraits
30 min Family Portraits
15 min Travel to Ceremony location
1 hour Ceremony
45 min Group Portraits
15 min Travel to Reception location
1 hour Cocktail Hour/Venue Details/Sunset portrait*
30 min Reception, entrance
30 min Dinner served**
30 min Speech
15 min First Dance
15 min Cake cutting
2 hour Bouquet toss/Dancing the night away
*Couple can mingle with guests or steal away for a private moment to be together
**Good spot for a photographer break