When you're planning a wedding, one of the biggest questions you’ll face is this: “What time should everything actually happen?”
As a full-time San Antonio wedding photographer, we’ve seen how much smoother (and more joyful!) the day flows when there’s a timeline that balances preparation, celebration, and beautiful photos.
Whether you’re having a big Catholic ceremony, an elopement, or a golden-hour outdoor wedding, this guide will help you create a timeline that sets you up for success—and stunning photos.
🕰 Why Your Wedding Timeline Matters
A solid wedding timeline means:
- No feeling rushed (or bored)
- Better lighting for portraits
- Time to breathe between events
- A relaxed, photo-friendly environment
- A smoother flow for your guests and vendors
If your photographer is guiding the timeline (like we do), you’ll know when and where each photo is happening, so you’re never left guessing.
🧡 Sample Wedding Day Timeline (With a First Look)
This is one of our most popular timelines for weddings in San Antonio:
📸 12:00 PM – Photographer Arrives / Getting Ready Begins
We’ll start capturing details like your dress, rings, invites, and candid getting-ready moments.
👗 1:00 PM – Hair & Makeup Finishing Touches
We’ll grab final glam shots + robe photos with your girls!
🧑🤝🧑 1:30 PM – Groom Gets Ready / Portraits
The guys are up next—suit, tie, cheers, and portraits.
🥲 2:15 PM – First Look
Private first look between the couple (optional but recommended for lighting + timeline ease)
📷 2:30 PM – Couple’s Portraits
Golden images of just the two of you, taken before the ceremony so you’re not rushed later.
👰♀️🤵♂️ 3:00 PM – Wedding Party Photos
Full group, individual pairings, and candids with your best people.
🧡 3:30 PM – Family Photos
If your family is available pre-ceremony, we’ll knock these out early.
⛪ 4:30 PM – Ceremony
This is it! Time to get married.
🎉 5:00 PM – Cocktail Hour + Sunset Portraits
You mingle while we sneak you away for glowy golden-hour portraits.
🥂 6:00 PM – Reception Begins
Grand entrance, dinner, speeches, cake cutting, dances, and party time!
✨ 10:00 PM – Exit / Photographer Wraps
Sparklers, cold sparks, bubbles—whatever send-off you dreamed up!
☀️ What If You Don’t Want a First Look?
No problem! Your timeline just shifts slightly, with most couple and group photos moved after the ceremony. Just be sure to:
- Schedule at least 30–45 minutes post-ceremony for family and couple portraits
- Plan for sunset photos if possible (we’ll help you time it based on the season)
- Add buffer time to avoid delays cutting into reception coverage
📸 Tips for a Photo-Friendly Timeline
- Golden Hour: The last 1–2 hours before sunset are ideal for romantic couple photos
- Buffer Time: Build in 10–15 minutes between events—it’s always needed
- Tell Everyone: Share your timeline with wedding party + vendors
- Trust Your Photographer: We’ll let you know how long each section needs based on lighting, venue, and your priorities
🗓 What to Ask Your Photographer When Building Your Timeline
- Do you help with the timeline? (We do!)
- How much time do you need for couple + group photos?
- What time should the ceremony start for the best lighting?
- Do we need a second shooter for our wedding size?
- What if we’re running late—how do you adjust?
Final Thoughts
The best wedding days feel easy, natural, and full of joy—not because everything is perfect, but because everything has been planned with care. A well-built timeline lets you soak in the day without stress and ensures every important moment is captured beautifully.
As your San Antonio wedding photographer, we’ll help you build a timeline that brings out the best of your day—from quiet moments to big celebrations.
Need help building your timeline?
Contact us here and we’ll talk through your day from start to finish.
FAQs: wedding photographer san antonio
Q: Do I need a timeline if I’m eloping or having a small wedding?
A: Yes! Even micro weddings benefit from a timeline to ensure smooth transitions and great lighting.
Q: How long should I set aside for couple’s portraits?
A: We recommend 30–45 minutes—more if we’re exploring a second location.
Q: What time should the ceremony be in San Antonio for golden hour photos?
A: It depends on the season, but starting your ceremony 1–2 hours before sunset usually works best.
Q: Can you help build our timeline?
A: Absolutely. We do this for all our couples and adjust based on your unique day and venue.
Q: What happens if we’re running late?
A: We always build in buffer time and adjust calmly. We’re used to real life unfolding!
Q: What’s the benefit of a first look?
A: It saves time later and lets you enjoy more of the cocktail hour. It also gives you a quiet, emotional moment together before the ceremony.
Q: Do I need a second shooter for a wedding in San Antonio?
A: It depends on your guest count and layout, but we’ll guide you based on your venue and needs.
Q: Should I do all portraits before the ceremony?
A: If you’re doing a first look, yes! It makes the rest of the day flow much more smoothly.
Q: How long do family photos usually take?
A: About 20–30 minutes, depending on group size and if everyone’s on time and organized.
Q: Can we customize the timeline?
A: 100%. Every wedding is different, and we build it around your story and schedule.