The amount of time spent with a wedding photographer is different for all couples. Some want only a few hours and others want a lot more. In all honesty, it depends. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide.

2 Hours

If you are one of the many couples who will be eloping or planning a micro wedding, you will likely need about 2 hours of photography coverage. If you prefer to capture more than just the ceremony and a few portraits, you may want to consider booking an extra hour or two.

6 Hours

This is the ideal number of hours for intimate weddings with less than 50 guests. These 6 hours will give you enough time to capture important moments such as getting ready, the ceremony, family photos, the first dance, and cutting the cake. There won’t be enough time for detail and décor shots or many photos of the end of the night though.

8 Hours

This is generally the average number of hours that couples book with their wedding photographer. It provides enough time for all the moments mentioned above. But there is also additional time available for bridal party photos and photos of your guests at the reception. If you are having the ceremony and reception at different locations, choose at least 8 hours as this will allow for travel time.

10 Hours

If you hate being rushed and want as much time as possible for all the shots you have in mind, book at least 10 hours with your wedding photographer. This also leaves more than enough time for detail and prep shots, a first look, and a photobooth, and a grand reception exit.

It’s very rare for couples to need more than 10 hours of photography time on their wedding day. However, don’t forget to ask your photographer whether their travel time is included in those hours should you be planning a destination wedding.

Contact me if you’d like to talk more about coverage for your day or if you need more information to try to find out what would suit your day best.