How to Plan the Perfect Wedding: A Photographer’s Guide for Oregon & Seattle Couples

Planning a wedding involves many details, and capturing the day beautifully requires careful scheduling. As a wedding photographer serving Portland, Seattle, and throughout Oregon and Washington, I’ve seen what works best to ensure couples get the most out of their wedding photos without feeling rushed. Here’s a recommended timeline to help you plan the perfect wedding day.

Bride looking to the dress

Bride show her earrings

Brides makeup by her friend

Bride in wedding dress with girls

Groom with tie

Groom preparing for a wedding

1. Starting the Day: Groom & Bride Preparations

Most weddings last around 10 hours, and I always recommend starting photography early to document both the groom’s and bride’s preparations.

• Groom’s Preparation (30-45 minutes):

This session includes capturing details like attire, candid moments, and interactions with groomsmen or family.

• Bride’s Preparation (1.5 hours):

The bride’s getting-ready process is more detailed. This includes:

• Dress, accessories, and makeup touch-ups

• Candid moments with bridesmaids

• Final adjustments to the dress and accessories

• Bridal portraits

If possible, having both preparations at the same venue is ideal. If the venue’s space is limited, renting a spacious Airbnb or a location with great natural lighting and beautiful views is a great alternative. Popular preparation spots in Portland and Seattle include boutique hotels, private estates, and scenic Airbnbs in areas like the Columbia River Gorge, Mount Hood, or Snoqualmie.

2. First Look: A Private & Emotional Moment

A first look can be a great addition to your wedding timeline. If you choose to do it before the ceremony, I recommend setting aside 20-30 minutes in a picturesque location where you can share vows privately. If you prefer to see each other for the first time at the altar, then your first look happens during the ceremony itself.

Top first look locations in Oregon & Washington:

• Portland: Hoyt Arboretum, Pittock Mansion, Cathedral Park

• Seattle: Discovery Park, Kerry Park, Woodland Park Rose Garden

• Columbia River Gorge & Mt. Hood: Government Cove, Latourell Falls, Trillium Lake

Bride with father goes to alter

Bridesmaids' vows

exchange of wedding rings

happy brides at the alter

Happy brides left the alter

3. The Ceremony: Key Tips for a Smooth Flow

Before the ceremony begins, the bride should remain hidden to maintain the element of surprise. This is also the perfect time for last-minute touch-ups, relaxing with a drink, and mentally preparing for the walk down the aisle.

4. Cocktail Hour: Perfect Time for Family & Guest Photos

After the ceremony, the cocktail hour is ideal for capturing family and guest portraits. To ensure this process runs smoothly:

• Prepare a family photo list in advance and give copies to both the photographer and a designated person who knows all family members. This helps in quickly gathering groups for photos.

Happy brides dancing

Happy groom with his bride

Dancing bride

5. Wedding Party & Couple Portraits

• Before the Ceremony (if possible): If you’ve planned a first look, I recommend capturing bridal party and couple portraits right after. This allows for a relaxed atmosphere and ensures essential shots are taken before the day gets too hectic.

• After the Ceremony (if needed): If the couple prefers not to see each other before the ceremony, portraits can be taken during the cocktail hour or just before the reception. This usually takes around 30 minutes.

• Sunset Portraits (10-15 minutes):

One of the most important photography moments of the day is during sunset. The soft, natural lighting at this time creates the most stunning and memorable images. I always recommend setting aside at least 10-15 minutes to step away briefly and capture these golden-hour shots.

Best sunset photo locations in Oregon & Washington:

• Cannon Beach, Oregon Coast

• Mount Rainier National Park

• Cape Kiwanda, Pacific City

• Rattlesnake Ledge, North Bend

• Rowena Crest, Columbia River Gorge

The bride leads the groom

Brides sitting at the field

Brides blow on the dandelion

Brides kiss

A happy kiss

Final Thoughts

By planning your wedding day timeline carefully, you can ensure a stress-free experience while capturing the most beautiful moments. The key is to allocate time for essential photos without feeling rushed. Whether it’s the first look, family portraits, or golden-hour shots, having a structured plan allows you to enjoy the day while getting the best images to cherish for a lifetime.

For couples planning a wedding in Portland, Seattle, or anywhere in Oregon and Washington, we specialize in capturing natural, timeless wedding photography. If you’re looking for an experienced wedding photographer in Oregon or Washington, we’d love to help document your day in a way that reflects your love story.