The Wedding Photography Timeline Mistakes Photographers Make (and How to Fix Them)

When it comes to photographing a wedding, you can have the best gear, the most jaw-dropping portfolio, and clients who adore you—but if you’re making mistakes with your timeline, the whole day feels like you’re just playing catch-up.

And friend, I say that with love… because I’ve been there.

Over the years, I’ve learned that most of the chaos on a wedding day doesn’t come from tricky lighting or camera issues—it comes from timeline mistakes. So let’s talk about the biggest wedding photography timeline mistakes photographers make (and how to plan wedding timelines the right way).

Mistake #1: Letting the Couple Build the Wedding Photography Timeline Alone

Your couples don’t know how long photos actually take—and they shouldn’t have to! But if you’re handing the reins over completely, chances are they’re underestimating every part of the day, and you’re left scrambling.

The fix: Be part of the planning process. Bring your knowledge to the table and help build a realistic wedding day schedule for photographers that supports the flow of the day and leaves space for breathing room. Even if a wedding planner is involved, your input matters.

Mistake #2: Not Building in Buffer Time

Spoiler alert: nothing ever runs exactly on time. Hair and makeup run late. Uncle Bob goes missing before family photos. Someone always needs “just five more minutes.”

The fix: Add buffer time everywhere. I’m talking 10–15 extra minutes for getting ready, extra cushion before the ceremony, and a little grace time after family photos. You’ll feel way less stressed when things run late—and you’ll still stay on schedule.

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Mistake #3: Cramming All the Photos Into One Time Block

One of the most common wedding photography timeline mistakes? Trying to squeeze every single photo—family, wedding party, and couple’s portraits—into a 45-minute window. It’s a recipe for rushed photos and cranky clients.

The fix: Break it up! Try to schedule family photos right after the ceremony, wedding party photos earlier in the day, and golden hour portraits during cocktail hour or sunset. It’s not just easier on you—it’s an overall better client experience, too.

Mistake #4: Forgetting About Your Needs

If your timeline doesn’t give you a chance to breathe, drink some water, or shove a granola bar into your face before the reception… it’s not working. Especially if you’re navigating chronic illness or physical fatigue, this isn’t just about comfort—it’s about sustainability.

The fix: Build your breaks in on purpose. I always make sure there is a 10–15 minute window between portraits and reception coverage so I can reset. And trust me—it makes a huge difference in how I feel by the end of the night.

Stop Making Wedding Photography Timeline Mistakes with My Go-To Timeline Template

If you’re reading this like “okay, Sandra, but how do I actually build the damn timeline?”—I’ve got you. I’m re-launching my free wedding photography timeline spreadsheet at the end of May. It’s the exact tool I have used in my own business for years, and it’s made to be simple, editable, and stress-free.

Want a heads up when it drops? Make sure you’re on the email list.

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More blog posts I know you’ll love:

How I Approach A Wedding Day & The Healing Power of CARBS!

My Endometriosis Toolkit

Self Care For Wedding Photographers with Chronic Illnesses