THE PHOTO PLANNING GUIDEBOOK
a note from rachaeL:
This space was created to make planning for beautiful wedding photos feel easier and more organized. You’ll find guidance, templates, and timing references you can come back to anytime.
There’s no rush to complete everything at once. These tools are here to support you — when and if you need them.
How to use this guidebook...
Your wedding planner (if you're working with one - and we highly recommend it!) will lead the overall timeline and flow of the day, and I’ll work closely with them to ensure the photo portion feels seamless and stress-free.
Everything below is meant to:
Help you visualize timing
Keep family photos smooth and efficient
Make the photo experience feel calm, natural, and well-supported
Think of this simply as a reference — not a checklist.
family photo planning
Family photos are easiest when everyone knows what’s coming. This template helps us move efficiently while making sure the people most important to you are included.
You’re welcome to:
- Delete any groupings you don’t want
- Add any additional combinations that matter to you
- Include names for each grouping to help things run smoothly
Family photos can take place either before or after the ceremony, depending on the flow of your day.
*Helpful timing note:
Please allow 2 minutes per additional grouping. The sample list below typically takes approximately 30 minutes.
family photo template
Time: X:XX PM – X:XX PM
Location: ______________________
Desired photo location: ______________________
COUPLE + FAMILIES TOGETHER -
1. Couple with both families together
2. Couple with each partner’s immediate family
3. Couple with both sets of parents
4. Couple with siblings from both sides (including sibling-in-laws)
PARTNER 1 FAMILY -
(Partner 1 = example: bride's side)
1. Couple with Partner 1’s immediate family + grandparents
2. Couple with Partner 1’s immediate family
3. Couple with Partner 1’s parents
4. Partner 1 with parents
5. Partner 1 with each parent solo
6. Partner 1’s parents together
7. Partner 1 with grandparent(s)
8. Partner 1 with siblings
PARTNER 2 FAMILY -
(Partner 2 = example: groom's side)
1. Couple with Partner 2’s immediate family + grandparents
2. Couple with Partner 2’s immediate family
3. Couple with Partner 2’s parents
4. Partner 2 with parents
5. Partner 2 with each parent solo
6. Partner 2’s parents together
7. Partner 2 with grandparent(s)
8. Partner 2 with siblings
ADDITIONAL PHOTOS YOU MAY WISH TO INCLUDE:
- Couple with their officiant
- Couple with their extended families
portrait timing Guide
Every wedding day is different, but these timing ranges are helpful when building a well-paced timeline. Your planner will finalize the schedule, and I’m always happy to support with photo-specific guidance as needed.
First Look: ~10- 15 minutes
- add more time if you plan to read private vows or do a gift exchange
Couple Portraits: ~30–40 minutes
- budget at least 30 minutes to get photos that feel relaxed, natural, and never stiff
Wedding Party: ~30 minutes
- we know wedding parties vary a lot dependent on size, so this is just a general idea
Family Photos: ~30–45 minutes
- if you use our list above, it takes around 30 minutes to complete. Add another 15 min if you opt to include several extended family groupings.
Typical Timing Ranges
a few
helpful notes:
- Buffer time makes a big difference — especially when transitioning between locations (consider travel time always, even if it is just walking from point A to point B in heels and not busy city traffic).
- Natural light and breathing room create the most relaxed, authentic images, but we have lighting equipment for any and all scenarios.
- We’ll always prioritize a pace that feels unhurried and enjoyable, and be there of offer direction and help as needed.
More Resources Coming Soon
I’ll continue adding helpful tips here from time to time, including topics like:
Additional photo shot lists
Lighting considerations
Detail photo prep (what to set aside)
Feel free to bookmark this page and check back anytime, or send me an email with what you would like to see added next!
email rachael
Let's create something beautiful.
I'm here to help every step of the way, so just reach out with questions.
You can reach us online at hello@rachaelosborn.com,
or by calling or texting at 815-631-1450
xo,
Rachael Osborn
