One of the most common questions couples ask me while planning their wedding day is:

“What should our photography timeline actually look like?”

After photographing weddings across Arizona and California for 10 years, I’ve found that the smoothest days usually include a first look. It creates breathing room in the schedule, gives couples more time together, and allows us to photograph many of the important portraits before guests arrive.

Below is a real example of the type of timeline I create for my couples when they have 10–12 hours of photography coverage and choose to do a first look.

Every wedding is different, but this will give you a helpful starting point.

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Example Wedding Day Timeline With a First Look

12:00 PM

Photographers arrive at the venue to scout locations and lighting.

12:30 PM

Bride getting ready photos begin.

This is when I photograph details like:

• invitation suite
• rings
• jewelry
• perfume
• shoes
• dress

Having these items ready in one place helps everything run smoothly.

1:45 PM

Second photographer arrives and photographs the groom getting ready.

While I continue documenting the bride, the second photographer captures:

• groom details
• getting ready moments
• candid interactions with groomsmen.

2:15 PM

Hair and makeup should be complete.

This gives us time for finishing touches, robe photos, and relaxed getting-ready moments.

2:30 PM

Bride gets into the dress.

This moment is usually shared with a parent or close friends and often becomes one of the most emotional parts of the day.

3:00 PM

First Look + Romantic Portraits

This is when the couple sees each other privately before the ceremony.

After the first look, we photograph:

• couple portraits
• wedding party photos
• smaller groupings.

Doing this earlier in the day means couples get to enjoy cocktail hour later.

3:30 PM

Wedding party photos

We photograph the full wedding party together and then break into smaller groupings.

4:15 PM

Immediate family portraits

Getting these done before the ceremony saves a lot of time later.

4:45 PM

Couple hides away before ceremony

This is when I photograph ceremony details like:

• florals
• aisle setup
• programs
• venue space before guests enter.

5:00 PM

Guests begin arriving.

5:15 PM

Ceremony begins.

At this point, the planner’s timeline usually takes over the flow of events.

5:45 PM

Finish any remaining family photos + cocktail hour coverage.

7:20 PM

Sunset portraits

This is when we sneak away for a few quiet minutes to capture sunset photos. These are often some of the most beautiful images of the entire day.

10:00 PM

Grand exit / photography coverage ends.

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Why I Recommend a First Look

A first look isn’t required, but it does make the day much easier for most couples.

It allows us to:

• complete many portraits before the ceremony
• reduce post-ceremony stress
• give couples more time at cocktail hour
• create a private, emotional moment together.

And honestly, some of the most meaningful reactions happen when couples see each other without an audience.

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Every Timeline Is Customized

The timeline above is just a starting point.

When my couples book with me, I create a custom photography timeline based on:

• ceremony time
• sunset
• venue layout
• travel time between locations
• the priorities that matter most to them.

The goal is always the same: a relaxed, intentional wedding day where nothing feels rushed.

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Planning a Wedding in Arizona or California?

If you’re currently planning a wedding in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Palm Springs, or Southern California, I’m always happy to help couples think through their timeline early in the process.

You can reach out here to check availability or start the conversation.