How Much Time to Schedule for Wedding Photos?



One of the top questions I get from my couples is: “How much time should we set aside for wedding photos?”


Excellent question!


Because here’s the thing—your wedding day will absolutely fly by, and the last thing you want is to feel rushed or stressed about capturing those special moments.


Let’s clarify right off the bat: we’re talking about bridal party and couples’ portraits here, not your entire day’s photography timeline. These are the shots you’ll frame, send to your grandma, and stare at lovingly for decades. So, let’s get it right!


Click here if you're looking for how much time to schedule for wedding day family formal photos.

A wedding party poses together outdoors against golden sunlight at a rustic venue with a wooden fence.

The Magic Number: 2 Hours


For traditional couple and bridal party photos, I recommend budgeting 2 hours into your wedding day timeline.


Why?


It gives us plenty of time to get all the must-have shots without feeling like we’re speed-running through your special day. Plus, who doesn’t want a little breathing room?


That said, there are a few variables that can shift this recommendation:


  • Travel Time: If you’re heading to multiple photo locations or have a 20-minute drive to that dreamy flower-filled ravine, we’ll need to factor that in.


  • Bridal Party Size: A tiny bridal party of four is way quicker to photograph than a squad of 12. (Because let’s be real—herding a big bridal party is like trying to wrangle a dozen cats in heels. Someone’s always fixing their hair, grabbing a snack, or disappearing for a bathroom break!)


Wedding party poses in street intersection with mountain backdrop in Banff National Park on cloudy day.

Breaking It Down


Here’s how I usually suggest splitting up that 2-hour window:


  • 45 Minutes: Fun, candid, and classic shots with the whole wedding crew. This is where we get all the group photos, bridal party poses, and those goofy moments that remind you why you picked these people to stand by your side. (Pro tip: Assign someone to be the snack-and-tissue wrangler for emergencies!)


  • 45 Minutes: Just the two of you. This is your moment to shine! Relax, soak in the fact that you just got married, and let your love sparkle. These are the dreamy shots that scream couple goals and deserve a prime spot on your walls.


  • 30-Minute Cushion: Think of this as your safety net. Running behind? No problem, we’ve got extra time. Guests starting to arrive early? You can use this time to say hello. Or, better yet, grab a quick drink and breathe. Trust me—having a little buffer makes all the difference.
A group of bridesmaids in burgundy dresses holding purple floral bouquets laugh together against snow-capped mountains.

What Happens If You’re Short on Time?


Let’s say you’re working with a super tight timeline—what can you realistically expect?


Can we do all the bridal party photos and a few couple’s shots in 15 minutes? Technically, yes. But don’t expect magic. You’ll get just the essentials, with maybe 10–12 photos total. There won’t be time for those swoon-worthy, creative poses or intimate moments that make you tear up every time you look at them.


The bottom line? The more time you give your photographer, the more photos you’ll get—and the more relaxed and enjoyable the experience will be.


Still unsure about how much time you’ll need? Don’t hesitate to ask your photographer for advice. Every wedding is unique, and we’re pros at helping you figure out a timeline that works for your specific vision.

Three people in suits sharing a moment of laughter while holding drinks against a scenic mountain backdrop in winter.

Final Thoughts


At the end of the day, your bridal party and couple’s portraits are about capturing you—your love, your joy, your people.


Whether you’re working with a full two hours or squeezing things into a tighter window, the key is to communicate with your photographer and prioritize what matters most to you.


With a little planning (and maybe a touch of flexibility), we’ll create magic together. And trust me, when you look back at those photos, you’ll be so glad you made the time.


May the odds be ever in your favour,

A dark rectangular shape against a black background appears as a solid silhouette.

Someone in lace wedding dress holds a photography guide book featuring mountain landscapes and golden retrievers.
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