A Winter wedding photography timeline is essential for couples who want to ensure that they get the perfect photos on their winter wedding, without feeling rushed or stressed. It’s like a roadmap that helps you navigate the day and make sure you don’t miss out on any important photo ops.
Especially during winter, when daylight fades early at 4.30 PM, careful planning becomes paramount. To make the most of available light, consider a first look before the ceremony or schedule an earlier ceremony time. This strategic approach allows for creative portraits while daylight is still ample.
Nevertheless, weddings can bring unexpected twists. Therefore, a flexible wedding photo timeline is vital. By preparing and having a clear vision of your goals, you can minimize stress and guarantee cherished memories of your special day.
Below is our Mango Ultimate Winter Wedding Photography Timeline.
A. WINTER WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY TIMELINE SAMPLE (WITH FIRST LOOK)
Doing a first look before the ceremony is always a great idea especially when you don’t have good amount of time between ceremony and cocktail hour/reception to shoot creative portrait, bridal party and family photo. It is also a great idea in winter time if your ceremony time is in the late afternoon, considering the daylight saving and the early sunset time.
TIMELINE
9.45 AM – 10.45 AM : Groom getting ready (or same time as bride if split coverage)
10.45 AM – 12.15 PM : Bride getting ready (or same time as groom if split coverage)
12.15 – 12.30 PM : Travel time
12.30 – 1.30 PM : First look and Creative
1.30 – 2.15 PM : Bridal Party photos
2.15 – 2.30 PM : Travel time
2.30 – 2.45 PM : Down time | Photographer shoot ceremony space
2.45 – 3.45 PM : Ceremony
3.45 AM – 4.15 PM : Family photos
4.15 – 4.30 PM : Travel time
4.30 – 5.oo PM : Reception decor photos
5.00 PM – onwards : Reception
B. WINTER WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY TIMELINE SAMPLE (WITHOUT FIRST LOOK)
If you prefer to keep it traditional and see each other for the first time on the aisle, it’s crucial to choose the right ceremony time at the church or venue. Ideally, Three to four hours before the sunset for ceremony time, especially if you are doing a full mass at the church, or if your ceremony location is far from your reception venue. This way, we can tackle the creative, bridal party, and family portrait with good amount of time after the ceremony without feeling rushed as the evening sky approaches.
TIMELINE
9.45 AM – 10.45 AM : Groom getting ready (or same time as bride if split coverage)
10.45 AM – 12.15 PM : Bride getting ready (or same time as groom if split coverage)
12.15 – 12.30 PM : Travel time
12.30 – 12.45 PM : Down time | Photographer shoot ceremony space
12.45 – 1.45 PM : Ceremony
1.45 AM – 2.15 PM : Family photos
2.15 – 3.00 PM : Bridal party photos
3.00 – 4.00 PM : Creative ( Golden hour )
4.00 – 4.15 PM : Travel time
4.15 – 5.00 PM : Reception decor photos | Cocktail hour
5.00 PM – onwards : Reception
TIPS & TRICKS
Planning a wedding during winter can be very challenging. But worry not! As we are here to give you tips and tricks to ensure your special day runs smoothly :
- Plan your creative location in advance, especially if it requires a permit. Ideally, choose a spot with both indoor and outdoor options in case of bad weather. Alternatively, if your primary location lacks indoor space, consider booking a nearby studio or using the hotel where you’re getting ready or venue where you hold your reception.
- Incorporate winter accessories into your bridal attire, such as a faux fur stole, gloves, or a stylish cape to stay warm during outdoor creative session.
- Don’t hesitate to seek assistance. If you’re unsure about creating a wedding photography timeline, reach out to your photographer for guidance. They can assist you in determining your requirements and scheduling everything accordingly. Additionally, it’s essential to be realistic about your timeline, therefore leaving some buffer time for unexpected events is always a great idea.
- Last but not least, embrace the weather. A snowy landscape could be an amazing backdrop, the biggest charm of a winter wedding. Don’t be afraid to get out there and experience the snow! Bring a clear umbrella if you don’t want to get snowflakes in your hair.
Your wedding day is meant to be a joyous occasion, so don’t allow the timeline to overwhelm you. Simply unwind and savor the moment, and allow your photographer to capture every bit of it for you!
Looking for more tips to help plan your day? Check out these blog posts below