HOW MUCH WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY COVERAGE DO YOU REALLY NEED
If you’re newly engaged and starting to map out your wedding day, one of the big decisions you’ll make is how many hours of photography coverage to book. Six hours? Eight hours? What even happens in that extra time? I get it — it’s not always clear what the difference looks like until the day is already here. So let’s break it down together and figure out what’s the best fit for your day.
WHAT 6 HOURS OF COVERAGE LOOKS LIKE
Six hours is a solid amount of time for a smaller wedding or a more streamlined day. With this package, we can usually cover:
- Getting ready moments (final touches and details)
- Ceremony
- Family photos
- Couple portraits
- Most of the reception highlights (like the first dance and cake cutting)
If everything is happening at one location and you’re keeping your timeline tight, 6 hours can be just right. But if you’re dreaming of more candid in-between moments or you’re planning a send-off, you might start to feel the time crunch.
WHAT 8 HOURS OF COVERAGE LOOKS LIKE
This is where we get to slow down a little. With 8 hours, we can build in more breathing room and focus on storytelling. Here’s what we can usually capture:
- More getting ready coverage (hair and makeup, mimosas with your people)
- Venue and detail photos
- First look or pre-ceremony portraits
- Full ceremony and portraits
- Reception coverage from start to end — including golden hour photos or a send-off
If you’re having a larger wedding, more than one location, or just want the full story told from the relaxed morning moments to the last dance, 8 hours gives us plenty room to do that well.
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING YOUR COVERAGE
- Are you getting ready in a separate location from your ceremony?
- Are you planning a first look or waiting until the aisle?
- Do you want your exit photographed?
- Do you have a big family or bridal party that may need more time for group photos?
- Do you want time built in for relaxed, unhurried portraits?
SO WHICH ONE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
If you’re keeping things simple and cozy, with everything in one place, 6 hours might be the perfect amount of time. But if you’re planning for more movement, more coverage, or just want to soak up every little detail without rushing — 8 hours will give us the space to do that.
Still unsure? I’m happy to help you build a sample timeline for your day to see what makes the most sense. Your story is beautiful — and I’d love to tell it in a way that feels timeless, real, relaxed, and true to you.
MEET YOUR LOUISIANA WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
Hey friend! I’m Alanie – a Destination + Louisiana wedding photographer located in Lafayette. My heart is serving couples and telling their stories whether it’s chasing sunsets in Louisiana or adventuring through the hills of Tuscany.
If you’re searching for a wedding photographer who values connection, intentionality, and honest, artful imagery, I’d be honored to photograph your wedding day. Take a peek at my wedding experience and investment page to explore what it’s like to work with me – including planning support, starting pricing, and how to book. I hope this blog post: How Much Wedding Coverage Do You Really Need helped you choose the right amount of hours you’ll need to capture the wedding day of your dreams.
