How to Build a Wedding Day Timeline for the Best Photography Coverage

Seattle is ready to deliver with amazing locations no matter what vibe you’re looking for with your engagement session. Whether you’re feeling a natural or urban landscape, summer or winter weather, sunrise or sunset – there are countless options!

Most of these locations are in Seattle, or within an hour drive. These aren’t the only locations I am up for shooting, these are just some of my favorites that I have been able to shoot at, or visit. Ideas for locations and unique Seattle engagement sessions are always coming to me. There are so many ways to make your session uniquely you and I am always ready to collaborate on something creative!

Creating a well-structured wedding day timeline is key to ensuring a stress-free day and capturing the best possible photos. The right schedule allows for natural moments, beautiful lighting, and a seamless flow from one event to the next. Whether you’re planning a small intimate wedding or a grand celebration, here’s how to build a timeline that maximizes wedding photography coverage and keeps the day running smoothly.

Click Here for a Free Sample Timeline
The first step in building a wedding day timeline is determining when your ceremony will take place. Everything else will be planned around this moment, from getting ready to your grand exit. Consider:

  • Whether your ceremony is indoors or outdoors
  • Sunset time for ideal lighting
  • The length of your ceremony

1. Start with Your Ceremony Time

The getting ready portion of the day sets the tone for your wedding and allows for beautiful, candid moments. Ideally, wedding photography coverage should begin at least 2-3 hours before the ceremony. This gives time to capture:

  • Candid moments with your wedding party
  • Detail shots (rings, dress, accessories, invitations)
  • Getting dressed with help from loved ones
  • A first look with parents or close friends

2. Plan Your Getting Ready Photos

A first look is an intimate moment where the couple sees each other before the ceremony. While it’s not required, it can help with timeline flexibility and ease nerves.

If you opt for a first look, plan for at least 30 minutes to:
  • Capture your reactions in a private setting
  • Take a few couple’s portraits before guests arrive
  • Potentially share private vows

3. Decide on a First Look (or Not!)

If you choose to do a first look, wedding party and family portraits can take place before the ceremony. Otherwise, they are typically scheduled during cocktail hour.

Recommended Time:
  • Wedding Party Photos: 30 minutes
  • Family Formals: 30-40 minutes
  • Couple’s Portraits: 30 minutes (sunset is ideal)

4. Schedule Time for Wedding Party & Family Photos

A well-structured timeline ensures guests aren’t left waiting while still allowing ample time for photography. If you’re not doing a first look, cocktail hour is a great time for:

  • Family portraits
  • Wedding party photos
  • Couple’s portraits

If your ceremony and reception are at different locations, factor in travel time to avoid rushing.

5. Plan Your Ceremony to Reception Transition

Golden hour—shortly before sunset—offers soft, flattering light for stunning portraits. If possible, plan 15-30 minutes during your reception to step outside for golden hour photos. These are often some of the most breathtaking images of the day!

6. Capture Golden Hour Portraits

The key to great reception photos is timing. Most photographers stay for key moments like:

  • Grand entrance
  • First dance & parent dances
  • Toasts
  • Cake cutting
  • Dance floor moments
  • Grand exit (if applicable)

7. Plan Reception Events with Photography in Mind

5 Unique Wedding Ceremony Additions

Sample Wedding Day Timeline for Photography Coverage (10 hours)

12:00 PM

2:00 PM

2:30 PM

3:00 PM

4:00 PM

4:30 PM

5:00 PM

6:00 PM

7:00 PM

7:30 PM

8:00 PM

9:30 PM

10:00 PM

Getting Ready Begins
  • Photographer arrives for detail shots & candid getting ready moments
First Look & Couple’s Portraits
  • Private moment between the couple
  • Initial couple’s portraits
Wedding Party Photos
  • Group shots & individual photos
Photography Coverage Ends
  • Photographer departs, capturing final moments
Family Portraits (30 min)
  • Immediate family photos before guests arrive
Ceremony Begins
  • Guest arrival & pre-ceremony candids
Ceremony Ends
  • Just married couple exits, guests transition to cocktail hour
Post-Ceremony Portraits (if no first look)
  • Family & wedding party portraits


Reception Begins
  • Grand entrance & dinner

Sunset Portraits (Golden Hour)
  • 15-30 minutes for stunning evening shots
First Dance & Speeches
  • Memorable and emotional moments captured
Dance Floor Opens
  • Fun & candid moments of guests enjoying the celebration
Grand Exit (Optional)
  • Sparklers, bubbles, or another send-off idea

A well-planned wedding day timeline ensures smooth transitions and stress-free photography coverage. By allowing ample time for portraits, key moments, and natural interactions, you’ll get the best possible wedding photos without feeling rushed.

If you need help building a timeline tailored to your wedding, let’s chat!


Why a Wedding Day Timeline Matters