My advice is to have Planner or Coordinator for your wedding day. Someone who understand your vibe, style and they always make sure to make sure things run smoothly for you. If you have Planner or coordinator feel free to skip this part!
Having a well-planned timeline and schedule for your special day is incredibly important to ensure everything runs smoothly and stress-free. If you don't have a coordinator or wedding planner, it's essential to collaborate closely with your suppliers and photographers to create a schedule that accommodates everyone's needs.
Remember, time can often slip away faster than we expect, so it's wise to allocate more time than you think you'll need for getting ready. Hair and makeup, in particular, tend to take a little longer than anticipated, and the last thing you want is to feel rushed before the ceremony. Allocating ample time will also give you the opportunity to capture some beautiful and fun bridal portraits. Additionally, consider scheduling extra time later in the day for breath-taking sunset photos of you and your partner. We usually suggest around 20 minutes during the golden light, and if you're up for it, we can also create some artistic night or dusk photos with the unique lighting.
Every wedding is unique in its own way, so there is no fixed timeline that is perfect for every wedding. To give you an idea of how long each section typically takes during a full day (traditional) wedding, we've provided a sample timeline below. This will help you get a sense of the overall flow of the day:
YOUR BIG DAY
Details
2-3 hrs prior to ceremony
While you’re getting glammed up, I love to take some time to capture your rings, jewelry, dress, shoes etc. All these tiny details are an important part of your story, every bride loves looking back at those beautiful shots. This allows me to look around the venue, location, take some reception details (if it’s ready) and warm up for the rest of the day. While I’m at it, I also take this opportunity to capture your bridal party, you getting ready in your bridal robe, maybe even taking time to pop some champagne.
Bride or Groom Prep
1-1:30 hrs prior to ceremony
To make the most of this please allow 1:30hr before you walk out to the aisle. By the time the details are done it’s time for the bride to get into her dress. This is the important moment. We want everyone to look their best so at this point the mother of the bride and all bridesmaids are expected to already be dressed. Then it’s time to capture the bride putting on her jewellery, shoes etc. And if we still have plenty of time I would suggest that we take some bridal portraits.
First look / Pre-ceremony
1 hrs prior to ceremony
Please allow 30 minutes, One of the most exciting moments is when the groom sees his bride in her wedding dress for the first time!...But you can skip straight to the ceremony if you don’t want to do a dress reveal session. 30 minutes before you walk down the aisle. - that emotional moment when the father of the bride sees his daughter in her wedding dress for the first time. I often ask your Maid of Honor to stay alert and have tissues ready in hand to catch those happy tears. At this point I’m likely to head off to be on standby at the ceremony.
Ceremony
Genereally 2pm/3pm, Winter 12pm
Ceremony: It’s time to say I do. The anticipation is over. Your groom and your guests will be overjoyed with anticipation. Most ceremonies last around 35 minutes, so don’t forget to take a moment to soak this all in.
Groups and Formal Portrait
20-30 mins
Right after the ceremony is usually the best time to grab family portraits as all family members will be present. This moment is all about your family and friends group portraits. Generally we recommend a maximum of 10 group shots, to ensure they are quick, fun and don’t interfere with your day. We often recommend having this done outdoors for the sake of better light.
Just married Portrait
30 mins
I often snatch you away to a quiet area for your ‘just married’ portraits. After this it’s likely that you will be heading off to greet your guests and on your way to your wedding reception.
Reception details
10-15 mins
I would recommend that you have a little greeting cocktail hour for your guests outside the main reception area if possible. So I can then get a few snaps of the untouched reception with all the amazing deco.
Break time
I usually try to pop by every now and then to see how things going!
I often take a quick break while everyone has their meal. If it’s possible please let me know in advance when you are scheduled to give speeches and toasts, I will make sure I am present before the fun begins. Speeches are often done before dessert starts.
Extra Portrait (Sunset & Evening)
Depending on sunset time and what you prefer.
Spring / Autumn Winter/ Summer
5:30pm - 7:00pm 2-3pm /7:30-8pm
(depending on sunset time as this varies from summer to winter) : If you are still sober at this point? This is not essential, but as much time as you could give me, just before cake cutting - if you could spare me some time... I will make it worth your while. If it’s possible I would love to capture you both in that golden hour light.
Golden Sunset picture...a summer sunset can quite often happen while you’re sitting down for your meal. If you really love the sunset vibe and don’t mind me disturbing you during your meal, then I’m more than happy to drag you out. So just let us know in advance so we can try and schedule this in for you
Cake & Dance
Details
Let’s cut that beautiful cake, and let the party begin with your first dance. I usually stay till 30 mins just after the first dance.
SAMPLE TIMELINE
When it comes to planning your epic elopement or intimate celebration, it's all about the locations and logistics! Since this is likely to be more intimate celebrating or sometimes just the two of you, you've got the freedom to be as flexible as you want. So, let's talk backdrops and locations that truly speak to your souls. Are you dreaming of a breath-taking beach, a majestic mountain, an adrenaline-filled adventure, or a vibrant city elopement? The choice is yours, and we're here to make it happen!
Now, let's move on to the celebrant who will help bring your intimate "I DO" moment to life. How do you envision celebrating this magical milestone? Picture this: a cozy picnic with bubbly champagne or a beautifully set table for two in a picturesque spot. Oh, and let's not forget about the activities! Want to light a bonfire, pop some more champagne, or take a plunge or a swim in a nearby lake? It's your adventure, and we're here to make it absolutely unforgettable.
If you're feeling adventurous and want to plan your unique journey, we've got your back! We can assist you in finding additional locations and stunning photo spots near your chosen key locations. And hey, depending on the country and specific location, getting a local trusted guide might just be the icing on the cake.
How to plan your timeline?
First - ask yourself what kind of activities you like to includes?
Alright, let's kick things off by brainstorming all the rad activities you want to rock on your wedding or elopement day! We're talking cocktails hour, smoke bombs, champagne pops, bouquet throws, sparkler guessing games, and even fireworks if you're feeling extra epic! Once we have that exciting list, let's make sure to add a sweet 15-20 minutes to each activity.
Now, it's time to get that rough timeline rolling! Let's slide those activities onto the schedule and start mapping out the most incredible day ever. Get ready for an adventure like no other!
Second - ceremony time!
When it comes to timing, let's keep things in mind, especially if you've got a morning ceremony on the agenda. Sometimes those early morning "I do's" can affect your hair and makeup start times. Make sure your stylist is fully aware of the early kick-off so they can be prepared. Now, if you're keen on capturing that fabulous bridal prep, we usually recommend having your hair and makeup done about 1 to 1.5 hours before you need to leave for the ceremony.
Now, here's the deal. If you've got a big bridal party that needs hair and makeup done and they need to be ready by, say, 8 am or 10 am, brace yourself for an early start. I've seen some bridal parties rise and shine as early as 3 am.! But hey, if you're not exactly a morning person, a ceremony around 2 pm or 3 pm might be more your jam. That way, you can have a leisurely and relaxed morning of getting ready. Oh, and in the summertime, have you considered a dreamy twilight wedding starting at 4 pm? The sun sets later, around 10 p.m., so you'll have plenty of magical light to bask in.
Now, for those winter weddings, if you prefer to capture those enchanting photos in natural light, an early ceremony around 11 am /12 pm is the way to go. You see, we have to work with the daylight limitations. But fret not, because no matter the timing, we'll make sure your day is absolutely stunning and filled with joy. So let's plan your perfect schedule and make sure you shine in every moment!
Alright, let's tackle the next question: how much time should we set aside for those awesome portraits?
Now, when it comes to the formal parent portraits, we usually rock them out in about 20 to 30 minutes. But hey, if you're looking to break free from the traditional posed shots and embrace a candid, documentary-style vibe, we've got you covered! This approach allows us to capture those incredible images without interrupting the flow of your wedding day too much.
But hold up, we still want to make sure we carve out some time for those "Just Married" and couple portraits. These shots are all about capturing your pure awesomeness together. As for everything else, we're going to go all-in on candid photography. This relaxed approach means you won't see people constantly staring into the camera. Instead, your guests can fully enjoy the fun, entertainment, and each other's company. They might not even notice we're there capturing those epic moments!
**Don't forget to Factor in Transport!**
When planning your wedding, it is crucial not to overlook the importance of factoring in transportation. This becomes particularly significant if your wedding events are taking place at different locations, spanning from getting ready to the ceremony and finally to the reception. It's essential to consider the travel time between these venues and assess the logistics involved.
Take into account the estimated duration of travel between each location. This will help you create a realistic schedule that allows for a smooth transition from one place to another without feeling rushed or stressed. Additionally, inquire about the availability of parking facilities at each venue. Knowing whether there is ample parking or if alternative arrangements need to be made can save your guests from unnecessary inconveniences.
Equally important is understanding the distance that needs to be covered on foot between venues. Determine if there are any considerable walking distances involved and plan accordingly, especially if you have guests with mobility concerns. Providing clear directions or arranging transportation services, such as shuttles, can greatly enhance guest comfort and overall enjoyment of the day. By considering these transportation factors ahead of time, you can ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for both you and your guests throughout your wedding day.
So get ready to embark on an authentic storytelling adventure. We'll weave together each magical moment as it unfolds, creating a visual narrative that truly reflects your love and joy. Let's create some mind-blowing memories together!
Winter
Where daylight is limited
We do love festive and winter wonderland weddings. Winter weddings require a little extra planning as there is limited daylight with sunset time usually around 3-4pm so portrait is best at 2-3pm. Plan to have an early ceremony no later than 1pm if you prefer to be photograph in natural light. That way we will have time for a wedding portrait before the light disappears.
Summer
Where light last until 10pm
Daylight is such a bliss and it is tempting to have outdoor ceremonies but please bear in mind to choose some shady area for the ceremony, or supply some umbrellas and fans as summer can be quite hot and sweaty and also your guests don’t want to catch sunburn or heat stroke during the ceremony! Also if it’s too bright you both might end up squinting all the way through your ceremony. Golden hour is usually around 8pm.
Spring
When the exquisite blooms start
Slightly warmer temperatures for weddings with a lovely cool breeze, but watch out for rain and allergies. So it’s great to be prepared, a lovely clear of pure white umbrella is a must. The magic of spring makes it worth all the trouble - catching the blossom in full bloom and the results are often exquisite.
Golden hour is usually around 4-5pm.
Autumn
When fall magic thrive
Fall leaves have their own unique charm; warm shades of autumn leaves often brighten up autumn weddings like no other. Daylight in fall varies from year to year, so I’m more than happy to discuss your portrait time nearer to your wedding. Golden hour is around 5-6pm.
1. Make yourself a check list!
2. Time is your BFF
3. Divide important
task to your besties!
If it’s important, it should be on your check list!
This step is particularly important if you are getting hitched abroad or if your venue is further from home, which may require you and your party to stay at the accommodation the night before your wedding. You can create your check list way in advance so just slowly add important notes on to your check list.
Make sure to create a realistic timeline that gives you plenty of wiggle room. Trust us, it'll save you from any last-minute stress and allow you to enjoy each magical moment.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help!
Your besties have been through thick and thin with you so there is no need to be shy. You naturally have so much on your mind already, designating a few important task to your besties will really help you feel at ease on the day. This is so important if you don’t have a coordinator/planner or event manager to help you on your big day. Teamwork makes the dream work: Gather your squad and assign them specific roles. Whether it's your bestie organizing the guestbook or your cousin handling the playlist, delegating tasks will lighten the load and ensure everything runs like a well-oiled machine.
I have a lot of experience working to tight schedules and understand how to keep things relaxed and enjoyable for you. The timelines here are just to give you an idea of what the day will look like from a photography perspective.
We hope this sample timeline gives you a helpful starting point in planning your wedding day. Remember, our goal as photographers is to work around the schedule and let the day flow naturally as it's planned. We're here to capture all the beautiful moments and create lasting memories for you to cherish.
Example timeline summary Spring wedding with ceremony at 2pm, Sunset at 8:30pm. (10 hrs coverage)
Getting ready (where ceremony take place)
11:30am
12:00pm
12:30pm
13:00pm
Us arrive to capture: Location, Details, Venue (30 mins)
Bridal / Partner 1’s Prep
(Bridal party in bath rope, Hair & Makeup)
Getting in your Dress/outfit & Bridal portrait
First Look or Pre ceremony (10mins - 30 mins)
(Dress reveal with bridesmaid/ or with Parent moment)
If groom/partner 2 getting ready at the same venue and like some photos we can shoot both parties. Alternatively (If you have second photographer they will be with the groom/ partner 2 from 12pm)
Ceremony
13:20pm
14:00pm
14:30pm
15:00pm
Us capture: ceremony room and guests arrived
Ceremony (30mins - 45mins, depends)
Confetti & Family portrait (30mins)
Couple “Just marridge” Portrait (15-25mins)
Cocktails hour, snacks & canapes
Reception
16:30pm
18:00pm
19:00pm
19:30pm
19:45pm
20:30pm
21:30pm
Grand Entrance & Meal time
Speeches
Sunset & Extra Portrait
Cake cut
Fisrt Dance (Party kick start, Some Flash portrait )
Sparkler / Firework etc
Photographer finish
This is dependent on the time of year, We can check sunset time for you so you can have a better plan for sunset photos.
Typically I like doing them 30 mins before sunset. If you’re getting married in the winter or somewhere where the sun is setting before dinner, let’s chat about splitting your portrait time differently.
If the activities goes on longer than this and there are fireworks or an exit, more time may be needed. Alternatively you can also move some activity forward to fit the timeline.
UK
Month
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
This is a rough sunset estimated time throught out the year. If you have a date set already please let me know. I will be able to look into sunset time in that particular day for you. We on London time zone.
Sunset
16:00pm - 16:50pm
16:50pm - 17:40pm
17:40pm - 19:30pm
19:30pm - 20:20pm
20:20pm - 21:00pm
21:00pm - 21:20pm
21:20pm - 20:50pm
20:50pm - 19:50pm
19:50pm - 18:40pm
18:40pm - 16:30pm
16:30pm - 15:55pm
15:55pm - 16:00pm
Golden hour
15:00pm /16:00pm
16:00pm /16:50pm
16:30pm /18:30pm
18:30pm /19:30pm
19:30pm /20:00pm
20:00pm /21:20pm
20:20pm /19:50pm
19:50pm /18:50pm
18:50pm /17:40pm
17:40pm /15:30pm
15:30pm /15:00pm
15:00pm
Beginning >>> the end of the month
Golden hour is normally 1 hour before the sun set, where the sky turn ripe and gold in colour. Please be aware that sunset photo is also weather depend, if it’s cloudy or if it’s rain you might not see the Sunset as such. So it’s always good to have plan B, which we can discuss further and make the most out what what ever the weather bring.
Creative and skyline photos
Picture this: a pastel-colored sky that goes down like a boss, about 15 to 20 minutes before the actual sunset or at the crack of dawn for all you early birds out there. Now, even though it's a small window of opportunity, this sky is pure magic! It gives us the chance to unleash our creative vibes and capture some jaw-dropping shots, like beautiful silhouettes. Sure, it may take us 5 to 10 minutes to set up the perfect lighting and all that jazz, but trust me, the results are absolutely mind-blowing.
These photos are taken during the epic moments when the sky is ripping with colors right before dusk. So, what do you think? Are you down to add this incredible experience to your day? Let us know, 'cause we're all about making your dreams come true!
Oh, and just a heads up: during the summertime, when the daylight hours are longer and the sunset is chilling' around 9 pm or 10 pm, you might want to consider starting your ceremony a bit later or extending the hours. Why, you ask? 'Cause we want to make sure you have all the time you need for sparklers, fireworks, and all that sparkly goodness!
Let's rock this day with some epic sky moments!
Why lighting is so important?
Understand light....
Listen up, folks! When it comes to photography, lighting is the absolute game-changer, no matter where you're saying "I do." Let's talk about lighting and locations during your wedding day, the unsung heroes of the planning process. We all adore that sweet natural light, but hey, we can't control the sun, can we? If only we had an "on and off" switch for natural light! Most photographers would actually dig a cloudy overcast day over a crazy bright sunny one. But fear not, because whatever the weather brings, rest assured you're in capable hands.
Even in those darker venues, I've got mad skills to create something that will blow your mind. If you would like to I can help drop some suggestions about the best ceremony time and ideal outdoor locations to set you up for success. You see, I like to do my homework. I research sun direction and when possible scope out your venue ahead of time. I always arrive early so I can take a good look around, scouting out awesome spots for family portraits, couple photos, epic sunset sessions, and all the other fun activities you've got planned.
Now, if you have a special place in mind, hit me up before your big day so I can assess if it's a solid fit for different types of weather, lighting conditions, and if it'll jive with your timeline. We're all about making sure every moment is picture-perfect, rain or shine!
So trust the process, and get ready for some incredible shots that'll make your heart skip a beat. We're in this together!
Important question worth considering...
For DURING the wedding (ceremony & reception) there are a few questions worth asking before you make any final decisions that will vastly improve the quality of your images and how they feel.
If you’re holding an outdoor ceremony
Hey, let's dive into some crucial questions to ensure your wedding images are top-notch and filled with amazing vibes!
Now, if you're planning an outdoor ceremony, there are a few things we need to consider /worth asking before you make any final decisions that will vastly improve the quality of your images and how they feel.
First up, what's the lighting going to be like during your ceremony? If it's a sunny day, we might want to think about setting up in a shady spot if that's available, so you both can stay cool and comfortable. Your venue will be able to assist you with this.
Here's the deal: we don't want one of you squinting in the blinding sunlight while the other is chilling in the shade. Trust me, I've seen it happen way too many times.
So, how can we fix this?
Option 1: Find a shady area for the ceremony.
Option 2: Face away from the sun, with the celebrant blocking that intense glare.
Option 3: Rock the sunglasses look (although it might not capture all the emotional moments, just saying).
It's best if both of you can be positioned in the same lighting conditions. This is where you can talk to your event organizer or venue to make sure you're both in the shade or both basking in the sun. You might even want to scope out the light situation before the big day or do a little research to see what to expect. We can adjust the ceremony set-up, tilt it slightly, or move you guys into the shade so you don't have to squint into the sun.
Oh, and here's another thing to consider: will there be anything above or behind you? Like a cool gazebo, an arch, or a fabulous stage? These elements can create some shadows if you are not careful. So let's plan it all out!
Space
Below is a sample of the traditional ceremony setup
Let's talk about space, shall we?
Is there enough space for your photographer to walk around the perimeter of the ceremony space?
Honestly we don't expect that every venue we visit have acre of space, as this is not often the case. We want to make sure your photographer can rock and roll around the ceremony area. Ideally, we need a 360-degree walking space. But hey, no worries if that's not possible. Just make sure there's some room for us to roam and work our magic.
Space behind your celebrant/ or space between the celebrant and the front roll seat, We need some space behind your celebrant or between them and the front row. That way, we can capture those breathtaking moments as you walk down the aisle.
Oh, and we definitely need some space behind you too. This allows us to capture both your beautiful faces as those heartfelt vows are exchanged.
And if it's doable, having some walking space along the outside of the aisle would be fantastic. We don't want to be stuck in one spot the entire ceremony. This way, we can move around and capture incredible shots without causing a ruckus.
The more space we have, the more diverse and captivating your final images will be. So let's make sure we have the freedom to snap from various angles and perspectives.
If you’re holding an indoor ceremony:
Alright, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of your indoor ceremony, and let's make it fun!
First things first, what's the lighting situation? Are we talking natural light or all about that ambient/artificial glow? If it's all artificial, no worries, we can jazz things up! Do you plan on sprinkle some hanging lights, light up candles, or add in spotlights to amp up the atmosphere and make those photos pop?
Now, if you're tying the knot in a church, we need to know the photography restrictions. Some churches can be a bit camera-shy, restricting photographers from venturing beyond the last pew or even daring to "cross the aisle." Do we have the freedom to flash our cameras and work our magic? Let us know what your venue/church rules are, and we'll plan accordingly to capture all those special moments without breaking any rules!
It's all about creating a vibrant, unforgettable experience, so let's get creative with the lighting and dance around any restrictions.
Plan-B (Wet weather)
So what do we do if it’s raining? Weather is something we don’t have control over, so let’s make the most of it. An overcast sky can be beautiful, the dark clouds create an interesting and dramatic feel to your images. Even though we might not spend most of the time outdoors, it can be lovely to have some shots taken outside. If the rain is not too extreme we can still have some wonderful images in the rain. If you don’t mind getting a little wet of course, just be sure to have an umbrella in hand.
Ready to weatherproof your big day and make it absolutely epic? Here's the ultimate game plan:
-
Arm yourselves with stylish umbrellas – rain or shine, you'll be covered in style.
-
Have some indoor spaces or stunning backdrops ready for those Insta-worthy moments.
-
Bring in a marque or shelter for the ceremony and drinks reception – bonus shade on sunny days!
-
Embrace the elements – be ready to strut your stuff outside!
-
Pack a spare pair of shoes or rock some fancy wellies for dry, happy feet.
-
Give your guests a heads up for sensible shoes, alongside those killer heels – no sinking Susans allowed!
-
Keep everyone in the loop about any wet-weather changes to the plan.
-
Ensure your venue or coordinator has a top-notch wet weather strategy – know the drill!
-
Check if confetti indoors is an option when the weather's being moody.
-
Explore indoor photography backdrops that scream chic elegance.
-
Confirm there's enough space inside to host all your guests comfortably.
-
Consult your venue on weather-ready transport – don't let muddy roads rain on your parade!
Rain or shine, your wedding day will be a blockbuster! ☔🌟👰♀️
**Please make sure to inform your guests to bring an Umbrella with them, this is essential for those whose would like portraits outside or outdoor ceremony!
Entertainment
Alright, let's get this party started! Planning your wedding entertainment is an absolute game-changer, and let me tell you why. Not only does it amp up the fun factor, but it also has a direct impact on your wedding photo outcome. So buckle up and let's dive into the details!
We've got the cocktail hour. Picture this: your guests mingling, sipping on delicious drinks, and nibbling on tasty canapés. Now, add in some killer entertainment! Whether it's a live band jamming to upbeat tunes or a DJ spinning the hottest tracks, this lively atmosphere sets the stage for some seriously amazing candid photos. Those candid shots capture the laughter, the joy, and the unforgettable moments that make your wedding truly unique.
But wait, there's more! Let's take it outdoors with some garden games. Imagine giant Jenga, a friendly game of cornhole, or even a competitive round of ring toss. Not only will your guests have a blast, but these games provide fantastic photo opportunities. Just imagine the hilarious expressions, the intense concentration, and the pure joy captured in those shots. It's all about creating memories that will make you smile for years to come.
And while we're at it, let's not forget about the music while waiting for group photos. A lively playlist pumping in the background keeps everyone in high spirits and prevents any boredom from creeping in. Trust me, happy and entertained guests make for incredible group photos. The energy and excitement will shine through, creating dynamic and vibrant images that truly reflect the joy of your special day.
So when it comes to wedding entertainment, it's all about injecting that extra dose of fun, excitement, and playfulness. From the cocktail hour to the garden games and the music in between, let's make sure your wedding photos are filled with laughter, candid moments, and memories that will make your heart skip a beat. Let the good times roll!
Reception space
What lighting are you providing during dinner? Hanging lights? Candles?
All of these impact mood AND photos. Would you be comfortable with flash during speech to help us get clearer images?
Or do you prefer a beautiful atmosphere but candlelight & hanging lights, and lots of fairy lights? This would definitely help create intimacy and warmth, but they are not quite powerful enough for me to get clear images so your images might be more grainy and on the darker side. Just let me know what it is you prefer.
I can work with all kind of lighting but just so you understand the different and impact on how each type of light effect in the final result and what to expect.
Where is the head table and what is behind you? I.e. is it a full set of speakers, a catering table, or is it a nice clean background? When people stand for speeches, will they be near you or standing at their seats? Closer is better for the reactions
Done with planning what's next??...
If you have added Couple shoot to your wedding package. This will help you prep yourself prior to our fun couple shoot session. From locations to wardrobe ideas.