Behind the Scenes: My Wedding Day Photography Workflow

How I Capture Your Wedding Day

Ever wondered what goes into photographing a wedding? Let me take you behind the scenes of a typical wedding day and share how I ensure every precious moment is captured beautifully.

Pre-Wedding Preparation

What Happens Before I Arrive:

• Equipment check the night before (two camera bodies, multiple lenses, batteries charged)
• Memory card formatting with backup cards ready
• Timeline review so I know exactly when and where to be
• Location scouting (if possible) to identify best photo spots
• Shot list confirmation with couple’s must-have photos
• Backup equipment packed because preparation prevents panic
• Communication with couple about any last-minute changes

The Wedding Day Timeline

Getting Ready (2-3 hours before ceremony)

I arrive while you’re getting ready to capture the anticipation and excitement. This includes:

• Detail shots (dress, shoes, rings, invitation, flowers)
• Candid moments with bridesmaids/groomsmen
• Hair and makeup finals
• Mom helping with dress
• Dad’s reaction seeing his daughter
• Groom getting ready with his guys

Equipment: 35mm and 85mm lenses for versatility in smaller spaces

First Look or Pre-Ceremony Portraits

If you’re doing a first look, this is often the most emotional part of the day. I position myself to capture the genuine reaction while staying invisible to the moment.

Tip: I always scout the location beforehand to find the best light and background.

Ceremony (30-60 minutes)

This is where experience matters. I know exactly where to be for:

• Processional down the aisle
• Exchanging vows and rings
• First kiss as married couple
• Recessional and celebration

Equipment: 70-200mm lens to stay unobtrusive while capturing intimate moments

Formal Portraits (30-45 minutes)

I work efficiently through family groupings and wedding party photos, getting everyone back to cocktail hour quickly while ensuring we get all the important combinations.

Strategy: I provide a shot list template beforehand so we don’t miss anyone important.

Reception Coverage

Throughout dinner and dancing, I’m capturing:

• Grand entrance
• First dance, parent dances
• Toasts and speeches
• Cake cutting
• Candid guest interactions
• Dance floor moments
• All the in-between moments that tell your story

My Equipment Kit

A typical wedding day, I’m carrying:

• Two professional camera bodies (backup is essential)
• 4-5 lenses: 24mm, 35mm, 85mm, 70-200mm, 50mm
• Multiple flash units with diffusers
• 32+ GB of memory cards (I use multiple cards as backup)
• Extra batteries for everything
• Cleaning supplies and emergency repair kit

After the Wedding

Post-Processing Workflow:

1. Immediate backup - All photos backed up to three locations
2. Culling: Reviewing 2,000+ images to select the best 600-800
3. Editing: Color correction, exposure adjustment, artistic enhancement
4. Gallery creation: Uploading to beautiful, private online gallery
5. Sneak peeks: 10-15 favorites within 48 hours
6. Full gallery delivery: 3-4 weeks

What Makes a Great Wedding Photo?

It’s not just about technical perfection. The best photos capture:

• Genuine emotion - real laughter, real tears, real joy
• Authentic moments - the unscripted, unexpected instances
• Beautiful light - I’m always chasing the best natural light
• Meaningful connections - the looks between people who love each other
• Your unique story - what makes your wedding different from every other

My Philosophy

I believe wedding photography should be artistic without being intrusive. I blend into your day, capturing moments as they naturally unfold while also creating beautiful portraits that feel authentic to who you are.

Questions Couples Often Ask

Q: Will you stay for the whole reception? A: Yes! I’m there until the moment you specify, whether that’s cake cutting, first hour of dancing, or sparkler exit.

Q: What if something goes wrong with your equipment? A: I carry complete backup equipment for exactly this reason. In 8+ years, equipment has never caused me to miss a moment.

Q: Can we see some photos the same day? A: You’ll get sneak peeks within 48 hours! The full gallery takes 3-4 weeks due to the detailed editing process.

Ready to have your wedding day captured with care and artistry? Let’s talk about your vision!