I’ve been a wedding photographer for almost a decade and curate a wedding timeline for almost all my couples, so here’s a real sample for nine hours of coverage with one photographer!
I love when couples lean into the experience of their wedding day. You’re only doing this once. It’s important to be soaking up every little moment with your favorite people. Katie and Yousef had this beautiful vision of an intimate celebration at a venue in Union Pier, Michigan. To say the least – they totally nailed it! With a thoughtful nine-hour timeline, they made sure we could capture not just the big moments but those sweet, little ones that really matter to them, too.
9 Hour Wedding Timeline Sample:
12:30 PM – coverage begins — grooms & groomsmen getting ready photos
12:45 PM – head to venue ~5 mins travel
12:50 PM – bridal detail photos
1:20 PM – bride getting dressed
1:25 PM – MOH putting veil on bride
1:45 PM – bride and groom first look, then couples portraits
2:30 PM – wedding party photos
3:15 PM – first look with bride and dad
4:15 PM – ceremony begins
4:40 PM – ceremony ends
4:55 PM – marriage license signed
5:00 PM – family formals in garden area/front porch
6:15 PM – reception begins followed by 3 speeches
6:30 PM – dinner is served – buffet style
6:50 PM – golden hour photos
7:14 PM – sun sets
7:50 PM – special dances
8:00 PM – open dance begins
8:45 PM – tentative get into new outfits
9:00 PM – entrance w new outfits
9:30 PM – coverage ends
As the day moved along, we made sure to include playful poses that felt natural and had movements that highlighted their personality. Dancing, twirling, and all that unfiltered fun brought realness to the frames. The light was just perfect that day, too. It added a warm glow to each shot that truly represented Katie and Yousef’s love story.
At the end of the day, it was about being present. Katie and Yousef embraced each moment. Their love, surrounded by family and friends, created a warm atmosphere. Every photo taken felt genuine and full of life. It’s a day they will remember through these photos forever. Michigan has many beautiful spots, but this wedding will always be special.
You’re dying to see the photos, right?
The couple expressed the importance of details, getting ready, candid ceremony photos, formal group photos with every single guest, and documenting the overall thrill of their day. With my help, we created this timeline together. Here’s how their story unfolded in the photos! You can even view their entire gallery – there’s a link below the images!
