session details, tips, and answers
wedding day
I know there are countless things that go into a wedding day and make it completely unique. I also know that the planning and even your wedding day can come with a lot of stress. But it doesn't have to be that way!
My goal is to not only be your photographer but an extra hand to help you through this Experience.
Peruse this page and find tips – from planning to wedding day action items – that will reduce your stress and ultimately elevate your wedding day photos.
the experience
01.
Sage & Vine Aesthetics (med spa)
Aesthetic Center of Richmond Dermatology (aesthetic treatments)
Haven Room (massage, facial)
Melt Parlor (wax, spray tans)
wedding pamper
Level Up Entertainment
Black Tie Entertainment
The Masters of the Ceremony
dj/bands
Louisa's Homemades
Fat Rabbit Cakes
cakes/desserts
EAT Catering
Groovin' Gourmets
catering/bar
Rent Equip
Paisley and Jade
Classic Party Rentals
rentals
Radiant Reflections
Haley Rose Beauty
Ashley Sanchez Beauty
Captivating Complexions
Blushtones & Flawless
hair/makeup
Mark Yeattes
Michael Lemley Films
videographers
Fleure Studio
Fleuressence
Field Floral
florals
Faye Street Studios
Lauren Perry Studio
paper/invites
Fete Du Jour Events
The Hive Wedding Collective
Our Curated Design
Emerald Events By Nilsa
planners
a collection of vendors I've worked with and recommend
vendors
02.
the first look timeline ⟶
the traditional timeline ⟶
Planning a wedding day timeline is highly encouraged. It keeps your vendors in-line and adds a layer of time-security to your day.
As we approach your wedding day, I will reach out via email to discuss your wedding day timeline to ensure that I understand your priorities.
Whether you're wanting to do a first look or go the traditional route, I've gathered two sample timelines to guide your planning:
timeline
03.
9: Hair and makeup begins
1: Detail photos, finishing touches of getting ready
2:30: Bride gets into dress; Groom puts on suit jacket/tie/boutonniere
3:30: Photos of Bride and Bridesmaids
4: Photos of Groom + Groomsmen
4:30: Photographers take ceremony and reception details
5:30: Ceremony
6: Ceremony ends and officiant announces family to stick around for photos
6–6:30: Family formals
6:30–6:40: Entire wedding party
6:40–7:15: Newlywed photos
7:30: Bride and Groom introduced to reception
7:35: First dance
7:40: Toast(s)
7:45: Dinner served
8:30: Cake cutting
8:35: Father/Daughter dance; Mother/Son dance
8:45: Open dance floor
10: Send-off
the traditional timeline:
9: Hair and makeup begins
1: Detail photos, finishing touches of getting ready
2:30: Bride gets into dress; Groom puts on suit jacket/tie/boutonniere
3: First Look with Bride and Groom
3:15: Wedding Party finishes getting ready
3:30–4:30: Wedding party portraits
4:30: Photographers shoot ceremony/reception details
5:30: Ceremony
6:Ceremony ends and officiant announces family to stick around for photos
6–6:30: Family formals
6–7:30: Cocktail Hour
6:30 –7:15: Newlywed photos
7:30: Bride and Groom introduced to reception
7:35: First dance
7:40: Toast(s)
7:45:Dinner served
8:30: Cake cutting
8:35: Father/Daughter dance; Mother/Son dance
8:45: Open dance floor
10: Send-off
the first look timeline:
BUDGET TIME TO DO NOTHING BUT ENJOY YOUR DAY
give your family a time that's 15-minutes early
add 15-minute buffer times at the big events
communicate time details to hair/makeup artists
pick your ceremony time 1st then plan around it
make the most of your timeline by considering these tips
timeline tips
04.
Bride with Mom
Bride with Dad
Bride and Groom with Bride's Parents
Above group + Bride’s Siblings with Spouses and Kids
Above group + Bride’s Grandparents Set 1
Above group + Bride’s Grandparents Set 2
Bride + Groom + sets of Parents
Groom with Mom
Groom with Dad
Bride and Groom with Groom’s Parents
Above group + Groom’s Siblings with Spouses and Kids
Above group + Groom’s Grandparents Set 1
Above group + Groom’s Grandparents Set 1
sample family photo list:
Family photos are so important, especially on a day when two families become one! Creating a list of must-have family portraits will ensure I'm not missing any photos of important people.
I encourage you to bring a few printed copies to reference and assigning a family member, friend, or bridesmaid to make sure each person is present for portraits.
family photos
05.
any sentimental items
BOUQUET + BOUTONNIÈRE
vows + letters
invites + programs + menus
jewelry + accessories
rings
veil
his + her shoes
suit/tux with tie + pocket square
dress + dress hanger
wedding details that will be photographed
checklist
06.
You will need to decide this about 1-2 months before your wedding date, when we create the timeline together or when your wedding planner creates your timeline with you.
06. when do we decide if we need a first look?
This is just a reminder that wedding photos are sent 5-7 weeks after your wedding date. But YOU WILL receive about 40-60 wedding sneak peek photos a few days after your wedding!!
05. when should we expect our wedding photos?
My clients often text me photos of details they've collected, save the dates, engagement session outfits, etc. Feel free to reach out to my work phone at 804 664 2768. I respond promptly during business hours.
04. can i text you about changes?
We'll have a call 1-2 months before your wedding day to discuss your wedding timeline. We'll talk about everything from arrival time, to possible first looks, to exit times.
03. when do we create a wedding timeline together?
Please make sure the bride has ALL THREE rings ready for me to photograph during the getting ready time. Put a bridesmaids or a groomsmen in charge of handling the rings once I am done photographing them.
02. what do we do with the rings?
Grab your nearest amazon box, giant ziplock bag, or plastic container and throw all of your details in there! Have it ready for me at the beginning of your day for easy access for photos!
01. how should I get my details together?
Have a question? I've got an answer! And if you don't see your question here, please reach out via email: cs@cschmidtphoto.com
FAQs
08.