What to Consider When Deciding How Many Hours of Wedding Photography You Really Need
You’ve found the photographer of your dreams—now comes one of the most important planning questions: how many hours of wedding photography do you need? Should you have full-day coverage, from the getting-ready excitement to the sparkler exit? Or would a shorter, more intentional window of time still capture everything that matters most? If you’re wondering how many hours of wedding photography you really need, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions I hear from couples, and the answer depends on your timeline, traditions, and the moments you truly want preserved.
While it may seem straightforward, choosing the right amount of wedding photography coverage hours can quickly become confusing. Every couple, every wedding, and every timeline is unique. Here’s how to figure out what works best for you.
Understand What Coverage Includes
When you book a photographer, coverage typically means continuous time. So, if your package includes eight hours, that’s eight hours from the time your photographer starts shooting—no pauses unless agreed upon ahead of time.
That’s why it’s important to map out your wedding day and decide which moments matter most to you. Do you want images of getting ready? Are sunset portraits a must-have? Would you regret not having dance floor photos from the reception?
Ask the Right Questions About Packages
Photographers often use terms like “half-day” or “full-day,” but these can mean different things depending on who you’re working with. For some, a full day is 8 hours; for others, it might be 10 or 12. Make sure to ask for specifics so you know exactly what you’re getting.
Some photographers also offer hourly add-ons, which can be helpful if you’re unsure but want flexibility. It’s always better to overestimate than miss a moment you hoped would be captured.
I Customize the Experience for You
To help guide my couples toward the coverage that fits them best, I send a detailed wedding questionnaire that walks through your day, your priorities, and the people most important to you. Once that’s completed, we hop on a timeline consultation call to go over everything together. This ensures we create a photo timeline that flows naturally and gives you the most meaningful moments captured with ease.
A Sample Wedding Day Breakdown
Most weddings can be broken down into these core sections:
Getting Ready
Hair, makeup, and all the anticipation—this portion takes longer than most expect. Brides often need around three hours, and bridesmaids around 1.5 hours each. If one stylist is handling multiple people, plan for a buffer. These images set the tone for your story, so don’t underestimate their importance.
First Look
If you’re planning a first look, schedule about 30 minutes. It’s one of the most emotional parts of the day, and keeping it distraction-free helps make the moment feel even more special.
Ceremony
Ceremonies vary widely in length. Whether yours is a quick 15-minute vow exchange or a full traditional service, add a 15–20 minute buffer just in case. Delays happen, and a little breathing room goes a long way.
Family and Couple Portraits
If you haven’t done portraits before the ceremony, plan for up to 2 hours afterward. This gives your photographer time to gather family members, organize groups, and capture couple portraits while the lighting is still great. If you’ve done a first look and knocked out family photos earlier, you may only need an hour.
Reception Coverage
Most photographers don’t need to stay through the entire reception. Once major moments like the first dance, parent dances, speeches, and cake cutting are done, it’s okay to let the coverage end. Dance floor shots are fun, but you likely don’t need hundreds of them.
Communication is Key
To ensure you get what you need, keep an open line of communication with your photographer. Share what’s most important to you. Want just the ceremony? Prefer full coverage from sunrise to sparkler exit? Your photographer can help create a timeline that works.
Final Thoughts
The right amount of wedding photography coverage hours depends on your timeline, traditions, and priorities. Take the time to review your schedule, talk with your photographer, and build in a little buffer time.
Still unsure how many hours you’ll need? Contact me here and let’s walk through your timeline together. I’d love to help you feel confident and stress-free as we plan your perfect day.
Looking for more tips?
Check out this guide on the best time of year to get married in St. Augustine.
Need help creating a seamless wedding day timeline? Explore my full wedding planning resources here.
Read about why couples love working with me on their wedding day: Client Reviews.
