After the "I Do"

Most couples on their wedding day want to slip away for a private couple photo session—and for good reason. You’ve invested time, money, and love into looking incredible. More importantly, this is the one day where the two of you should slow down, breathe, and soak in the reality that you’re officially married. A private photo session gives you that moment.

After coordinating weddings for five years, I’ve seen how timing this session well can make the whole day feel smoother, more intimate, and more enjoyable. Here are the two most common ways to incorporate it, along with my best tips.

Option 1: Keep the Tradition

You don’t see each other before the ceremony.

If you’re set on keeping things traditional, then your private couple photos will naturally happen after the ceremony. Here’s the flow I recommend:

1. Dismiss guests smoothly

Have your officiant send everyone to cocktail hour with a simple announcement, such as:
“Everyone is now dismissed to cocktail hour. If you are in the wedding party or immediate family, please listen for the DJ’s announcement in about 20 minutes—we’ll be calling you back here for photos. In the meantime, the bride and groom are going to have their private photo session.”

This creates structure (and avoids chaos) while giving you two the moment you deserve.

2. Enjoy the just-married high

This is why I love post-ceremony private sessions—they happen when emotions are fresh, genuine, and glowing. You’re still buzzing with excitement, your adrenaline is high, and you feel married. That joy photographs beautifully.

3. Keep group photos efficient

After your private photos, head back to the ceremony site for family and wedding party portraits. My biggest tip?
Keep the list tight—immediate family only (parents, siblings, grandparents, and any elderly guests who may not want to wait until the reception).

Keeping this group small allows you to move quickly, keep everyone comfortable, and usually gives you enough time to join the last 15–20 minutes of cocktail hour.

4. Use a reverse photo dash for the rest

If you still want photos with extended family or specific guests, incorporate a reverse photo dash during the reception. It’s fun, quick, and guarantees you get high-quality photos with everyone—without sacrificing cocktail hour or slowing down your timeline.

Option 2: Do a First Look

See each other before the ceremony.

The alternative—and one that many couples prefer—is to do a first look before the ceremony. This option opens the day up beautifully.

Why couples love it:

• You can finish almost all your photos early (couple portraits, wedding party, and sometimes even family).

• You get a private moment together BEFORE the day gets busy.

• You can enjoy the full cocktail hour.

• Your timeline feels more relaxed and spacious.

A first look gives you all the emotional benefits of a private session—just earlier in the day—while also maximizing your time with your guests. And if you still want a few “just married” photos after the ceremony, you can absolutely add a quick 5–10 minute sunset session or sneak away during golden hour.

Final Thoughts

Your private couple photo session isn’t just about photos—it’s about connection, breathing room, and being present with your partner on one of the most meaningful days of your lives. Whether you stay traditional or choose a first look, pick the option that supports the kind of wedding day experience you want. There’s no wrong answer—just what feels right for the two of you.