How to Plan Your Wedding Timeline Around Photography Needs

Planning your wedding in Hawaii is such an exciting time, and I’m so glad you’re here! I know there’s a lot to think about, and figuring out your wedding timeline can feel like a puzzle. As a wedding photographer who’s photographed a lot of weddings here on Oahu, Hawaii, I want to help you create a timeline that lets you enjoy every moment and gets you the most beautiful photos possible.

Let’s keep it simple and stress-free. Here’s how to plan your wedding around your photos.

Hawaii’s Golden Hour for Photo Session

One of the most amazing things about Hawaii when it comes photography? The light. Seriously, it’s incredible. That golden hour glow (you know, when everything looks soft and dreamy) usually happens between 5–7pm for sunset or 6–7am for sunrise.

If you're dreaming of those warm, glowy shots you see all over Instagram, this is the time to make it happen.

Morning Light vs. Sunset Vibes

Want something peaceful and intimate? Morning ceremonies or sunrise couple portraits are amazing. Beaches are quiet, light is soft, and it feels like the whole island is just waking up with you.

If you're all about that golden sunset light, try to time your couple portraits or first dance right around then. Imagine dancing into the sunset literally. It doesn’t get more romantic.

Don’t Count Out Midday

Midday light (from around 7am–4pm) is actually great too, especially for candid moments and group shots. If you’re planning a morning ceremony followed by a brunch or early afternoon party, I’ve got plenty of light to work with. I’ll help you find the right angles and locations, even when the sun's high.

Start with Your Must-Have Moments

When you’re building your timeline, start with what matters most, like your ceremony, couple portraits, and family photos. Then, work backwards and forwards to make everything fit.

Have sufficient time for:

• Getting ready (capture those moments full of emotions before it all begins)

• Travel time if you’re moving between venues or photo spots

• Buffer time because things always take a little longer than expected

Getting Ready: More Than Hair & Makeup

The time when you get ready for your wedding is filled with moments you’ll want to remember: laughs with your wedding party, your dress going on, your parent seeing you for the first time, and more. Make sure you give me a bit of extra time here so I can capture all those feels.

Travel Time Counts, Too

If you’re planning to hit multiple locations, say, beach portraits after a hotel ceremony, we need to factor in time to get there. Island traffic can surprise you, and I’d hate for you to feel rushed on a day that should be relaxed and joyful.

Renting a Dress from the Studio?

If you’re renting dresses from our wedding dress rental partner, we’ll also plan time for your fitting and a smooth trip to your photo location. I’ll take care of the driving, so you can relax and focus on enjoying the moment.

Give Yourself Some Breathing Room

One of the biggest mistakes I see? Trying to pack in too much. Your wedding day will fly by, and if every minute is scheduled, you’ll miss those spontaneous, beautiful moments.

So, leave some space between events. That’s when the magic happens: when you're laughing with your spouse, hugging your grandma, or just taking it all in.

Communication for a Smooth Day

The best timelines come from good communication. Talk to your photographer (hi!), and share what’s most important to you as a bride. I’ll help guide you through the photo timing so you can relax.

Trust the Process

Things might shift on the day: weather changes, someone needs a moment, you’re having too much fun to rush, and that’s totally okay. I’ll roll with it and still capture everything that matters.

Flexibility Is a Gift

The more flexible your timeline, the more present you’ll be. And when you’re present, your photos will reflect that real, beautiful joy.

Let’s Document Your Wedding Story in Paradise

Planning your wedding around photos isn’t about making your day rigid, it’s about being intentional. It's about setting things up so you can actually live those moments, not just pose for them.

As an Oahu-based wedding photographer, I’m here to help you make it all flow naturally. Let’s work together to create a timeline that feels easy and real, so you can celebrate your love and walk away with wedding photos you’ll treasure forever.