How Many Hours Do You Really Need to Book Your Wedding Photographer For?
Here’s some things to consider:
Do you want to capture getting-ready images? Are you having a first look? How much travel will be involved? How long is your wedding reception?
Three Hours of Wedding Photography Coverage
For a simple elopement / small wedding I recommend at least three hours of wedding day photography coverage. Here are a few situations when three hours of wedding photography coverage will work just perfect:
- Your ceremony and reception are in the same location
- You don’t have many or any guests
- You are having a simple ceremony leaving more time for couples photos
Four Hours of Wedding Photography Coverage
Unless you are eloping or having a small wedding instead of a large reception, I recommend at least four hours of wedding day photography coverage. Here are a few situations when four hours of wedding photography coverage will work just perfect:
- Your ceremony and reception are in the same location
- You don’t want many getting ready photos
- You don’t have a special reception exit planned and don’t need a lot of dancing photos
Six Hours of Wedding Photography Coverage
Six hours of wedding photography is the most popular amount of coverage and will cover most wedding days from start to finish. Here are a few situations when six hours of wedding photography coverage will probably be needed!
- Your ceremony and reception are in different locations
- You want to do a first look
- You want both getting ready photos and some of dancing photos
Eight Hours of Wedding Photography Coverage
In some situations, six hours of wedding photography just won’t be enough to capture your whole wedding day. Here are a few situations when you might need eight hours of wedding photography coverage, or maybe even more!
- You want everything in six hours coverage, but having late departure with a lot of fun prior.
- You have more than one ceremonies (such as a morning bridal tea ceremony)
- You want editorial style bridal portraits
