How Many Hours of Wedding Photography Should I Be Booking?

Planning your wedding day with Amberlee Christey Photography

December 11, 2023

How Many Hours of Wedding Photography Should I Be Booking?

As you plan your wedding, you’re going to have to make a lot of different decisions, which means that you’re sure to come across an array of questions you never thought you’d have to ask.

One of the most common questions that brides tend to ask is how many hours of wedding photography they really need to book.

Here are a few details that will help make this decision a little easier.

Deciding on your wedding photography hours

Here is a guide to what you can expect when booking a certain amount of wedding photography hours.

6 Hours

Most photographers will offer more affordable packages that include around 6 hours of wedding day coverage. This is ideal if you’re having a small, intimate wedding where there won’t be a lot of people to manage. 6 Hours is also ideal if you’re having your ceremony and reception at the same location.

If you opt for fewer hours, remember that you won’t be able to ask for too many detail and décor shots but the important moments such as the ceremony and couple shots will all be covered.

8 Hours

8 Hours of wedding day coverage is generally ideal if you’re expecting around 100 to 120 guests. These additional hours will give your photographer more time to capture photos of you getting ready, detailed shots of your reception area and of your guests after the ceremony and your first dance.

Again, 8 hours is enough if your ceremony and reception will be at the same location. The additional 2 hours will be used on getting those detail shots and more shots of your bridal party and family. This is also an ideal package for couples looking to do a first look.

10+ Hours

If photos are incredibly important to you and you have a long list of shots that you really want to capture, opt for 10 hours or more. 10+ Hours of wedding day coverage is also ideal if your photographer will need to travel to a different location for the ceremony and reception.

If you’re still not sure how many hours you should book, chat with me about what’s important to you and I will be able to advise you accordingly. I’ll also work on your timeline with a booked wedding package to make sure you get the most out of your wedding photography. I also offer customized packages to add in hours if needed.