How Many Hours of Wedding Photography Do I Really Need?
One of the most common questions I get from engaged couples is:
“How many hours of wedding photography should we book?”
It’s a great question — and an important one. The truth is, every wedding is different, and so is every couple’s vision. My goal is to help you understand what’s realistic, what’s essential, and how to make sure your day is documented beautifully from start to finish — without stress or regrets.
Start with What You Want to Remember
Before I recommend any number of hours, I always ask my couples this:
- What moments do you absolutely want captured?
- Do you want getting ready coverage?
- Are you planning a first look or a traditional aisle reveal?
- How large is your bridal party and immediate family?
- Will your ceremony and reception be in the same location, or different venues?
These questions help me understand how your day is structured — and how much time it will actually take to document it all with care and intention.
Weddings Take Longer Than You Think
Even the most organized wedding days tend to run behind. Hair and makeup may take longer. Transportation might be delayed. People wander off. Family photo lists grow longer than expected.
An 8-hour wedding day may sound like a long time — but once the timeline is in motion, it moves fast.
Here’s how time usually breaks down:
- Details + Flat Lay Styling: 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Getting Ready + Candid Moments: 1–2 hours
- First Look or Pre-Ceremony Portraits: 30–60 minutes
- Family + Formal Photos: Around 1 hour
- Ceremony Coverage: 30–60 minutes
- Couples Portraits (Post-Ceremony + Golden Hour): 30–45 minutes
- Reception Highlights (Entrances, Toasts, First Dance, etc.): 2–3 hours
And let’s not forget travel time between locations, which also counts as part of your coverage (yes — every photographer I know includes this in their time).
Second Photographer or Videographer? That Changes Things Too
Adding a second photographer or videographer is a great way to capture more perspectives and moments — but it also requires more coordination and more time.
As a photographer, I often have to wait for the videographer to finish capturing their angles before I can step in. These moments add up. And if I don’t have a second photographer, I may miss something else happening at the same time — and that truly breaks my heart.
For larger weddings or events with multiple venues and detailed timelines, a second photographer is not just helpful — it’s essential.
Why I Believe 8 Hours Is the Sweet Spot
At Ashley Painter Photography LLC, I’ve refined my collections over time to focus on what truly works — for you and for me.
I no longer offer full wedding packages under 8 hours.
Here’s why:
- 8 hours allows us to capture the full story of your day without rushing
- It gives space for both candid and styled moments to unfold naturally
- It ensures you get beautiful portraits and meaningful documentary coverage
- It protects you from regret — that “we should’ve gotten more” feeling years later
Of course, every wedding is unique. For very large weddings with 200+ guests, 10 hours may be necessary. For intimate elopements or backyard weddings with fewer than 20 people, I offer a micro wedding package that starts with fewer hours.
But for most traditional weddings? Eight hours is magic.
What’s Included in My Coverage Time?
To give you a transparent view, here’s what’s included in the time I’m booked for:
- Flat lay styling of your carefully chosen details
- Prep photos of both partners (if locations allow)
- First look and reaction shots
- Family formals, bridal party photos, couples portraits
- Ceremony and reception coverage
- Travel between locations
- Buffer time for delays or emotional moments that can’t be rushed
When I say I’m there for the story — I mean it. But I can only do that well with enough time.
Final Thoughts
Wedding photography isn’t just about snapping pretty pictures — it’s about telling a story that will mean everything to you in 10, 20, or 50 years. The hours you choose matter, because they shape the story I’m able to tell.
If you’re on the fence, I’ll always recommend 8 hours. It’s the perfect balance of coverage and peace of mind.
