5 Wedding Day Timeline Tips From a Photographer’s Perspective

As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen it all—from the smooth, effortlessly flowing wedding days to the slightly more chaotic ones. One of the biggest contributors to a stress-free, beautifully captured day is a well-planned timeline. If you're in the midst of planning your big day, here are my top 5 timeline tips to help make the most of every moment (and every photo!).

1. Start With the Ceremony Time and Work Backwards

Your ceremony time is the anchor of your day. Once that’s set, everything else—getting ready, portraits, first look, travel—can be scheduled around it. Working backwards from the ceremony ensures that you’re not rushing and have enough time for all the important moments before you say “I do.”

2. Plan More Time Than You Think for Getting Ready

Hair and makeup often take longer than expected. Give yourself buffer time so you can relax, enjoy the moment, and maybe pop a bottle of bubbly with your bridal party. It also allows time for me to capture the details—your dress, rings, shoes, and all those special candid moments.

3. Consider a First Look

A first look doesn’t have to be with your partner—it can be with someone just as special. A first look with your dad, mum, or bridesmaids is a beautiful way to share an emotional moment before the ceremony. These moments often become some of the most touching photos of the day, filled with surprise, happy tears, and genuine reactions that you’ll cherish forever. 

4. Golden Hour is Your Best Friend

That dreamy, golden sunlight just before sunset? It makes for the most magical photos. Try to plan 15–20 minutes during golden hour for couple portraits—you won’t regret it. I always help couples find the best time based on the season and venue.

5. Build in Breathing Space

Weddings are full of surprises—traffic delays, missing buttonholes, or a tearful speech that runs long. Buffer time in your schedule helps you stay calm and enjoy the day, even if things don’t go exactly to plan. And trust me, relaxed couples make for the best photos.

Final Thoughts

Your wedding day should be joyful, not rushed. With a thoughtful timeline (and a photographer who’s got your back!), you can soak in every beautiful moment. If you’re not sure how to structure your day, I’m always happy to help my couples build a photography-friendly timeline.

Let’s make magic happen—stress-free and full of love!