Post-Wedding Workflow Checklist

Your complete post-wedding workflow from the moment you leave the venue to final delivery. Check off each step to track your progress.

Back up all cards immediately

Copy to at least 2 separate drives before doing anything else. This is non-negotiable.
Verify backup integrity

Spot-check files on both backups. Open random images/video clips to confirm no corruption.
Send thank you text/message to couple

Quick message letting them know you had a wonderful time and captured beautiful moments.
Clean and store gear

Wipe down bodies and lenses. Especially important after Hawaii beach weddings - salt and sand are enemies.
Recharge all batteries

Get everything ready for your next shoot while it's fresh.

Import and organize all files

Create proper folder structure. Rename files with date and wedding name.
First cull - remove obvious rejects

Delete out-of-focus, duplicates, test shots, and clear mistakes. Don't overthink it.
Second cull - select best versions

From similar shots, pick the strongest. Aim for quality over quantity.
Sync and organize audio (videographers)

Match external audio with video clips. Label ceremony, speeches, vows clearly.
Select sneak peek images (if promised)

Choose 5-15 of your absolute best shots that tell the story.
Edit and deliver sneak peeks

Quick edits on hero images. Deliver via promised method (email, social, gallery).

Color correct batch of photos

Apply consistent color profile across similar lighting conditions.
Individual photo adjustments

Fine-tune exposure, crop, and local adjustments on each image.
Skin retouching on key portraits

Blemish removal, subtle smoothing. Don't over-process - keep it natural.
Video rough cut assembly

Lay out timeline with key moments. Establish pacing and story flow.
Video fine cut and timing

Refine edits, sync to music, smooth transitions.
Color grade video

Apply consistent look across all footage. Match any mixed cameras.
Audio mixing and cleanup

Level audio, reduce noise, blend music with dialogue appropriately.

Review all photos at 100%

Check for focus issues, sensor spots, distracting elements you missed.
Check photo consistency

Scroll through gallery quickly - any images jump out as different color/exposure?
Watch video on different screens

Check on phone, TV, monitor. Adjust if colors look off on consumer displays.
Test video audio on headphones and speakers

What sounds good on studio monitors may clip on phone speakers.
Verify all names are spelled correctly

Double-check any text in video titles, gallery names, file names.

Export photos in correct resolution/format

Full resolution for print, web-optimized for gallery. Include both if contracted.
Export video in correct codec/resolution

4K or 1080p as promised. H.264 for web delivery, ProRes for archives.
Upload to delivery platform

Pic-Time, Pixieset, CloudSpot, Vimeo, etc. Allow time for upload to complete.
Test gallery/download links

Click every link. Download a sample. Play video. Ensure everything works.
Write personalized delivery email

Not just a link - express gratitude, share a memory, set expectations.
Send delivery to client

The moment of truth. Breathe - you did great work.

Check in after a few days

Make sure they received everything and are happy. Address any concerns.
Request review/testimonial

Ask for Google review, Yelp, or written testimonial. Make it easy for them.
Share to social media (with permission)

Post your favorites. Tag venue, vendors, couple. Credit everyone appropriately.
Submit to blogs/publications (if applicable)

Styled shoots and beautiful weddings deserve exposure. Get client approval first.
Update portfolio with new work

Add best images to website. Rotate out older work if needed.
Follow up on album order (if included)

Send album design for approval. Order when finalized.

Organize final project files

Clean up working files. Keep raw, edited, and exports organized.
Create long-term archive backup

Archive to separate drive or cloud storage for long-term retention.
Verify archive integrity

Test archive files. Ensure they're readable and complete.
Format memory cards for reuse

Only after confirming backups are solid. Cards are now ready for next wedding.
Document lessons learned

What went well? What would you do differently? Quick notes for future reference.

Workflow Success Tips

Batch similar tasks - Edit all getting ready, then all ceremony, then all reception
Set realistic deadlines - Build buffer time into your promised turnaround
Communicate proactively - If you're running behind, tell the client early
Protect your time - Block editing days in your calendar
Take breaks - Fresh eyes catch more mistakes