How to Prepare for Your Wedding Day Photos: Timeline, Tips, and Pro Secrets
Your wedding is one of the most important and emotional days of your life—and the photos are what you’ll look back on forever. But capturing those moments in a way that tells the full story doesn’t just happen. It takes planning, preparation, and trust in your creative team.
Whether you’ve booked 2060 Media or another photographer, here’s how to make sure your wedding day photos come out as beautiful and stress-free as the day itself.
Start with a Solid Timeline
A good wedding photo experience begins with great communication and a clear timeline.
Here are a few moments you’ll want to factor into your schedule:
Detail shots (rings, dress, invites, perfume, etc.): 30–45 minutes
Getting ready (hair, makeup, candid moments): 1–2 hours
First look (if you’re doing one): 30 minutes
Wedding party photos: 30–45 minutes
Family portraits: 20–30 minutes
Couple portraits (sunset/golden hour): 20–30 minutes
Pro Tip: Always build in buffer time. If you’re late getting ready, photos don’t have to be rushed. Aim to be ready 30 minutes before you need to be.
Extra Pro Tip: Check out the Freebies tab at the top of the page, to find a free Wedding Schedule Template
Choose the Right Getting Ready Space
The setting for your “getting ready” photos matters more than most people think. It sets the tone for your day and your gallery.
Tips for the best space:
Pick a spot with natural light—big windows are your best friend.
Keep the space clean and clutter-free (assign someone to do a quick sweep before photos).
Wear something intentional but comfortable—matching robes, neutral outfits, or something meaningful to you.
Pro Secret: If possible, keep your wedding dress hanging in that room so we can grab elegant prep shots with it before you put it on.
Plan for the First Look (Optional but Powerful)
A first look isn’t for everyone, but it’s one of the best ways to create a calm moment before the ceremony—and knock out a bunch of photos early.
Why it helps:
Gives you genuine, emotional reactions in private
Helps reduce timeline stress later in the day
Allows more time to enjoy cocktail hour or greet guests
Golden Hour = Magic Hour
That dreamy, warm light right before sunset? That’s golden hour—and it’s every photographer’s favorite time to shoot portraits.
Here’s how to work it in:
Ask your planner or officiant to schedule a quick 20–30 minute window around sunset
Use this time for relaxed couple portraits, post-ceremony
Even if the day’s chaotic, it’s a quiet moment you’ll both treasure
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff—Really
Poses, lighting, timing… we’ve got you. You don’t need to memorize Pinterest poses or worry about how you look—if you’re present, relaxed, and in the moment, it’ll show.
Here’s what to focus on instead:
Trust your creative team
Enjoy each other
Keep things moving—don’t overthink transitions or small details
Hydrate, eat something, and breathe
