Welcome


Your wedding day is a momentous occasion filled with love, joy, and cherished memories. While planning your big day, one crucial decision is determining how long you'll need a wedding photographer. It's essential to strike a balance between ensuring every precious moment is captured and staying within your budget. Below are just a handful of ideas to think about!

The Size and Complexity of Your Wedding


One of the most significant factors affecting the duration of your wedding photography is the size and complexity of your wedding. A small, intimate wedding with fewer guests may require less coverage than a large, extravagant celebration. Consider the number of locations, details, and special moments you want to be captured when deciding on the length of time for your photographer.

Bride having her makeup done in Jeffersons Landing Manor House

Getting Ready


The "getting ready" phase is a crucial part of your wedding day. It includes the pre-ceremony moments, such as the bride and groom dressing up, family interactions, and the anticipation leading up to the ceremony. To capture these emotional and candid moments, you'll want your photographer with you for at least a couple of hours before the ceremony.

Wedding Ceremony at Willow Falls Events

Ceremony Coverage


The wedding ceremony is the heart of your special day, and you'll undoubtedly want it documented thoroughly. Depending on your chosen traditions and ceremony length, this part of your day could range from 30 minutes to several hours. Be sure to allocate sufficient time for your photographer to capture the processional, vows, ring exchange, and those unforgettable "I do" moments.

Ceremony Coverage


The wedding ceremony is the heart of your special day, and you'll undoubtedly want it documented thoroughly. Depending on your chosen traditions and ceremony length, this part of your day could range from 30 minutes to several hours. Be sure to allocate sufficient time for your photographer to capture the processional, vows, ring exchange, and those unforgettable "I do" moments.

Trumpet Player at a wedding in the Omni Grove Park Inn

Reception and Party


The reception is where you celebrate your union with family and friends. The duration of the reception can vary greatly, depending on whether you plan a simple meal, a multi-course banquet, or an all-night dance party. Your photographer can capture candid moments, speeches, and the first dance, so make sure to discuss your vision with them to determine the coverage you need.

Wedding family photo at Jeffersons Landing Manor House

Portraits and Group Shots


Formal portraits and group shots with family and bridal party members are an integral part of any wedding album. The time needed for these shots can vary, so it's crucial to work with your photographer to create a realistic schedule for capturing these special moments efficiently.

Sunset and Golden Hour


For those dreamy, romantic shots, consider scheduling a session during the golden hour, the hour or so just before sunset. The soft, warm lighting during this time can create breathtaking images. Make sure to include this in your photography timeline, as it typically takes around 20-30 minutes to capture these stunning shots.

Golden Hour Couples Portrait at Something Blue Mountain Venue

Exit and Departure


Don't forget to include time for your photographer to capture your grand exit or send-off. Whether it's a sparkler exit, a traditional rice toss, or a simple walk down the aisle as a married couple, these moments are worth preserving.

Wedding ribbon send of Something Blue Mountain Venue

To Wrap Up


Your wedding day is a unique and unforgettable experience, and the right photographer can help you relive those precious moments for years to come. The duration of your wedding photography coverage should be tailored to your specific needs and vision. Remember to communicate openly with your photographer to create a schedule that ensures every crucial moment is beautifully captured while respecting your budget.

In the end, it's not just about the quantity of photos, but the quality of the memories they preserve. So, choose wisely and plan thoughtfully to ensure that your wedding day is perfectly documented from beginning to end.

@tristin.lennert

Follow me on Instagram