Your wedding day is a collection of beautiful moments that you’ll want to remember forever. From getting ready with loved ones to the first dance, each part deserves its time in the spotlight. 

But with so much to capture and immortalize, you might wonder – how long should wedding photos take? Is there a formula and can it take too long, or be too short? Where’s the sweet spot when it comes to wedding photos?

Here’s a breakdown to help you time things right, for each part of the wedding – pre-ceremony, ceremony, post-ceremony, and reception.

Pre-Ceremony Photos

The hours before your ceremony are filled with anticipation and emotion, which makes them perfect for candid shots. 

Plan on 30-45 minutes for getting-ready moments, such as putting on your dress, makeup, and sharing laughs with your wedding party. If you’re planning a first look, add another 15-20 minutes. 

These photos set the tone for the day and should help you relax and get in the right frame of mind. Besides, they are a lovely testament of friendship and family, making them that much more special.

Ceremony Photos

Your photographer will work discreetly during the ceremony, capturing key moments like the processional, vows, ring exchange, and first kiss. 

While no extra time is needed here, it’s essential to communicate any special moments in advance to ensure they’re captured seamlessly. 

Having a clear understanding with your photographer ensures each highlight is caught without extending the ceremony’s natural flow. 

This way, you’ll be sure that all your best moments are captured and you’ll be able to be fully present in the moment.

Post-Ceremony Photos – Group Shots and Family Portraits

Right after the ceremony, take 30 minutes for family and group photos. This quick session helps keep everyone organized and lets you move smoothly into the reception. 

To streamline things, create a shot list and designate someone to help gather people. This keeps the process efficient and enjoyable, allowing you to spend more time celebrating.

Couple Portraits

With the family photos done, dedicate around 20-30 minutes to intimate shots of just the two of you. This time is a chance to step back, relax, and focus on each other while your photographer captures natural, candid moments. 

Find a scenic spot at or near your venue to add a personal touch, whether it’s a garden, pathway, or cozy room, and let your photographer work their magic.

Reception Photos

The reception brings everyone together for celebration and deserves its own set of memorable shots. 

Rather than setting aside large blocks of time, let the photographer capture key moments like the first dance, toasts, and cake cutting naturally. Usually, a few minutes for each highlight is all that’s needed, allowing you to enjoy the festivities while getting all the important photos.

Conclusion

So, how long should wedding photos take? Ultimately, it’s about balancing time with the memories you want to capture. 

At the end of the day, the photos should be about your wedding day, not the other way around.

By working with your photographer, you can build a timeline that fits your vision without overwhelming your day. An organized approach ensures every cherished moment is recorded while allowing you to fully enjoy the experience.

But one thing is for sure – having a trusted, professional photographer who gets your vision, like the ones from Emerald Moon Weddings, will ease your mind and fill your heart.