How Much Time Should You Allow for Wedding Photography?
When planning your wedding day timeline, one of the most important (and often overlooked!) pieces is how much time to set aside for photography. As a Seattle wedding photographer, I’ve helped dozens of couples build stress-free timelines that give them space to breathe and capture every magical moment.
In this guide, I’ll break down exactly how much time to allow for each part of your wedding day so you walk away with a gallery full of joyful, genuine memories.
💄 Getting Ready: 60–90 Minutes
Best For: Candid moments, detail shots (rings, dress, shoes, invitation suite), and hair/makeup finishing touches.
To set the tone of the day, I like to start with about an hour to 90 minutes of getting ready coverage. This gives time to capture the anticipation, the laughter with your crew, and all the dreamy flat lay details you’ve worked so hard to curate.
🕊️ First Look + Couple’s Portraits: 30–45 Minutes
Best For: Emotional, uninterrupted couple moments before the ceremony
If you’re planning a first look, carve out 30 to 45 minutes. This is a private moment just for the two of you—often one of the most emotional and grounding parts of the day. It also allows us to capture dreamy couple portraits before the day gets busy.
👨👩👧 Family + Wedding Party Photos: 30–60 Minutes
Best For: Must-have posed family shots and playful bridal party energy
This portion varies based on your family size and wedding party. I always suggest creating a family photo list in advance so we can move efficiently and make sure no one is missed.
💍 Ceremony: 20–60 Minutes
Best For: The emotional core of the day—exchanging vows!
The ceremony time depends on whether it's religious, civil, or somewhere in between. Regardless of length, I cover it in full to capture guest reactions, the ring exchange, and that first kiss magic.
🌇 Golden Hour Portraits: 15–20 Minutes
Best For: Soft, dreamy lighting right before sunset
If time allows, I love pulling couples aside for a few golden hour portraits after the ceremony. The lighting is chef’s kissand the vibe is relaxed—you’ve done the hard part, now it’s time to glow.
🥂 Reception Details + Dancing: 60–90 Minutes
Best For: Capturing your celebration, details, and dancing
Once the party starts, I’ll typically stay for key moments like the grand entrance, toasts, cake cutting, and a solid chunk of dancing. You don’t need hours of dance photos, just enough to show the vibe and joy of the night.
🔁 Sample Wedding Day Photography Timeline (With First Look)
TimeEvent12:00 PMPhotographer arrives (details + getting ready)1:30 PMFirst look + couple portraits2:15 PMWedding party photos3:00 PMFamily portraits4:00 PMCeremony5:00 PMCocktail hour (candid guest shots)6:00 PMReception begins7:45 PMGolden hour portraits9:00 PMPhotographer departs (after dancing)
📷 Final Tips
More time = less stress. Padding in 10–15 minutes throughout the day helps keep things relaxed.
Communicate early. Share your timeline with your photographer and coordinator early in the process.
Prioritize your must-haves. If family portraits are important, give them space. If you love dance floor shots, let's keep me there through the party!
Want Help Planning Your Photography Timeline?
At JL Thomas Photography, I don’t just show up with a camera—I help build your day with intention, ease, and beauty. Let's chat about your wedding vision and build a timeline that flows perfectly.
👉 Contact Me Here