What Time Should We Schedule Our Couple Portraits?
One of the most common questions couples ask when planning their photography timeline is:
“When’s the best time for couple portraits on the wedding day?”
The answer? It depends—but there’s definitely a sweet spot that makes all the difference to how your photos look and how the experience feels.
At Smiling Tiger Studios, our approach is relaxed and natural. That means no stiff poses, no dragging you away for hours, and definitely no interrupting the party. Here’s how we help you get beautiful, honest portraits—without the awkwardness or stress.
Golden Hour: Nature’s Softbox
The best light for portraits is usually during golden hour—the hour just before sunset.
This is when the sun is low, warm, and flattering. It wraps gently around you, giving that dreamy, cinematic feel that everyone loves.
If we can sneak out for 15–20 minutes around this time, the results are always worth it. It’s also a lovely breather for you both to reconnect before rejoining the celebrations.
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Planning Around the Timeline
We’ll usually build portrait time into two short sessions:
- A quick session post-ceremony (just after confetti or while guests head to drinks) – relaxed, joyful, and natural
- Golden hour portraits (15–20 mins during reception/downtime) – intimate and emotive
This way, you’re never away from your guests too long, and we still capture a gorgeous variety of moments.
Keep It Flexible
No two weddings are the same. Weather changes. Schedules shift. What matters most is flexibility.
We’ll work with the light and flow of your day—quietly guiding you into the right moment when it feels natural.
Sometimes the magic happens under a moody sky, not just golden sun. And that’s fine. It’s about how it feels, not just how it looks.
It’s About the Connection, Not the Clock
The best portraits aren’t about timing—they’re about presence.
Whether it’s five minutes or twenty, our goal is always the same: to create space for you to be yourselves. To breathe, laugh, hold each other, and let it sink in.
That’s where the magic lives.
Want to Chat Through Your Timeline?
We’re always happy to advise on how to structure your photography to make it feel easy, meaningful and natural.
