Quick answer
Ask your photographer how much time they want for each part of the day and build those blocks into your timeline. Decide on a first look early, write a family photo list with names, and plan couple portraits for the best light of the day. Book your photographer 9 months before the wedding so you can plan this together.
Ask your photographer first
Your photographer has photographed many weddings and knows how long each part takes. Ask how much time they want for details, getting ready, family photos and couple portraits, and build your timeline around their answers.
First look or not
A first look means seeing each other privately before the ceremony. It lets you take most portraits and wedding party photos before the ceremony and join your cocktail hour. Without one, those photos happen after the ceremony, so plan more time there. Both work; choose based on what feels right to you.
Write the family photo list
Family photos run long when nobody knows who is next. Write a list of every grouping, with the names of the people in each. Give it to your photographer and to one family member who knows everyone and can round them up.
Plan portraits for the light
Ask your photographer when the light will be best at your venue on your date. Many couples step out for a few minutes of portraits near sunset during the reception. Put it in the timeline so the DJ and caterer know.
Tell guests where to be
If family photos happen straight after the ceremony, tell those people in advance where to go. An announcement at the end of the ceremony saves a lot of searching.
Leave room to breathe
Photo time always runs a little long. Leave a buffer, and decide in advance which shots you can drop if time gets tight.
Frequently asked questions
How long do wedding photos take?
It depends on your photographer, your shot list and the size of your family. Ask your photographer how much time they want for each part of the day and build it into your timeline.
Should we do a first look?
It is a personal choice. A first look moves most portraits before the ceremony and frees you to join the cocktail hour; without one, plan more photo time after the ceremony.
How do we keep family photos quick?
Write a list of every grouping with names, share it with your photographer, and ask a family member who knows everyone to gather people.