Let me guess: You’re sitting at your computer, 14 tabs open, scrolling through wedding packages that all list different numbers—6 hours, 8 hours, 10 hours—and wondering…“How many hours of wedding photography do we actually need?”

And more importantly:
What even happens during all those hours?
Will we miss something if we don’t book the full day?
Do we really need photos of the reception when everyone’s sweaty and shoeless?

Let’s break it all down. I’m walking you through how long different parts of the day usually take, what gets covered in a 6, 8, or 10-hour wedding photography package, and how to decide what’s best for you.

First, How Long Does Wedding Photography Actually Take?

There’s a lot happening on a wedding day—and some of the most meaningful moments aren’t the ones on your invitation timeline. That’s why photography coverage isn’t just about the ceremony and reception—it’s about the in-between, too.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but based on my recent blog about creating a wedding timeline, here’s a general breakdown of how long the major photo moments usually take.

• Getting Ready (1.5–2 hours):
  Enough time to photograph your details (dress, shoes, invites), capture those final touch-ups, and snag some sweet candids with your people—plus maybe a champagne pop or two.
  
• First Look + Couple Portraits (45 minutes):
  Whether you’re doing a first look or saving it for the aisle, I recommend setting aside this time for just the two of you. It also gives us a chance to take some relaxed portraits before the day picks up speed.
  
• Bridal Party Photos (30–45 minutes):
  Depends on your group size, but this gives us time for full group shots and individual combos—plus a few fun candids if the energy’s right.
  
• Family Photos (20–30 minutes):
  With a pre-planned list and some cooperation (looking at you, Uncle Dan), we can get through these quickly and smoothly.
  
• Ceremony (30–60 minutes):
  Varies depending on your traditions, but I always arrive early to capture the setup and guest arrivals, too.
  
• Golden Hour Portraits (15–20 minutes):
  These are the soft, glowy “frame-this-one” shots that happen just before sunset—my personal favorite part of the day.
  
• Reception Events (3–4 hours):
  From your entrance and first dance through toasts, dinner, and open dance floor shenanigans, this window gives you space to celebrate while I capture all the good stuff.

It adds up fast. And when the day flies by, the last thing you want is to realize your photographer peaced out before your dad’s speech or your sparkler exit.

My Best Tip: Add in buffer time, transitions between locations, and natural pauses (because nobody wants a rushed day), and suddenly it’s easy to see why most couples need more coverage than they think.

How to Decide How Much Wedding Photo Coverage is “Enough” When Booking

Now that you have a feel for how long wedding photos take, let’s talk about what that means for your actual photography package.

Because here’s the thing no one tells you: Most people book their hours before they’ve built a timeline. Which makes it really hard to know if 6 hours is enough—or if 8 would feel way better (spoiler: it usually does).

So here’s a rundown of what’s typically covered in a 6, 8, or 10-hour package—and which one might be the best fit for you.

When 6 Hours of Wedding Photography Is Enough

Let’s start small. 6 hours can work beautifully for certain kinds of celebrations—it just requires a tight, intentional schedule and lower guest count.

This is ideal if:

• You’re planning a micro wedding or elopement
• Your ceremony and reception are at the same location
• You’re skipping a first look (or skipping getting ready coverage altogether)
• You don’t care about golden hour portraits or late-night dance floor coverage
  

What 6 hours usually covers:

• Final getting ready touch-ups
• Ceremony
• Family + bridal party portraits
• Couple portraits
• A bit of reception coverage (think: entrances, toasts, dinner)
  

Heads up: There’s not a lot of buffer room here. If anything runs behind, we’ll have to cut something—so if flexibility matters to you, 6 hours might feel tight.

Why 8 Hours Is the MOST Popular Option

8 hours hits the sweet spot for most couples. It allows your day to breathe, gives us time to capture the full story from start to finish, and builds in some margin for real-life pauses—like bathroom breaks, bustling the dress, or an impromptu toast from your college roommate.

This is ideal if:

• You want getting ready photos for one or both partners
• You’re doing a first look
• You want time for full wedding party and family portraits
• You want golden hour couple portraits
  
• You’re planning a standard reception with dancing, dinner, and toasts
  

What 8 hours usually covers:

• Detail shots + getting ready
• First look + portraits
• Ceremony
• Full group photos
• Golden hour couple portraits
• Reception through key events (toasts, first dances, cake cutting)
  

This is enough coverage for most weddings that don’t involve extensive travel between locations. You’ll get a complete story, front to back, without having to rush.

When You’ll Want 10 Hours of Photography Coverage

You know that feeling when a day is so full you can’t pick a favorite part? That’s what 10 hours is for. It lets you capture everything—with enough time for the in-between, the unexpected, and the moments you didn’t even realize were happening.

This is ideal if:

• You’re getting ready in separate locations
• You’re having a religious or cultural ceremony with extra length or traditions
• You want full reception coverage and a grand exit
• You want time for a private vow exchange, gift swap, or first look with your parent
• Your day includes multiple locations or transportation time
  

What 10 hours usually covers:

• Full getting ready coverage for both partners
• First look + relaxed couple portraits
• Family + wedding party
• Ceremony
• Golden hour portraits
• Full reception through exit (dancing, toasts, cake, party, sparkler exit, all of it)
  

Extra time = less pressure. You can slow down, take in the moment, and enjoy your day without constantly checking the clock.

Still Not Sure What’s Right for You?

Totally normal. Here’s what I always tell my couples:

• Start with your priorities. What moments matter most to you?
• Think about your locations. If you’re moving between venues, that eats into photo time.
• Consider your people. A larger wedding party or guest list often means more photo groupings (and more time).
  

And if you’re still feeling stuck? That’s what I’m here for. I’ve helped dozens of couples build timelines that feel realistic, personal, and not overwhelming.

Reach out here and let’s talk about what your day might look like