The Bride Getting Ready

You should set aside about an hour when planning for this part of the day. When we first arrive we take the detail shots, and the Bride and Bridesmaids should be finishing up their hair and make-up. Details such as the hanging wedding dress with the Bridesmaids dressed will also be photographed. Consider choosing a location to hang the wedding dress that has ample natural lighting; for example hanging it on a window frame. We photograph the finishing touches of the make up being done. If you are planning to do a gift exchange between the Bride and the Groom this would be the time to open your gift. You should consider whether you want to open the gift while wearing your wedding dress or before you put your gown on. We take pictures of you putting on your gown, and getting zipped up usually done by the Mother of the Bride, or another close family member/friend. Deciding ahead of time who will button you up avoids awkwardness in the moment. Are you planning on doing a first look with your Bridesmaids, or Father of the Bride? Letting us know these details in advance will allow us to properly prepare the time and have a location in mind. Sometimes during this time we take a few pictures of the Bridesmaids with the Bride. 

Groom Getting Ready

This portion requires about an hour. When we first arrive we take the Groom detail shots. Having those items ready, so we can position them appropriately saves time. The men should have on their pants and shirts. During this time the men put on the remaining details; their ties, suspenders, shoes, etc. If there is a gift exchange this would be the time where the Groom will open his gift from his Bride. Are you considering having a toast with your groomsmen? Consider having matching glasses or flasks. If time and location allow, we will take the Groomsmen pictures at this time. 

Ceremony

The ceremony typically takes 30 minutes to 1 hour. We like to arrive 15 minutes early to set-up and plan for the ceremony. During this time we will capture your guests settling in their seats along with all of the other small details that you as a couple have put together for your ceremony space. Each ceremony is unique to the couple and letting us know the details ahead of time allows us to stand in the right place at the right time. The itinerary of the ceremony should be created with the help of your officiant.

Pictures

Deciding when to take the large majority of your pictures will assist with planning your day. The picture taking portion of the day takes about 1.5 hours to 2 hours. Are you taking your pictures before or after the ceremony? If we are taking pictures before the ceremony, it will allow you more time to mingle with your guests during cocktail hour and you may even choose to make that portion of your day shorter. We all know that moment when you walk down the aisle is very emotional and for some couples they would like that to be the first time they see each other on that day. Doing a "first look" with your partner will allow for you to still have that moment and give you a chance to take some of your pictures before your guests arrive. This is a suggested breakdown of approximate times certain pictures generally take:

Pictures of the Couple: 30 - 45 minutes

Bride and Bridesmaids: 15 minutes

Groom and Groomsmen: 15 minutes

Entire Bridal Party: 30 minutes

Pictures with Family: 30 minutes

Golden Hour: 15 - 20 minutes

Most often, pictures with your family are done directly after the ceremony with a location near the ceremony site. This allows you to make sure you get a picture with everyone on your list. Creating a list of all the people you want pictures with is very helpful with making this portion of the day go smoothly. There are many different combinations when it comes to each family, and different family dynamics, so having all the combinations sent to us before your wedding date will allow us to make this process efficient. For example, you may want a picture with the Bride and her mother, Bride with both parents, Bride and Groom and both her parents, and the rest of the family. We can direct the larger group and ensure you get every combination that you need!