Looking for an 8 hour wedding photography timeline that keeps your day stress-free? I’ve got you covered! Planning your wedding day can feel overwhelming, but having a structured timeline can make everything flow smoothly. If you’re looking for a simple yet effective 8-hour wedding photography timeline that includes a first look, I’ve got you covered! I’ve used this template year after year to help my couples have a stress-free and beautifully documented day.
8-Hour Wedding Photography Timeline
12:30 PM – Coverage Begins & Detail Shots
Your photographer will start by capturing all the gorgeous details—your dress, rings, invitations, shoes, and any sentimental items. Candid moments of you and your wedding party getting ready will also be documented.
1:00 PM – Bride + Bridesmaid Getting Ready Photos
Bridesmaids in their dresses, final makeup touch-ups, and those beautiful pre-ceremony moments happen now.
1:45 PM – Hair & Makeup Final Touches + Getting Dressed
Hair and makeup should be completed at this time, and the bride and bridal party start getting dressed.
2:00 PM – Bride Gets Dressed & Groom + Groomsmen Getting Ready Photos
Final getting ready moments for both the bride and groom, capturing those emotional and candid interactions.
2:30 PM – First Look & Portraits
One of the most emotional and intimate moments of the day! The first look allows you to share a quiet, special moment together before the hustle and bustle begins. This is also a great time to take couple portraits while hair and makeup are fresh.
3:15 PM – Bridal Party & Family Photos
With the first look done, we’ll capture fun and formal shots with your wedding party and immediate family.
4:00 PM – Hide Bride Away Before Ceremony & Photograph Ceremony + Reception Space
The bride takes a moment to freshen up while the photographer captures the beautifully set ceremony and reception space before guests arrive.
4:30 PM – Ceremony Begins
Time to say “I do!” Your photographer will capture the processional, vows, ring exchange, first kiss, and all the little moments in between.
5:00 PM – Cocktail Hour
Guests enjoy drinks and appetizers while you relax or take additional portraits.
6:00 PM – Reception Begins
Your reception officially kicks off!
6:05 PM – Entrance, First Dance & Toasts
Your grand entrance, followed by your first dance and heartfelt toasts.
6:30 PM – Dinner
Time to enjoy a meal with your loved ones.
7:10 PM – Special Dances, Cake Cutting & Dancing
Parent dances, cake cutting, and the dance floor opening up for celebration!
7:30 PM – Sunset Photos
A golden hour session to capture dreamy, romantic portraits.
8:30 PM – Coverage Ends
Final moments captured before wrapping up your photography coverage.
Why This Timeline Works
This 8-hour timeline ensures that all the key moments of your wedding day are beautifully documented while keeping things relaxed and enjoyable. With a first look included, you get extra time for portraits and can fully enjoy your cocktail hour with your guests.
Need a customized timeline? I’m here to help! Let’s craft the perfect schedule for your special day.
