Building your timeline

Building a little breathing room into your timeline can make a big difference in how your day feels. When things run slightly behind (which they often do), having that extra space keeps everything from feeling rushed and stressful.

If you’re undecided about doing a first look, I do typically recommend it since it allows us to get most of your portraits done before the ceremony and gives you time to enjoy cocktail hour with your people. That being said, if you’ve always imagined seeing each other for the first time walking down the aisle, that’s just as meaningful and I am excited to document that moment for you.

As a general guide when building out your timeline, the first look typically takes about 10 minutes, portraits of the two of you around 20-30 minutes, wedding party photos around 30 minutes, and family photos around 20-30 minutes depending on how many family members you have.

It’s also really nice to have a little time before the ceremony to pause and take it all in. I typically recommend you set aside 30-60 minutes before the ceremony to just relax. During that time, I am typically capturing guests arriving and any ceremony details.

Small things that help

If you’d like any special details photographed (invitations, jewelry, shoes, etc), having everything gathered in one place ahead of time makes it easy for me to start with those when I arrive.

Keeping the getting ready space as calm and uncluttered as possible can make a big difference in how your morning feels. The more relaxed the environment is, the more that will come across in your photos.

For family photos, it’s also really helpful to have someone who knows everyone calling out names so I can focus on arranging and photographing. If you don’t have someone for that, I’m always happy to call out names as well.

My approach on the wedding day

For most of the day, I’m simply documenting things as they’re naturally happening. I’m paying close attention to moments as they unfold and capturing them in a way that feels honest and true. There might be a few moments where I gently step in, like guiding you toward better light or making a small adjustment, but for the most part I want everything to feel natural and uninterrupted.

During portraits, I’ll give you a bit more direction so you’re not left wondering what to do, but I don’t ever want you to feel like you have to perform for the camera. I’ll guide you into positions that photograph well and from there I want you to interact the way you normally would. Talking, laughing, being close. The goal is for your photos to reflect how you naturally are together.

When things don’t go to plan

Weddings rarely go according to plan and that’s completely okay. Some of the most meaningful moments happen outside of what was expected. The more you are able to stay present and focus on what actually matters, the more your day will feel like your own and that always translates into the photos.

If the timeline shifts or things don’t unfold perfectly, nothing is ruined. You’re still getting married and your day is still worth documenting exactly as it is.