One of the biggest secrets to natural wedding photography isn’t having a perfectly choreographed day. It’s all about having a timeline that has space planned into it.

Your wedding day should never feel like you’re rushing from one thing to the next. Here are ten things to consider when planning a wedding day timeline that feels perfect and completely about you both.

1. Give Yourself More Time

Almost every wedding runs slightly behind schedule and that is completely normal. Hair takes a little longer. Someone misplaces the rings. And the groom left it too late to take a shower and get ready.

Adding a little extra time into your morning means you can enjoy getting ready rather than watching the clock.

2. Think About the Light

Natural light makes a huge difference to your wedding photos.

If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony or dreaming of romantic couple portraits, think about when the sun will set on your date. During Spring and Summer months we can often sneak away for a few couple portraits. Golden hour will create some magic with the soft, warm sun providing a beautiful glow on everything.

3. Don’t Forget to Include Travel Time

Google maps may say it’s a 20 minute drive, but wedding guests may get stuck in traffic. Also remember parking takes longer than you think. Especially with the introduction of the parking apps like Ringo in city centres. I speak from personal experience.

Always build in a little buffer time so no-one feels rushed.

4. Keep the Morning Relaxed

One of the most emotional parts of any wedding day is the morning.

Leave enough time to enjoy a breakfast or a coffee with your bridesmaids. Cards can be read or letters you’ve sent to each other. Enjoy a quiet moment with your parents and simply soak up the atmosphere. These moments become meaningful when you look back on the photographs in years to come.

5. Consider a First Look

A first look isn’t for everyone. If you’re planning a more intimate wedding it can transform your day. It allows us to capture some portraits while you’re both looking the best you’ll look all day. Hair, make up, dress or suit are all perfect.

6. Plan Enough Time for Group Photos

Family photographs are incredibly important but they really don’t need to take over your drinks reception. Having a list of your most important group combinations prepared beforehand helps this run quickly & smoothly. Allowing the day to flow nicely.

7. Schedule Time for Just the Two of You

Your wedding will honestly fly by.

Set aside 10-15 minutes where you can simply be together. A gentle walk, a quiet drink or couple portraits. Let this moment give you time to reflect on what’s just happened. YOU’RE MARRIED, WOO HOO!

The best photographs happen when you’re enjoying each other’s company.

8. Leave Time to Enjoy your Drinks Reception

Many couples underestimate how much they’ll love this part of the day. Everyone is relaxed, catching up and celebrating what’s just happened. Try not to overfill this time with formalities. Appreciate some mingle time and the candid photos that are being taken.

9. Think About Evening Atmosphere

If you’ve planned sparklers, live music, a first dance or evening entertainment allow time for everyone to settle before the celebrations begin. The best dance floor pics happen when everyone is happy, relaxed and soaking up the atmosphere of the celebration.

10. Remember the Timeline Should Work for You

There isn’t one perfect wedding schedule. Whether you’re planning a woodland celebration, an elegant city wedding, an intimate micro wedding or an adventurous elopement, it’s all about you. Your timeline should take you both into account. The happiest weddings are those where couples have time to be present.

My Biggest Piece of Advice

Couples often tell me they want photographs that feel natural, romantic and full of genuine emotion. My advice is always the same, don’t overfill your day, take your time and plan for extra time between transitions.

Leave room for the unexpected conversations and the spontaneous laughter. Hug your grandparents. When there’s a quiet moment look for each other and realise you’ve married your favourite person.

Planning Your Wedding?

If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who’ll help you build relaxed timeline, keep your day flowing naturally and capture all the little moments, I’d love to hear your plans. We may be a great match for each other. Find out how to achieve beautiful photos in a calm and unobtrusive way.

rubysalmonphotography.com