How Long Each Wedding Photo Segment Really Takes
If you’ve ever looked at a wedding timeline and thought, “There’s no way we can fit all that in,” you’re not alone. Knowing how long each part of the photography process actually takes can make planning your day feel way more doable — and way less stressful.
Here’s a realistic breakdown of how much time I typically set aside for each photo segment on a wedding day, based on hundreds of real timelines.
Detail Photos: 30 Minutes to 1 Hour
This one depends on how many details you have and how styled you want them to be.
If you’re dreaming of a delicate flat lay with invitations, heirlooms, jewelry, and ribbons, plan for closer to an hour. If you’re just wanting a few simple photos of your rings, bouquet, shoes, and dress — 30 minutes usually does the trick.
It’s one of the slower, more intentional parts of the day, and I love easing into things here while everyone’s still getting ready.
Getting Ready Photos (Bride & Bridesmaids): 30 Minutes to 1 Hour
The actual “getting ready” photos — buttoning the dress, putting on jewelry, adjusting the veil — only take about 10–15 minutes.
But in reality, this time block is a bit of a puzzle. You’ll have a few minutes here and there between hair and makeup touch-ups, and I like to leave plenty of room for candids and emotional moments with your bridesmaids or family.
Getting Ready Photos (Groom & Groomsmen): 5–10 Minutes
I lean on the simpler side here. Most grooms aren’t looking for a long, drawn-out photo process — a few quick shots of tying ties, adjusting cufflinks, and laughing with the guys usually covers it perfectly.
First Looks with Parents: 10–15 Minutes Each
Whether it’s a father-daughter or mother-son moment, I always leave 10–15 minutes. It doesn’t usually take that long, but a little wiggle room helps in case of tears, hugs, or a quick touch-up before heading out for portraits.
First Look Between Bride & Groom: 30 Minutes
The first look is one of the most emotional and meaningful parts of the day, and it deserves time to breathe.
Most couples only need 10–15 minutes for the first look itself, but I always build in extra time so it never feels rushed. If we finish early, that just means we can start portraits right away while emotions are still fresh.
Bridal Party Photos: 15–30 Minutes
This depends on your bridal party size and vibe.
If you’re going for formal, traditional poses, 15 minutes usually works. If you want fun, creative shots (or individual photos with each bridesmaid and groomsman), plan for closer to 30.
I usually photograph the full group first, then bridesmaids, then groomsmen — keeping it quick, organized, and lighthearted.
Family Photos: 30 Minutes
I always overestimate here. Family photos rarely take the full half hour, but I’d much rather have too much time than not enough.
This is also where having a pre-planned shot list helps tremendously. Once we’re done, that extra time goes straight into couple portraits — and no one ever complains about more photos of the two of you!
Couple’s Photos: 30 Minutes to 1 Hour (Spread Out)
Every couple is different. Some want to keep portraits short and sweet; others could happily spend an hour wandering around with their photographer (I’m always down for that!).
I usually aim for a minimum of 30 minutes, but I love when we can sprinkle in extra portrait time throughout the day — after the first look, post-ceremony, and especially at sunset.
Ceremony: 30 Minutes
This one depends on your officiant and the type of ceremony, but 30 minutes is a solid average. Short and sweet ceremonies are wonderful — it just means more time to celebrate afterward.
Reception: 2 Hours (or However Long You Want)
This one’s entirely up to you.
Most couples plan about two hours of reception coverage, which typically includes introductions, dinner, toasts, first dances, and open dance floor photos.
After that, photos tend to be similar groups of people dancing — so unless you’re planning a grand exit, two hours is usually plenty of coverage.
Final Thoughts
The key to a smooth wedding day isn’t cramming everything in — it’s giving each part the breathing room it deserves. Build in time for the moments that matter most to you, and you’ll end up with a gallery full of genuine, unhurried memories.