The Ultimate Timeline for your 2025 Wedding Day

Natalia and Justin were married at the Bellevue Mansion in Wilmington, Delaware

A well-structured wedding photography timeline is essential for ensuring you capture all the special moments while keeping everything on track. As a wedding photographer, it’s important for me to work closely with my couple and their wedding planner to plan the timing of each moment. Below is a detailed wedding day photography timeline to guide us through the key events and when to expect certain photos.

Here’s a wedding photography timeline for a 12–8 PM coverage window, with a 4 PM ceremony start time:

12:00 PM – Photographer Arrives

    •    Detail shots: dress, shoes, rings, stationery, bouquet, etc.

    •    Candid moments of the bridal party getting ready.

12:30 PM – Getting Ready Photos

    •    Bride getting dressed

    •    Groom getting ready (if nearby, covered by a second photographer or during transitions).

    •    Candid group shots with the bridal party.

1:00 PM – First Look & Couple’s Portraits

    •    First look in a scenic/private location.

    •    Bride and groom portraits.

1:30 PM – Wedding Party Photos

    •    Group photos with bridesmaids, groomsmen, and entire wedding party.

2:30 PM – Immediate Family Portraits

    •    Photos with parents, siblings, and close family members.

3:15 PM – Touch-ups & Break

    •    Couple relaxes before the ceremony.

    •    Photographer captures venue details and guest arrivals.

4:00 PM – Ceremony

    •    Full coverage of the ceremony: processional, vows, exchange of rings, first kiss, and recessional.

4:30 PM – Family Formals (if not done earlier)

    •    Group shots with extended family and any special requests.

5:00 PM – Cocktail Hour Coverage

    •    Candid guest photos.

    •    Couple sneaks away for sunset portraits (if applicable).

6:00 PM – Reception Begins

    •    Grand entrances, first dance, speeches, and dinner coverage.

7:00 PM – Reception Details & Dancing

    •    Photos of cake cutting, parent dances, and open dance floor.

8:00 PM – Coverage Ends

    •    Final candid moments and the couple’s farewell (if scheduled).

This timeline allows you to capture all key events while focusing on natural moments and artistic portraits.