Hey brides! Awhile back, I shared part 1 of this blog post on having a photography-friendly timeline for the getting ready + details portion of your wedding. Today I’m sharing on having a photography-friendly timeline for the portraits, ceremony, and reception! :) Let’s get started!

Have a first look. If you want the MOST ideal timeline for portraits, a first look is definitely your best option! However, I ALWAYS encourage my couples to do what is right for them. So if you opt to not do a first look and want to have plenty of time for a variety of portraits, you will need at least 90 minutes from the time your ceremony ends to the time your reception starts. In this time period, we have to accomplish most of your portraits, including family formals, bridal party, and bride & groom photos.

Have a family list ready for your photographer, and stick to it. I always ask for one from my couples, and there’s a reason why! Having a list of all the family photos you want to take is vital to finishing family photos as quickly and efficiently as possible. Not only should you be sure to provide this to your photographer, but really think about what photos you want the MOST- and then do your best to try to STICK to it the day of your wedding. If you have a last minute request, it’s not a huge deal! But definitely encourage your family members to not suggest a lot of other combinations. If they want more than the list you provided beforehand, encourage them to let me know during the reception, so I can capture them there and ensure we capture all the ones you truly wanted.

Allot time for little things in your timeline, like receiving lines and bustling your bridal dress. These things don’t seem like they take much time, but most dress bustles take at least 15-20 minutes to do, and receiving lines typically take at least 30 minutes (think about it, you have to say hi to every guest!!). Allotting the right amount of time for these kind of things in your timeline will allow you all to be on the same page and not fall behind the day of! :)

Sneak out for sunset portraits during the reception. Trust me, this will be one of the best decision you’ll make!!! :) About an hour before sunset is the perfect time for sunset portraits, which has that perfect dreamy and glowing lighting! :) They’ll likely be some of your FAVORITE portraits from the whole day!

That’s it, friends!! Hope this mini series helps you to create the perfect timeline for your wedding day.