Scheduling Your Wedding Ceremony with Your Photos in Mind
You’ve booked your dream wedding venue and now it’s time to think about what the best time of day to say “I do” is. This may seem like a pretty straight forward thing to decide but there are several variables to think about before you set that ceremony time in stone.
Keeping your wedding photos in mind, timing plays a crucial role in ensuring that you get the best photos possible. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when scheduling your wedding ceremony time.
Golden Hour Magic - One of the most coveted times for wedding photography is during the golden hour, this is the period before sunset when the light is soft, warm, and generally the most glattering. Consider scheduling your ceremony to coincide with this magical time of day to capture breathtaking outdoor photographs with that amazing golden light.
Avoid Harsh Midday Sun - On the flip side, midday sunlight can be harsh and unflattering, casting unattractive shadows and causing some squinting action, depend on what direction you’ll be standing at the altar. Opting for mid-morning or late afternoon ceremony can help mitigate these issues. If a midday outdoor ceremony is a must, consider providing shaded area or tents to shield you and guest from the harsh sun.
Consider the Season - The season in which you’re getting married can significantly impact the available natural light and weather conditions. For example, winter ceremonies generally have shorter daylight hours, while summer weddings may contend with intense heat and bright sunlight. As a rule of thumb, if you’re getting married in the spring or summer months, schedule your ceremony later in the day. And if you’re getting married in the winter months, be sure to schedule your ceremony earlier. Pro tip: If you do get married in the winter, consider having a “first look” to ensure your couple’s portraits are captured when the sun is still out.
Account for Travel Time - If you plan to take bridal party portraits or couple shots at multiple locations, be sure to account for travel time when scheduling your ceremony. Factor in the distance between venues, traffic conditions, and any potential delays to ensure a seamless transition between locations. Pro tip: If your getting ready location is separate from your ceremony location, try to secure travel for you and your wedding party together to make sure everyone gets to the ceremony on time.
I hope this helps you in your wedding planning process!