session details, tips, and answers
wedding day
I know there are countless things that go into a wedding day and make it completely unique. I also know that the planning and even your wedding day can come with a lot of stress. But it doesn't have to be that way!
My goal is to not only be your photographer but an extra hand to help you through this Experience.
Peruse this page and find tips – from planning to wedding day action items – that will reduce your stress and ultimately elevate your wedding day photos.
the experience
01.
transportation
dj/bands
cakes/desserts
catering/bar
rentals
hair/makeup
videographers
florals
Venues
planners
a collection of vendors I've worked with and recommend
vendors
02.
the first look timeline ⟶
the traditional timeline ⟶
Planning a wedding day timeline is highly encouraged. It keeps your vendors in-line and adds a layer of time-security to your day.
As we approach your wedding day, I will reach out via email to discuss your wedding day timeline to ensure that I understand your priorities.
Whether you're wanting to do a first look or go the traditional route, I've gathered two sample timelines to guide your planning:
timeline
03.
9: Hair and makeup begins
1: Detail photos, finishing touches of getting ready
2:30: Bride gets into dress; Groom puts on suit jacket/tie/boutonniere
3:30: Photos of Bride and Bridesmaids
4: Photos of Groom + Groomsmen
4:30: Photographers take ceremony and reception details
5:30: Ceremony
6: Ceremony ends and officiant announces family to stick around for photos
6–6:30: Family formals
6:30–6:40: Entire wedding party
6:40–7:15: Newlywed photos
7:30: Bride and Groom introduced to reception
7:35: First dance
7:40: Toast(s)
7:45: Dinner served
8:30: Cake cutting
8:35: Father/Daughter dance; Mother/Son dance
8:45: Open dance floor
10: Send-off
the traditional timeline:
9: Hair and makeup begins
1: Detail photos, finishing touches of getting ready
2:30: Bride gets into dress; Groom puts on suit jacket/tie/boutonniere
3: First Look with Bride and Groom
3:15: Wedding Party finishes getting ready
3:30–4:30: Wedding party portraits
4:30: Photographers shoot ceremony/reception details
5:30: Ceremony
6:Ceremony ends and officiant announces family to stick around for photos
6–6:30: Family formals
6–7:30: Cocktail Hour
6:30 –7:15: Newlywed photos
7:30: Bride and Groom introduced to reception
7:35: First dance
7:40: Toast(s)
7:45:Dinner served
8:30: Cake cutting
8:35: Father/Daughter dance; Mother/Son dance
8:45: Open dance floor
10: Send-off
the first look timeline:
BUDGET TIME TO DO NOTHING BUT ENJOY YOUR DAY
give your family a time that's 15-minutes early
add 15-minute buffer times at the big events
communicate time details to hair/makeup artists
pick your ceremony time 1st then plan around it
make the most of your timeline by considering these tips
timeline tips
04.
Bride with Mom
Bride with Dad
Bride and Groom with Bride's Parents
Above group + Bride’s Siblings with Spouses and Kids
Above group + Bride’s Grandparents Set 1
Above group + Bride’s Grandparents Set 2
Bride + Groom + sets of Parents
Groom with Mom
Groom with Dad
Bride and Groom with Groom’s Parents
Above group + Groom’s Siblings with Spouses and Kids
Above group + Groom’s Grandparents Set 1
Above group + Groom’s Grandparents Set 1
sample family photo list:
Family photos are so important, especially on a day when two families become one! Creating a list of must-have family portraits will ensure I'm not missing any photos of important people.
I will bring a few printed copies to reference and assigning a family member, friend, or bridesmaid/groomsmen to make sure each person is present for portraits.
family photos
05.
any sentimental items
BOUQUET + BOUTONNIÈRE
vows + letters
invites + programs + menus
jewelry + accessories
rings
veil
Both of your shoes
suit/tux with tie + pocket square
dress + dress hanger
wedding details that will be photographed
checklist
06.
Yes! We do all the designing then, before it's sent off to the lab to be printed, we'll set up a video call to make any changes you'd like. You'll end up with an incredible, tangible heirloom that will enable future generations to relive the day in a timeless format.
04. Do you offer albums?
A lot of photo magic is made when Mother Nature is raging. We can really have a great time if we're able to prepare. However, extreme wind can be an issue and we may want to postpone if it's too windy, though that very rarely happens.
03. what happens if its snowing or raining during our date?
When it comes to sending you the final images from your day, we deliver each photo that is worthy of being seen and tells the story of your day. On average we will deliver 50-75 images per hour of shooting on your wedding day.
02. HOW MANY PHOTOS SHOULD WE EXPECT YOU TO SEND US?
I will always get a sneak peek delivered to you within 1 week of your wedding day. After that, your wedding galleries will be delivered within 10 weeks of your wedding day.
01. HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE FOR US TO RECEIVE THE PHOTOS?
Have a question? I've got an answer! And if you don't see your question here, please reach out via email: jaymie@desertpaintbrush.com
FAQs
08.