The Pros & Cons of a Long vs. Short Wedding Day Photography Package
One of the most common questions couples ask me is: How many hours of wedding photography coverage do we actually need?
The answer isn’t the same for everyone. Some couples love the idea of full-day coverage from the moment hair and makeup starts to the last sparkler exit. Others prefer a more streamlined experience that captures the most important parts without adding extra hours.
Let’s break down what realistically fits into a 6, 8, and 10-hour wedding photography package - and the pros and cons of each.
6 Hours of Wedding Photography
What fits into 6 hours:
A few getting ready photos or a few reception photos (not usually both)
First Look (optional but recommended if you want more portraits before the ceremony)
Ceremony coverage
Family photos
Bridal party photos
Bride & groom portraits
Pros:
Covers the essentials without overcomplicating the day.
Budget-friendly compared to longer packages.
Works well for smaller weddings, simple timelines, or couples who want photography focused on just the big moments.
Cons:
Limited flexibility if the day runs behind schedule.
Either getting ready or reception coverage usually gets cut short.
You may feel rushed fitting in all portraits before the reception.
8 Hours of Wedding Photography
What fits into 8 hours:
Detail photos (rings, invitation suite, florals, dress, etc.)
Getting ready photos for both partners
First Look
Ceremony coverage
Family photos
Bridal party photos
Bride & groom portraits
At least the beginning of the reception (toasts, first dances, cake cutting, candids, etc.)
Bonus: My 8-hour package also includes an engagement session, so you’ll feel comfortable in front of the camera before the wedding day.
Pros:
Balanced coverage of the entire day.
Allows for both getting ready and reception moments.
Enough time for detail photos without feeling rushed.
Flexibility for couples with larger bridal parties or more complex timelines.
Cons:
Doesn’t usually extend to the end of the reception unless your day starts later.
May require a staged “fake exit” if you want send-off photos.
10 Hours of Wedding Photography
What fits into 10 hours:
Detail photos with plenty of breathing room
Full getting ready coverage for both partners
First Look
Ceremony coverage
Family photos
Bridal party photos
Bride & groom portraits (including golden hour or sunset photos)
Full reception coverage - from grand entrance to the final send-off
Bonus: Like the 8-hour package, my 10-hour package also includes an engagement session, giving you two sessions together: your engagement photos plus a full wedding day.
Pros:
Complete start-to-finish story of your wedding day.
Coverage for every special moment, without choosing what gets cut.
Perfect for couples who want a relaxed timeline with plenty of candid moments.
No need to stage a send-off — your real one will be documented.
Cons:
Higher investment compared to shorter packages.
Not always necessary for smaller weddings or couples who prioritize just the highlights.
Which Wedding Photography Package Is Right for You?
When deciding how many hours of coverage you need, think about what matters most:
Do you want photos of both partners getting ready?
Is documenting the full reception important, or just the beginning?
Do you want detail photos, golden hour portraits, or late-night candids?
For most couples, 8 hours is the sweet spot - plenty of coverage without feeling like the entire day is spent in front of the camera. But if you’re planning a larger celebration, want a relaxed timeline, or value having your full reception photographed, a 10-hour package is the way to go.
And if your focus is mainly on ceremony + portraits, a 6-hour package is often the perfect fit.
Still unsure? You can fill out my timeline questionnaire and I’ll help you figure out exactly which package fits your day best.
Final Thoughts
There’s no “one size fits all” answer when it comes to wedding photography packages. The best choice depends on your timeline, priorities, and the story you want told through your photos.
Still unsure? I’m always happy to walk you through your timeline and help decide what coverage makes the most sense for your day.