Recommendations
After many years of working with weddings, we’ve put together a list of advice to help
you organize the perfect day!
suggested timing for our team
Below are suggestions for how long each portion of the day may take.
Our team will work with you, based on your specific details, to customize the photo timeline for your day.
Morning photos (details, getting ready, portraits, first look) – 2 hours
Couple portraits – 1 to 2 hours
Ceremony – 1 hour
Bridal party – 30 minutes
Family portraits – about 30 minutes
Cocktail hour – 1 hour
Dinner and dancing – 4 to 5 hours
Before the wedding
Please share your full wedding schedule with us, including all locations. If you’re working with a planner, they can help prepare this. We’d also love to hear your vision for the day and any special requests. Keep in mind that we need 10–20 minutes for photo setup and up to 30 minutes for video, plus time to pack and move if locations change.
How to choose a hotel for getting ready photos
Choose a room with plenty of natural light, large windows, and white or neutral-colored ceilings and walls. Light pastel tones always look beautiful in photos and videos.
Picture-perfect venue
The best venues for photos and video have high white ceilings, bright interiors, and large open spaces. Think ballrooms, modern lofts, or restaurants with lots of natural light.
Makeup and hair
Professional hair and makeup make a huge difference. Always schedule a trial session and use trusted artists. If needed, we’re happy to recommend amazing professionals.
Keep in mind:
Your hairstyle should stay in place in any weather.
Make sure your face is visible from the side—avoid styles that cover your eyes or cheeks.
Getting ready
Please prepare and set aside the following items before we arrive: wedding invitations, wedding rings, earrings, necklace, bracelet, shoes, wedding dress, bridal bouquet, perfume, handwritten vows, any special notes or gifts, and other important keepsakes you want us to photograph.
We typically need around 1.5 to 2 hours for getting ready coverage. This includes photographing the details, moments with your friends or parents, portraits in your robe, the process of putting on the dress, and other natural, beautiful interactions.
We recommend having your bridesmaids and parents dressed and ready before you so that they look polished in the photos during these special moments.
First look
Please let us know in advance if you are planning to do a first look. We will help choose the location on the wedding day, depending on light and surroundings. We recommend picking a quiet, well-lit, and private area so you can fully enjoy this emotional moment. If you would like to include a parent or bridal party in the first look, let us know so we can plan accordingly.
couple portaits
We recommend setting aside 1 to 2 hours for your wedding portraits as a couple. If you booked a videography package, we may need a bit more time. Try to keep your photo session locations to 2 or 3 places maximum to avoid losing time traveling between them. Also, make sure you wear comfortable shoes during the session—your feet will thank you, and your flat shoes will not be visible under your long wedding dress.
Family photos
Please create a list of the family groupings you would like us to photograph. Assign someone who knows your families well to assist with gathering people for each photo. We suggest allowing at least 30 minutes for these portraits to make sure everyone is included and nothing is rushed.
Ceremony and reception
Our video team uses a lot of lighting and sound equipment to capture your entrance, dances, speeches and other moments with the best quality possible. To install this equipment we need about 20-30 minutes—please keep that in mind when you’re planning the day. The photographer needs less time to install their equipment but still has to be at the church/ballroom at least 15 minutes before the ceremony/reception.
Ceremony
To get all possible angles during the ceremony, we need to move around a lot. Please do not block side and center aisles.
During the procession, give each member of your family and bridal party their own time to shine. Let them walk nice and slow, at least 30 feet apart from each other. Not only will they appreciate a chance to show off their beautiful outfits, but it also gives us an opportunity to capture their entrance.
We often see that during speeches, the microphone blocks half of the face of the speaker, especially when the mic is on a stand. We recommend removing the stand and simply handing the microphone to the speaker.
During the ceremony, when you’re standing in front of each other, try looking at one another, not at the officiant. This way the guests (and us!) will see your emotions, not just the back of your head.
Before the ceremony we will advise you on how to stand and how to exchange rings so your guests can see it.
Ballroom and lightING
Even though we bring some lighting equipment, we highly recommend hiring a professional lighting team to enhance the mood of your reception. Make sure the dance floor and head table are well-lit with soft, neutral lighting. Avoid harsh colored lighting (such as red or green), as it can distort skin tones and affect the quality of your photos and videos.
Teamwork
After many years in the wedding industry, we know how important it is to coordinate with each other and with your planner. We make sure to stay out of each other’s frames and avoid blocking the guests’ view. During key moments, we plan our positions so that everything looks smooth and elegant, both in photo and video.
Your ideas and references
We care about your vision and want you to be truly happy with the results. Please send us any reference images or Pinterest boards that reflect your style. Understanding your taste helps us create a visual story that feels personal and authentic.