Capturing Every Moment: How to Determine the Perfect Number of Wedding Photography Hours

As you embark on the journey of planning your dream wedding, one question that often arises is how many hours of coverage you should book with your wedding photographer. Whether you're planning an intimate elopement, a cozy gathering, or a grand affair, finding the perfect balance of time to capture those cherished moments is key.

6 Hours: Embracing Simplicity

When it comes to traditional weddings, 6 hours of wedding photography coverage is often considered the bare minimum. This option is best suited for couples who prefer a simpler affair, where getting ready photos may not be a top priority, and the ceremony and reception are held at the same location.

With 6 hours of coverage, you can capture the essential elements of your special day, including the ceremony, family photos at the ceremony site, the wedding party moments, the couple's portraits, and the main reception events like the first dances, speeches, and cake cutting.

However, it's important to note that depending on the specifics of your wedding day plans, this timeframe may not cover all of your desired getting ready and reception moments. So, if you envision an extensive celebration that includes additional festivities, you may want to consider allocating more time.

8 Hours: Embracing Joyful Moments

For many couples, 8-10 hours of wedding photography coverage proves to be the sweet spot and is considered full-day coverage. This timeframe allows for a more comprehensive documentation of your love-filled day, capturing not just the main events but also those treasured in-between moments and details.

With this many hours, you can savor the beauty of the getting ready phase - a joyful time of anticipation and preparation. It also offers the flexibility to incorporate a first look if you and your partner desire one, allowing for an intimate moment full of raw emotion and excitement.

Aside from the essential elements of the day, such as the family and wedding party portraits and bride and groom portraits, 8-10 hours allows for a wider scope of coverage. It provides the opportunity to capture the intricate details - such as the invitation suite, accessories, and wedding day attire. Additionally, depending on your preferences, you can allocate time for capturing dreamy shots at other picturesque locations, adding a touch of wanderlust to your story.

However, do keep in mind that the suitability of 8-10 hours depends on your individual priorities and wedding day plans, including the distance between venues and the number of off-site locations you wish to capture. So, take a moment to envision your perfect day and consider where you'd like to allocate your photographer's time.

A Personal Recommendation: Your Story, Your Choice

When it comes to choosing between 6 and 8+ hours of wedding photography coverage, it ultimately boils down to what truly matters to you. Your wedding day is a unique reflection of your love story, and your photographer is there to weave their artistry around the moments that matter most to you.

Personally, most of the couples I have had the pleasure of working with choose at least 8 hours of coverage if they know they’re having a larger event, allowing for a more comprehensive storytelling experience. But every love story is one-of-a-kind, and your preferences and budget may differ.

During this amazing journey of capturing your unique love story through my lens, know that no matter what collection you choose, you’ll have an unforgettable experience that will be cherished for a lifetime.