What to Expect from Your Wedding Photographer on the Day of Your Wedding
Planning a wedding in Austin is exciting, emotional, and a little overwhelming. Between finalizing timelines and crossing off to-dos, you might find yourself wondering: What exactly will my photographer be doing all day? As an Austin wedding photographer, we’ve worked with hundreds of couples—and we know the best wedding photos happen when you know what to expect.
So let’s walk through what your photographer will actually be doing from the moment they arrive to the last dance of the night—and how we help turn your wedding day into a gallery full of timeless, emotion-filled images.
Getting Ready: Capturing the Calm Before the Celebration
Most wedding photographers arrive while you’re still getting ready. We start by documenting the environment—your venue, your dress, accessories, florals, vow books, invitation suite, and other important details. This is also the perfect time for candid moments: bridesmaids laughing together, the groom adjusting his cufflinks, or a quiet prayer before it all begins.
If you’re doing a first look or private vow exchange, this is the point when we’ll help coordinate it—making sure the setting, lighting, and timing are just right without interrupting the intimacy of the moment.
Ceremony Coverage: Every Emotion, Every Angle
During the ceremony, your photographer blends into the background to document the raw emotion of the moment: the tearful walk down the aisle, your partner’s reaction, the exchange of rings, and the kiss that seals it all. We coordinate with your planner or officiant beforehand to know exactly where we can move and when, ensuring we capture every angle respectfully and beautifully.
Whether you're getting married in an Austin chapel, a rooftop downtown, or a Hill Country ranch, we’ll work with the space to frame the moment in the best way possible.
Family & Wedding Party Portraits: Organized and Easy
After the ceremony, we’ll help gather your family and wedding party for formal photos. We know how to keep this process smooth, organized, and quick—so no one’s stuck smiling for 45 minutes while the reception kicks off without them. If you’ve sent us a family shot list ahead of time, this part runs even smoother.
Couple Portraits: Golden Hour & Quiet Moments Together
One of the most loved parts of the day is your portrait time as a couple. Depending on the timeline, we’ll find a beautiful natural light moment—often during golden hour—and step away for 20–30 minutes of relaxed, guided portrait time. These are the images that end up on your walls and in your album, so we want them to reflect you: natural, joy-filled, and romantic.
If you’re getting married in Austin, we love incorporating the landscape—whether it’s a city skyline shot, a quiet walk under oak trees, or dramatic Hill Country views in the background.
Reception: Candid, Joyful, and Full of Life
Once the party starts, our job is to capture it all—from the toast your best friend gives, to your first dance as a married couple, to grandma breaking it down on the dance floor. We photograph the details of your décor, food, cake, guests, and all the in-between moments you might miss in the flurry of the celebration.
Whether you’ve got a mariachi band, a photo booth, or a surprise choreographed dance, we’re there for it—and we stay alert for every real, unscripted moment of joy.
What Sets Us Apart as Austin Wedding Photographers
Our approach is documentary at heart—with a healthy dose of editorial. We photograph your day as it happens, with gentle guidance for portraits and a keen eye for lighting and composition. With years of experience in Austin’s wedding scene, we’ve worked at nearly every type of venue, and we know how to adapt no matter the weather, timeline, or lighting situation.
We’re also professionals who care deeply. You can trust that when we walk in the door on your wedding day, we’re there to serve you and tell your story well.
Ready to book your Austin wedding photographer?
We’d love to document your story with care and creativity. Contact us here to get started.
FAQs
Q: How long will our wedding photographer be with us on the day of the wedding?
A: Most couples book 8–10 hours of coverage, which usually includes getting ready through the major reception events.
Q: Do you provide a second photographer?
A: Yes! Many of our packages include a second photographer, especially for larger weddings or if you want coverage of both partners getting ready in different locations.
Q: Will you help with our photo timeline?
A: Absolutely. We work closely with your planner or coordinator to build a timeline that ensures great lighting and a smooth flow for portraits and events.
Q: What kind of photos do you take—posed or candid?
A: Both! We take a documentary-style approach, capturing real moments as they unfold, but we also guide you during portrait time for natural, flattering photos.
Q: What if it rains on our wedding day?
A: We always come prepared with a rain plan and extra lighting. Some of the most romantic photos happen in the rain, and we’ll make it magical no matter what.
Q: How soon will we receive our photos?
A: Most galleries are delivered within 4–6 weeks, and we always send a sneak peek within a few days to get you excited.
Q: Can you photograph at any Austin wedding venue?
A: Yes! We’ve worked at dozens of venues across Austin and are familiar with the layouts, lighting, and best portrait spots for many of them.
Q: Do you offer engagement sessions?
A: Yes! We offer standalone engagement sessions or bundled ones with your wedding photography. It’s a great way to get comfortable in front of the camera.
Q: What’s your editing style?
A: Our editing is timeless, romantic, and true to color. We avoid trendy filters so your photos still look beautiful 20 years from now.
Q: How do we book you?
A: Reach out via our contact form, and we’ll walk you through the process. Once your date is confirmed and retainer is paid, you’re officially booked!
