The Ultimate Wedding Photography Timeline Guide for Couples in Quebec

 Crafting the Perfect Wedding Photography Timeline: Expert Insights from a PROFESSIONAL Wedding Photographer

Planning the Perfect Wedding Day Photo Schedule

As seasoned wedding photographers based in Montreal, we know just how overwhelming planning can feel. That’s why at Mandy & Randy Weddings, we go beyond just taking pictures — we help you craft a seamless, stress-free experience from start to finish. One of the best ways to ensure your big day goes off without a hitch is by creating a well-planned wedding photography timeline.

Below, we’ve laid out the ideal wedding day timeline for photography, optimized for both stunning visuals and a smooth flow. Whether you’re planning a full-day celebration or something more intimate, this guide will help you stay organized and relaxed — while making time for every important moment.

 Morning: Getting Ready + Details

Detail Shots – Dress, Rings, Accessories, Invitations

• Time Needed: 20–30 minutes

• Best Time: Morning (Before prep photos)

• Location: Bridal suite or hotel room

We start the day by capturing elegant flat lays and close-ups of your rings, dress, shoes, perfume, and invitations. These shots set the tone for your photo gallery and highlight your unique style.

Getting Ready Photos

Candid Moments Before the Ceremony

• Time Needed: 60–90 minutes

• Best Time: Late morning to early afternoon

• Location: Bridal suite or groom’s quarters

This is when the emotional, behind-the-scenes magic happens — the bride with her bridesmaids, the groom with his groomsmen, and candid family moments. We recommend allocating enough time here, especially if the couple is getting ready in separate locations (factor in travel).

Early Afternoon

First Look & Wedding Party Portraits

• Time Needed: 20–30 minutes

• Best Time: 1 to 2 hours before the ceremony

• Location: Private outdoor area

If you're planning a first look, it offers a beautiful, intimate moment before the whirlwind begins — and allows for more flexibility in your timeline later.

Wedding Party Photos

Celebrating with Your Closest Crew

• Time Needed: 30–45 minutes

• Best Time: After first look or ceremony

• Location: Near ceremony or portrait location

We capture full group portraits, individual party members, and creative, editorial-style shots.

Ceremony + Family Formals

The Heart of Your Wedding Day

• Time Needed: 30–60 minutes

• Best Time: Late afternoon

• Location: Church, outdoor venue, or ceremony space

We document everything from guest arrivals to your walk down the aisle, vows, first kiss, and joyful exit.

Extended Family & Guest Photos

Capturing the Joy of Togetherness

• Time Needed: 30 minutes (if desired)

Optional but recommended if you want memories with all your loved ones. Let guests know in advance to stay nearby post-ceremony.

Golden Hour & Reception

Couple Portraits / Golden Hour Session

• Time Needed: 30–45 minutes

• Best Time: 1 hour before sunset

• Location: Scenic spot near the venue

This is the magic moment. Soft, flattering light, intimate vibes, and stunning backdrops.

Reception & Venue Detail Photos

Capturing the Atmosphere Before the Party Starts

• Time Needed: 15–20 minutes (during cocktail hour)

We document the reception decor — the florals, place settings, cake, signage — all before guests arrive.

Evening: Party Time

Reception Coverage: From First Dances to Final Cheers

• Events Captured:

  • Couple’s grand entrance

  • First dance

  • Toasts and speeches

  • Parent dances

  • Dinner and candid moments

  • Cake cutting

  • Party/dancing

  • Sparkler send-off (if planned)

Our documentary-style coverage captures every moment — laughter, tears, and wild dance floor moves.

 Sample 7-Hour Wedding Photography Timeline

Perfect for: Smaller weddings, tight schedules, or no travel between locations.

1:30 PM – Photographer Arrives
Detail photos + bride & groom prep coverage

2:30 PM – First Look / Portraits
Couple portraits or prep for ceremony

3:30 PM – Ceremony
Full ceremony coverage + guest moments

4:00 PM – Family Formals
Immediate + extended family photos

4:45 PM – Couple Portraits
Golden hour (season-dependent)

5:30 PM – Reception Begins
Venue details, cocktail hour, grand entrance

6:30 PM – Key Reception Events
First dance, toasts, cake, dancing

8:30 PM – End of Coverage

 Sample 9-Hour Wedding Photography Timeline

Perfect for: Full-day coverage with multiple locations, larger families, or extra portrait time.

12:30 PM – Photographer Arrives
Details + bride/groom prep in separate locations

2:00 PM – First Look + Couple Portraits Emotional first look and creative shots

3:00 PM – Wedding Party Photos
Full group, bridesmaids/groomsmen, travel if needed

4:00 PM – Ceremony
Guest arrival, vows, walk down the aisle

5:00 PM – Family + Guest Formals
Organized portraits with all key family members

6:00 PM – Cocktail Hour + Decor
Venue details before guests enter

6:45 PM – Golden Hour Session
Soft-light portraits of the newlyweds

7:30 PM – Reception Coverage
Entrance, speeches, first dances, dinner

9:30 PM – Photographer Wraps Up
Dancing, night shots, or send-off

 Every Wedding Is Unique

Choosing the Right Wedding Photography Package for Your Day

No two weddings are alike. Whether you're planning a micro-wedding or a full-scale celebration, we’ll tailor your timeline to suit your specific vision and logistics. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.

We offer wedding photography packages ranging from 4 to 12 hours of coverage. A 4-hour package is perfect for intimate elopements, city hall weddings, or couples who only need key moments like the ceremony, family formals, and a short portrait session. A 12-hour package, on the other hand, gives you full-day coverage — from morning preparations through to the final dance — ideal for larger weddings or couples who don’t want to miss a single moment.

If building a timeline feels overwhelming, we’re happy to help! A photographer who helps you plan your day (and not just show up with a camera) is worth their weight in gold. We’ll work with you to make sure the schedule flows smoothly, so you can actually enjoy your day.

Looking for more help? Download our free guide to finding the perfect wedding photographer — it’s suggests key questions to ask and qualities to look for before you book.