We’re so excited to capture your day!
A little preparation goes a long way. We’ve created this guide to answer common questions, share helpful tips, and make the planning process feel a lot less overwhelming. Our hope is that it helps you spend less time stressing over timelines and logistics, and more time looking forward to your big day.
1 . Our shooting style…
Your wedding day is not a photoshoot.. it’s a celebration!
Our focus is to capture real, unscripted moments rather than constantly posing them. We want you to feel free to be yourself and soak in every moment with the people you love.
And don’t worry, we’ll be sure to step in with intentional direction if it’s needed.
2. Timeline Tips
A well-built timeline makes the biggest difference in how smooth and enjoyable your day feels. When things are planned intentionally, everything flows naturally, nothing feels rushed, and we’re able to capture your day at its absolute best.
Here is our recommended timeline with coverage times:
Details (dress, rings, venue) // 45 min
Getting Ready // 1 hour
First Look (optional) // 30 min
Bridal Party Photos // 45 min
Couples Photos // 1 hour
Family Photos // 30 min
Golden Hour // 30 min (HIGHLY recommended)
We’ve also created a great timeline example for you to check out here.
3. Getting Ready
Here are some things to consider about the “getting ready” spaces before we arrive:
If possible, choose a space with natural light
Keep the space as clean as possible (designate a “clutter” corner)
Have all detail items ready (dress, rings, shoes, perfume, etc.)
4. Ceremony Tips
Here are our favorite ceremony tips:
Consider an unplugged ceremony (no phones in aisle)
Give us clear access to the aisle if allowed
Take your time during the kiss
Plan for a kiss half way down the aisle during your recessional
If your ceremony is outdoors, try to avoid harsh midday sun. If you have the flexibility, later afternoon tends to look best. We’re always happy to give input based on your venue!
5. Family Photos
Family photos are the #1 place timelines fall apart, so getting this right is important. We have a list at the end of this page for you to fill out with family groupings. We recommend 8-12 groupings. The longer the list, the less time you’ll have for other moments.
Assign a “family helper” for each side (this is a must)
Do one side of the family first before doing the other side
Be ready right after the ceremony
Let family know ahead of time where to go and when to be there
If a grouping/photo is not on the list, we will try our best to add it at the end of the family photo session if there is enough time
6. Couples Photos
No need to stress about posing! We got you covered and will guide everything.
These should be high priority on your wedding timeline
If you want more creative shots in multiple locations, we can plan enough time for that
Privacy from guests and the wedding party will create a more comfortable atmosphere
We can capture any “must have” shots as long as we know about them ahead of time
7. Reception Tips
A well-paced reception keeps the energy high and avoids feeling rushed (or delayed).
Make sure you actually eat (you’ll thank us for this)
Less is more. Try to keep toasts, speeches, and first dances tastefully numbered (8 speeches is crazy lol)
Consider doing toasts/speeches earlier
The best dance floors are not interrupted frequently
If you want golden hour photos, they will be a part of your reception schedule
You don’t have to do a send off :)
If you want to do a send off, here are some of our favorite ideas:
Paper planes
Bubbles
Confetti
Vintage Car
Ribbon wands
Private last dance + exit instead of a send off
8. Golden Hour
“Golden hour” is the short window of soft, warm light that happens just before sunset (usually during your reception). This is where we get the money shots, and it’s all about timing and a little bit of luck. If you’re not sure how to add this smoothly into your reception schedule, we’re glad to help!
Set aside at least 30 minutes in your reception schedule
45-60 minutes before sunset
PRO TIP: We also love “blue hour” (shortly after sunset)
If you don’t know when golden hour will be on that day, we can help you figure out what time would be best.
Family Photos List
