Your wedding day is a celebration of love, shared with those dearest to your heart. As a luxury wedding photojournalist, my mission is to capture every moment—both the grand and the intimate—with artistry and authenticity. To achieve a seamless, magazine-worthy gallery, timing is everything. Below, I outline a detailed timeline from my perspective, ensuring each chapter of your day receives the photographic attention it deserves.

1. Hair & Makeup (2 – 2.5 hours)
   When: Morning, starting 3–4 hours before the ceremony
   Why: These early hours set the tone for your day.
   How I Capture It:
   Soft light streams into your suite as my unobtrusive lens documents the delicate artistry of hair and makeup. I capture candid laughter, the shimmer of anticipation, and the intricate details—heirloom jewelry, designer shoes, custom invitations. A minimum of 45 minutes is reserved at the end for “getting ready” portraits: you sliding into your gown, a parent’s emotional reaction, and those elegant finishing touches.
2. Travel to Ceremony (15 – 45 minutes, location-dependent)
   When: After attire is complete
   Why: Arrival is part of your story.
   How I Capture It:
   Journeying from the prep location to the ceremony site adds narrative dimension. Expect 15–30 minutes for in-city venues, up to 45 for country estates. I discreetly photograph your anticipation in the limousine or vintage car, as well as the grandeur of your arrival.
3. The Ceremony (30 – 75 minutes)
   When: Early afternoon
   Why: This is the heart of your day.
   Types: Non-denominational (20–30 min), Religious (45–75 min)
   How I Capture It:
   I blend into the background, honoring your traditions while documenting every essential moment: the processional, vows, exchange of rings, and that first, joy-filled kiss. I also capture your guests’ reactions—tears, smiles, and applause.
4. Family Formals (30 – 45 minutes)
   When: Immediately post-ceremony
   Why: These portraits become cherished heirlooms.
   How I Capture It:
   Organization is key. I recommend preparing a detailed shot list in advance. Each grouping takes about 3–5 minutes. For large families or extensive combinations, allow extra time. My approach is efficient yet unhurried, ensuring everyone looks their best and feels at ease.
5. Wedding Party Formals (20 – 30 minutes)
   When: Following family portraits
   Why: To capture the energy and elegance of your closest circle.
   How I Capture It:
   I direct your bridesmaids and groomsmen for both classic and editorial-style groupings, as well as joyful, candid moments—laughter, inside jokes, and celebratory toasts.
6. Couple’s Portraits (30 – 60 minutes)
   When: Around “Golden Hour” if possible, otherwise immediately post-formals
   Why: These are your signature images—timeless, romantic, and artfully composed.
   How I Capture It:
   I seek out beautiful light and luxurious backdrops, guiding you through natural, editorial poses while encouraging genuine connection. We pause for a champagne toast, a quiet walk, or a dramatic embrace—whatever feels most authentically you. If schedule permits, a brief sunset session offers the most luminous, cinematic portraits.
7. Cocktail Hour (45 – 60 minutes)
   When: While you’re with your photographer (and then joining guests)
   Why: Candid storytelling continues here.
   How I Capture It:
   I document the atmosphere: guests mingling, laughter floating over signature cocktails, the elegance of your décor, and the artistry of your culinary selections. If you join the latter part of cocktail hour, I capture greetings and spontaneous hugs.
8. Reception: Grand Entrance, Dinner, & Speeches (2 – 3 hours)
   When: Evening
   Why: This is the crescendo of celebration.
   How I Capture It:
   From your grand entrance toasts to the sparkle of candlelit tables, I chronicle every emotional beat. During dinner, I capture details—floral arrangements, place settings, and ambient moments—and focus on candid guest interactions. For speeches, I frame your reactions, laughter, and tears, preserving these heartfelt words for years to come.
9. First Dance & Dance Floor (45 – 60 minutes)
   When: Post-dinner
   Why: Here, spontaneity and joy reign.
   How I Capture It:
   The romance of your first dance, followed by parent or special dances, deserves to be immortalized. Typically, these all occur consecutively, requiring about **20–30
10. Additional Entertainment of Photography Options (10-15 minutes)
    When: Before photography leaves
    Why: Last minute captures such as “the dirty flat lay” or “paparazzi style flash portraits”
    How I capture it: If you’re dancing your butt off, i’ll happily slip out and not bother you by coming to say goodbye, but if I feel like you’d be interested …. i’ll ask you to walk out with me and photograph really cool on camera flash photos.