How Many Hours Should I Book My Wedding Photographer For?

Uncertainty in Planning Planning a wedding involves many details, and knowing how many hours of photography you need can be one of the most confusing parts.

Ensuring Adequate Coverage You want to ensure all significant moments are captured without paying for unnecessary hours.

Tailored Coverage Based on Your Day By understanding your wedding day schedule and prioritizing key moments, you can select the right photography package that meets both your needs and your budget.

Building a Wedding Timeline Always include extra time in your schedule to avoid feeling rushed. Unexpected delays can happen, and it’s better to have extra time and not need it than to stress about fitting everything in.

First Look Having a first look can be a private and calming moment before the ceremony, allowing you to spend more time together and take more photos without the pressure of guests waiting.

Weddings Without a First Look If you choose not to have a first look, plan for extra time during the cocktail hour for formal photos. Ensure everyone knows they’ll be needed for pictures immediately after the ceremony.

How Long Do Wedding Photos Take? Standard packages usually range from 6 to 10 hours. Here’s how different packages can fit your day:

• 6 Hour Package:

• Ideal for smaller weddings with fewer activities.

  2:15 - 3:15 First Look and Portraits

  3:15 - 4:15 Wedding Party and Family Formals

  4:15 - 5:00 Photograph ceremony & reception spaces while you wait for guests to arrive

  5:00 - 5:30 Ceremony

  5:30 - 6:30 Cocktail Hour

  6:30 - 7:00 Introductions into reception, First Dance, Parent Dances, Speeches/Toasts

  7:00 - 7:45 Dinner

  7:45 Cake cutting

  7:45 - 8:15 Dancing (Photographers leave at 8:15)

• 8 Hour Package:

• Covers getting ready photos and provides a balanced schedule.

  11:45 - 1:00 Getting Ready Photos

  1:00 - 1:15 Travel to Ceremony Location (15 min)

  1:15 - 2:15 First Look and Portraits

  2:15 - 3:15 Wedding Party and Family Formals

  3:15 - 4:00 Photograph ceremony & reception spaces while you wait for guests to arrive

  4:00 - 4:30 Ceremony

  4:30 - 5:30 Cocktail Hour

  5:30 - 6:00 Introductions into reception, First Dance, Parent Dances, Speeches/Toasts

  6:00 - 6:45 Dinner

  6:45 Cake cutting

  6:45 - 7:45 Dancing (Photographers leave at 7:45)

• 10 Hour Package:

• Perfect for longer ceremonies or multiple locations.

  11:00 - 12:15 Getting Ready Photos

  12:15 - 12:45 Travel to Ceremony Location (30 min)

  1:15 - 2:15 First Look and Portraits

  2:15 - 3:15 Wedding Party and Family Formals

  3:15 - 4:00 Photograph ceremony space while you wait for guests to arrive

  4:00 - 5:00 Ceremony

  5:00 - 5:30 Travel to reception (30 min)

  5:30 - 6:30 Cocktail Hour

  6:30 - 7:00 Introductions into reception, First Dance, Parent Dances, Speeches/Toasts

  7:00 - 7:45 Dinner

  7:45 Cake cutting

  7:45 - 8:30 Dancing (Photographers leave at 9:00)

  8:30 -9:00 Exit (Photographers leave at 9:00)

Additional Hours or/and Custom Hours If unsure, start with a basic package and add hours as needed. Discuss your options with your photographer to find the best fit.

Example Timelines Provide your photographer with details about your day for a customized timeline, including whether you want getting-ready photos and if you’re having a first look.

About Alyssa

I capture the genuine beauty and unique moments of your special day, creating a lasting visual story of your love.

In addition to her photography endeavors, Alyssa balances her roles as a devoted mother to her daughter and beloved dog, and as a supportive wife to Tim. Outside of work, she embraces a myriad of outdoor pursuits, including hiking, biking, running, skiing, snowboarding, camping, fishing, hunting, and paddleboarding, relishing every opportunity for adventure and exploration amidst Montana's breathtaking landscapes. Alongside her professional pursuits, Alyssa also dedicates her time as a full-time Real Estate Advisor at Engel & Volkers Bozeman Real Estate, further enriching her multifaceted life.

Ready to Capture Your Wedding Day?

Benefits You Can Expect

• Comprehensive Coverage - Capture every significant moment from start to finish.

• Customized Attention - Photography packages tailored to your specific needs.

• Artistic Excellence - Stunning, candid photos that highlight the essence of your day.

Testimonials

How It Works: Three Simple Steps

1. Consultation - Discuss your vision and requirements.

2. Planning - Develop a customized photography plan.

3. Execution - Capture every precious moment of your wedding day.

Here’s What You’ll Get

1. Flawless Images: High edited photos

2. Timeless Memories: Freezing time

3. Authentic Moments: Capturing the moment

4. Effortless Elegance: Natural posing

5. Emotional Impact: Capture emotion and feeling

6. Seamless Coordination: Communication skills

7. Perfect Visuals: Good lighting and editing

8. Genuine Reflections: Capturing personality

9. Reliable Expertise: Experience

10. Stress-Free Solutions: Problem solving

Ready to Get Started?

By understanding your wedding timeline and selecting the right photography package, you can ensure every important moment is beautifully captured. Let me help you preserve the memories of your special day.