Photographer’s Take : create a wedding timeline
There are usually a few key wedding day elements determined prior to plugging us in…sunset, locations, ceremony time and when the venue will kick you off the dance floor at the end of the evening. Those four factors (sunset, locations, ceremony time, lights off) are the framework of our timeline. Next, we would insert transportation with time buffers.
Consider what matters to you - the feel, the look and the moments. While this enters into shot-list territory, it mirrors how we allocate time. Do you want lots of getting ready photos? Do you want streamlined getting ready photos? Do the details make you smile or not so much? Are solo bridal or dude portraits a must, one or two or please No? Do you or fiance have a photography threshold? Is the exit gonna be epic or quiet fade away? Once you have your preferences dialed in, it makes the process of when and where less daunting.
The next question for us is ‘yes or no’ to a first look. For a winter wedding, we often push for a first look so you are able to have the lowcountry vignettes and daylight in your photos. A first look also allows you a moment to drop in and connect before the day is in full swing. It also gives you the freedom to take wedding party and immediate family photographs prior to ceremony so you are open to mingle and participate in your cocktail hour. Venues and planners will generally want you tucked away approx 30 minutes prior to the ceremony before guests arrived which is a perfect time to freshen up.
If you are a ‘no thanks’ to a first look, we will utilize your cocktail hour for images of the two of you, your bridal party and family images. Either way, we are big on shot list, sharing shot list with both moms so everyone is in sync and assertive wranglers (that know your families names and quirks) to help us gather.
We pull our couples around sunset for the magic light. The exact timing depends on where the sun is setting (over water, behind trees or buildings) and if we are having a sunny or cloudy day.
For the reception, the caterer will have a time flow to ensure your food is cold when it should be cold and hot when it should be hot. We try to eat when you eat, so we don’t miss the good stuff. Regarding first dances, toasts, cake cutting, exits and all things receptions, we love a general sketch and are flexible if things move at a different pace.
