One of the most important decisions couples face when planning their wedding is how long to hire a photographer. With so many precious moments to capture, from getting ready to the grand exit, it's crucial to ensure that you have ample coverage to document every special moment. In this post, we'll explore the factors to consider when determining the duration of your wedding photographer's coverage and offer guidance on finding the perfect balance for your big day.
1. Ceremony and Reception Coverage
At a minimum, couples typically opt for coverage of the ceremony and reception. This ensures that the key moments of the day, such as exchanging vows, the first kiss, and the cutting of the cake, are captured in beautiful detail. Depending on the length and timing of your ceremony and reception, this may require anywhere from four to eight hours of coverage. This will also include a photoshoot between the ceremony and reception.
2. Getting Ready
Most couples also choose to include coverage of the getting ready process, capturing intimate moments with family and friends as they prepare for the day ahead. This can add an additional one to two hours to your photographer's coverage and provides a wonderful opportunity to document the anticipation and excitement leading up to the ceremony. It’s also a great moment for them to capture and photograph things you’ll be wearing or using on the day, especially things that have a lot of value to you - a family heirloom, a late parents jewellery, a letter from your fiance, or even just the beautiful flowers/suits/dress.
More hours with the photographer in the morning means you’ll get more fun photos with your bridesmaids!
Luke & Lesley - Belgenny Farm
3. First Look and Portraits
For those who opt for a first look or wish to take portraits before the ceremony, additional time will be needed for this portion of the day. Allocating an hour or more for first look and portrait sessions allows for relaxed and unhurried photography, resulting in stunning images that capture the love and connection between the couple. I usually recommend 2 hours for this, knowing it’s possible to photograph and have this moment in an hour - but it’s always better to overestimate how long you’ll need on your wedding day.
4. Reception Events
Consider the events you have planned during the reception, such as speeches, toasts, and the first dance. Ensuring that your photographer is present to document these moments ensures that you'll have a comprehensive record of the festivities and the heartfelt moments shared with loved ones. Letting them know about any surprises is a must as well - i’ve been lucky enough to witness some surprise dance routines, saxophone solo’s, piano and guitar serenades - speak to your photographer beforehand so they know to capture this! One question about reception coverage I get a lot is the exit - is it needed? If you have something special planned for the exit, and you have the budget for it, then absolutely. Sparklers have been the rage for a while now, and a lot of couples want this captured - but sadly they don’t realise that most, if not all, of these sparkler photos they see online are all photoshopped. It’s not hard edit these, but speak to your photographer beforehand about it to see if they’re able to do this, otherwise it generally isn’t worth capturing, and is better to just focus being in the moment. I generally recommend to my couple that i’ll finish my coverage after formalities end, and the partying starts.
Surprise Saxophone Serenade!
Surprise Fireworks!
5. Special Considerations
Every wedding is unique, and there may be additional factors to consider when determining your photographer's coverage. For example, if you're hosting a multi-day celebration or have planned special activities such as a sparkler exit or a fireworks display, you'll want to ensure that your photographer is present to capture these memorable moments - and more importantly - you LET THEM KNOW that it’s happening so they can prepare to capture it!
Finding the Right Balance
When deciding how long to hire a wedding photographer, it's essential to strike the right balance between coverage and budget. While it's tempting to extend coverage to capture every moment of the day, it's also important to consider your priorities and allocate your budget accordingly. Discuss your timeline and vision with your photographer, who can offer guidance on the ideal amount of coverage to suit your needs and preferences.
In conclusion, the duration of your wedding photographer's coverage is a key decision that will impact the memories you'll cherish for a lifetime. By considering the events and moments you most want to capture, and working closely with your photographer to create a timeline that reflects your vision, you can ensure that your wedding day is beautifully documented from beginning to end.
My recommendation? From Getting Ready, until End of Formalities, which is generally 8-12hrs. In fact, it’s the only length of coverage I have a package for (except for elopements). The reason being, you don’t want to feel the stress of ‘how much longer do we have them for?’ on your day, and I want to ensure that I capture all the moments of your day, and not leave 5 minutes before your first dance because “you only paid for 8hrs of coverage”. Couples put their trust and faith in me to capture their day once book with me, and I always intend to put my absolute all in.
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