How Much Time Do You Really Need for Wedding Photos?
“How many hours of photography do we actually need?”
This is one of the most common questions I get when couples are figuring out their wedding timeline - and honestly? The answer is: it depends.
The good news is that most weddings I photograph fall somewhere in the 6 to 8-hour range. That’s the sweet spot for most traditional wedding days without feeling rushed or overdoing it.
Let’s break down what’s typically included at each coverage level to help you decide what’s best for your day.
6 Hours of Photography Coverage
This is the “just right” fit for a lot of couples. It usually allows time for:
Ceremony coverage
Family and bridal party portraits
Bride and groom portraits
A portion of the reception (like cake cutting or dancing)
With a 6-hour package, you can typically choose one of the following to include:
Getting ready photos and a few detail shots (like your rings, invitation suite, or dress)
Coverage through most of the reception
A little of both (but not full coverage of either)
If you’re keeping things simple or want to avoid long days, this might be the perfect fit!
8 Hours of Photography Coverage
This is ideal if you want a little more breathing room - and full coverage of your day from start to finish. An 8-hour day usually includes:
Flat lay and detail photos before the ceremony
Getting ready moments (including robe/PJ shots, final touch-ups, and those sweet buttoning-the-dress shots)
Ceremony and all portraits
Reception coverage and send-off or faux exit photos
8 hours gives us more space to be creative and less need to rush through transitions. It’s also great if you have a larger bridal party or want multiple portrait locations on site.
9–10+ Hours of Photography Coverage
You don’t always need this much coverage - but sometimes it makes sense. I recommend 9–10 hours if:
You’re planning multiple locations (like getting ready in one place, a ceremony at another, and portraits at a third)
You have a longer reception timeline with toasts, dinner, sunset portraits, and a big send-off
You’re including additional sessions like a bridal session or traditional cultural elements
This kind of coverage is less common but totally doable if it fits your vision!
Still Not Sure? Let’s Talk Through It
Choosing the right number of hours comes down to what moments matter most to you. Some couples don’t care about getting ready photos - others want every last moment, from hair and makeup to the final dance.
The best way to figure it out? Start with your ceremony time and work backward and forward from there. Think about what you want captured before and after, and how much time we’ll need to get it all in without feeling rushed.
I’m always happy to walk through your timeline and make suggestions - whether you’ve already booked or are just getting started. You can also check out my pricing page to see what’s included in each of my wedding packages.
Let’s make sure your wedding photography fits your day, not someone else’s template.