Wedding Photography: A Guide to Wedding Day Events

A newlywed couple poses elegantly on the grand staircase of the historic Newhall Mansion, capturing a timeless moment against the stunning architectural backdrop.

A Guide to Wedding Day Events

Planning your wedding photography timeline is essential to ensuring a smooth, stress-free day. While every wedding is unique, and you can adjust the timeline to fit your preferences, consulting with your photographer will help maximize the time for beautiful, meaningful photos. We lay the day out with your wedding album in mind, ensuring that every moment is documented in a way that tells the story of your special day. Below is a guide to wedding day events and how wedding day photography generally unfolds.

1. Groom Prep

Groom prep is the perfect time to document the small details that complete his wedding day look. During this time, the photographer will capture:

• Accessories like watches, cufflinks, and wedding rings.

• The groom in his suit pants and dress shirt before he finishes getting dressed.

• The best man assisting with final touches like fastening cufflinks or adjusting a tie.

• Solo portraits of the groom.

• Groomsmen photos, showcasing camaraderie and excitement before the ceremony.

  
  
  
  

  

  A groom stands confidently in a white suit with his silhouetted groomsmen behind him, creating a striking and dramatic composition.

  
  

2. Bride Prep

Bride prep is one of the most anticipated parts of the day, full of emotion and excitement. This portion includes:

• Detailed shots of the dress, veil, jewelry, and shoes.

• The finishing touches of hair and makeup.

• Photos of the bride with her dress before she puts it on.

• Fun moments with the bridesmaids, such as popping champagne or tossing confetti.

• The bride getting dressed, with shots of her putting on earrings, bracelets, and shoes.

• Elegant bridal portraits before heading to the next part of the day.

  
  

  

  A bride elegantly dressed in a floral gown holds a bouquet as she receives the finishing touches to her hair at a beauty suite in Staten Island.

  
  

3. First Look

If you choose to have a first look, it will take place after the bride and groom prep. The first look is an intimate moment for the couple to see each other before the ceremony, creating beautiful, candid emotions for photos. It also allows for more flexibility in the photography schedule.

A bride gently taps the groom's shoulder, sharing a joyful first look moment in anticipation of their wedding by the water at Port Jefferson.

4. Formal Family & Bridal Party Photos

• If you opted for a first look and are not getting married in a house of worship, formal photos with the bridal party and family will typically take place before the ceremony.

• If your ceremony is in a religious setting, family and bridal party photos are usually taken immediately after the ceremony.

• These portraits capture the most important people in your life and ensure that everyone is included in your wedding album.

  
  
  
  

5. The Ceremony

The ceremony is primarily documented in a candid, documentary style, focusing on genuine emotions and key moments. After the ceremony, you may choose to greet guests as they exit the church, though this can take a substantial amount of time. Next, portraits can be taken inside the church, including family and bridal party photos. If you didn't do a first look, these photos will need to be taken at this time. If the weather is nice, consider capturing a few outdoor shots near the church as well.

The bride and groom share a romantic kiss during their outdoor wedding ceremony at the Water View in Port Jefferson, surrounded by lush greenery and joyful guests.

6. Post-Ceremony Portraits

If you’re having a church wedding, there is often a gap between the ceremony and cocktail hour. This is an excellent opportunity to take additional portraits at a scenic location such as a park or botanical garden.

A joyful bridal party captures a moment of celebration at Russos on the Bay, with the bride and groom surrounded by their elegantly dressed entourage.

7. Cocktail Hour Photography

If you didn’t do a first look, the bridal party, family photos, and bridal portraits will need to be taken during cocktail hour. Your photographer will work efficiently to ensure you still have time to enjoy part of the reception's opening festivities.

8. The Reception

The reception is all about celebration, and the photography during this time is primarily documentary-style, capturing:

• The couple's grand entrance.

• The first dance and parent dances.

• Cake cutting and toasts.

• Candid moments of guests enjoying the evening.

During dinner, many photographers take the couple outside for stunning night portraits. If you’re interested, this is also a great time for a dramatic champagne spray shot.

Bride and groom capture a fun, candid selfie at their wedding celebration at Russos on the Bay, with the groom sporting playful heart-shaped sunglasses.

9. The Grand Exit

Depending on your venue and local laws, you may have the option to do a sparkler exit, which makes for a fantastic grand finale to your wedding album.

Final Thoughts

Every wedding is unique, and your photography timeline should reflect your vision for the day. Consulting with your photographer will help you optimize your schedule, ensuring the best use of time while capturing stunning memories that will last a lifetime.

New York Wedding Photographer - George Pompilio Photography