Client Resources & Prep Guide
Preparing for your photography session helps ensure a relaxed experience, beautiful images, and a smooth flow on the day of your shoot. Below you’ll find helpful guidance for weddings, engagement sessions, and family portraits, along with a sample hour‑by‑hour wedding photography timeline designed for photographers to follow.
What to Wear for Your Photoshoot
Weddings
- Bride: Choose fabrics that move well (chiffon, silk, lace). Steam or press the gown ahead of time. Keep a robe or button‑down shirt handy for getting‑ready photos.
- Groom & Wedding Party: Ensure suits are tailored and pressed. Remove phones, wallets, and keys from pockets before photos.
- Color Palette: Coordinate tones rather than matching exactly. Neutral bases with soft accent colors photograph best.
- Shoes: Break them in ahead of time to stay comfortable during portraits.
Engagement Sessions
- Two Outfits Recommended: One casual and one dressier option.
- Avoid: Large logos, busy patterns, or neon colors.
- Coordinate, Don’t Match: Complementary colors and textures photograph beautifully.
- Layers & Movement: Jackets, scarves, and flowing fabrics add depth and visual interest.
Family Portraits
- Choose a Color Story: Soft neutrals with 1–2 accent colors work best.
- Comfort is Key: Children should be able to move freely.
- Footwear Matters: Shoes will likely appear in photos—plan accordingly.
- Bring Backups: Extra outfits for young children are always a good idea.
Location Suggestions
Weddings
- Ceremony site (church, chapel, outdoor venue)
- Reception venue details (ballroom, tent, garden)
- Nearby scenic areas for portraits (gardens, historic buildings, waterfronts)
Engagement Sessions
- Parks, beaches, or waterfronts
- Urban settings (downtown streets, architecture)
- Meaningful personal locations (where you met, favorite café, proposal site)
Family Portraits
- Local parks or nature preserves
- In‑home lifestyle sessions
- Seasonal outdoor locations (fall foliage, spring gardens)
Tip: Choose locations with personal meaning and minimal distractions for timeless images.
Day‑Of Photography Timeline Tips
- Build buffer time into every part of the day.
- Schedule portraits when light is soft (early morning or late afternoon when possible).
- Allow extra time for family formals.
- Assign a family member or coordinator to help gather people efficiently.
Sample Wedding Photography Timeline (Hour‑by‑Hour)
- 11:00 AM – Photographer Arrival: Detail shots (dress, rings, shoes, invitation suite); Venue exterior and room details.
- 11:30 AM – Getting Ready (Bride & Groom): Hair and makeup finishing touches; Candid moments with bridal party; Groom prep and individual portraits.
- 1:00 PM – Bride Gets Dressed: Final touches; Emotional moments with parents and bridal party.
- 1:30 PM – First Look (Optional): Couple portraits; Wedding party portraits.
- 2:30 PM – Family Formals (If First Look): Immediate family portraits.
- 3:30 PM – Ceremony Details: Ceremony space, florals, programs.
- 4:00 PM – Ceremony Begins: Processional; Vows and ring exchange; Recessional.
- 4:30 PM – Post‑Ceremony Congratulations: Candid hugs and reactions.
- 4:45 PM – Family Formals (If No First Look): Immediate and extended family portraits.
- 5:30 PM – Couple Portraits / Golden Hour: Romantic portraits in ideal lighting.
- 6:30 PM – Reception Details: Room shots, table settings, cake.
- 7:00 PM – Reception Events Begin: Grand entrance; First dance; Parent dances; Toasts.
- 8:30 PM – Open Dancing & Candids: Guest interactions; Dance floor moments.
- 9:30 PM – Night Portraits (Optional): Creative couple portraits.
- 10:00 PM – Coverage Concludes
Final Notes
A well‑planned timeline allows your photographer to focus on capturing authentic, meaningful moments while keeping the day relaxed and enjoyable. We’re always happy to customize timelines and prep guidance to fit your unique celebration.
If you have questions or would like help building a personalized timeline, please reach out—we’re here to help every step of the way.