How to Plan Your Wedding Timeline for Photos
One of the most common questions couples ask is: “How much time do we actually need for photos on our wedding day?”
The truth? A thoughtful photo timeline can completely change how your day feels, calmer, more present, and far less rushed. As a Palm Springs wedding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how the right timeline allows couples to enjoy their day and walk away with beautiful, meaningful images.
Here’s how to plan a wedding timeline that works for both.
Start With the Light
Photography is all about light — especially natural light. In desert locations like Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley, the best light typically happens:
Early morning
Late afternoon / golden hour
Golden hour (the hour before sunset) creates soft, glowing images and is ideal for couple portraits. When planning your timeline, look up your wedding date’s sunset time and work backward from there.
Getting Ready Photos: 60–90 Minutes
Getting ready photos tell the story of the day’s beginning — the anticipation, the details, the quiet moments.
Plan for:
Final hair and makeup touches
Details like dress, shoes, rings, invitations
Candid moments with your closest people
Pro tip: Try to finish hair and makeup before photography begins so you can relax and enjoy this part of the day.
First Look or No First Look?
This is completely personal, there’s no right or wrong choice.
First Look Benefits:
More time for couple portraits
A private, emotional moment together
A more relaxed timeline overall
No First Look:
Traditional aisle reveal
Photos pushed later into the day
Slightly tighter schedule
If you want a more laid-back wedding day, a first look is often the best option.
Ceremony Length Matters
Most ceremonies range from 15–30 minutes. Keep in mind:
Outdoor ceremonies may run long with wind or heat
Late ceremonies push portraits closer to sunset
Padding your timeline with an extra 10–15 minutes helps everything feel less rushed.
Family & Wedding Party Photos: 30–45 Minutes
These photos move quickly when there’s a plan. Tips:
Create a family photo list in advance
Assign someone who knows both families to help gather people
Take these photos immediately after the ceremony when possible
Golden Hour Couple Portraits: 15–25 Minutes
This is often my favorite part of the day. Stepping away during golden hour gives you:
Romantic, glowing portraits
A breather from the crowd
Some of the most timeless images of the day
Even a short window here makes a huge difference.
Build in Breathing Room
The best timelines leave space, space to laugh, breathe, and be present. A well-planned schedule allows moments to unfold naturally instead of feeling staged.
If you’re unsure where to start, your photographer should help guide you through this process.
A wedding timeline isn’t about perfection, it’s about creating a flow that supports your experience. When you plan with intention, your photos become a reflection of how the day felt, not just how it looked. If you’re planning a wedding in Palm Springs or Southern California and want guidance creating a timeline that truly works, I’d love to help.