Choosing the Perfect Wedding Photography Package: 6, 8, or 10 Hours of Coverage
Your wedding day is one of the most memorable events of your life, and capturing its beauty and emotion is essential. As a wedding photographer based in Florida, I often help couples decide between 6, 8, or 10-hour photography packages. Each option offers unique benefits depending on the pace, size, and style of your wedding day. Here's a breakdown of what each package typically covers to help you choose the one that best fits your needs.
This 10-hour package is perfect for couples who want their entire day, from the smallest details to the grand exit, fully documented. It’s ideal for larger weddings, destination celebrations, or couples incorporating multiple locations or cultural traditions.
This package may include some downtime depending on your timeline, but I’ll use that time to capture candid guest interactions and decor details. Not only that but it will give you the luxury of having the time to interact with your guests and soak in all the details of the day.
What does it cover?
- Extensive getting-ready coverage for both partners.
- Detail shots of attire, accessories, and décor.
- Full ceremony coverage, including pre-ceremony moments.
- Couples portraits, family formals, and bridal party shots.
- Reception coverage, including grand entrance, toasts, dances, cake cutting, and the send-off.
- Candid shots throughout the day and evening.
Benefits:
- Comprehensive storytelling: Every part of your day is documented beautifully.
- Stress-free schedule: Allows for a relaxed pace and extra time for spontaneous moments.
- Perfect for big events: Ideal for elaborate or multi-location weddings.
8 Hour Wedding Coverage
An 8-hour package works well for most traditional weddings. It’s designed for couples who want coverage of the major parts of their day but don’t need every moment photographed. Typically I will arrive once hair and make up is complete and you're ready to put on your wedding dress.
What does it cover?
- Comprehensive getting-ready coverage for both partners.
- Full ceremony coverage.
- Couples portraits, family formals, and bridal party shots.
- Reception highlights, including toasts, first dances, and cake cutting.
- Candid moments of the guests.
Benefits:
- Balanced coverage: Enough time to tell the story of your day without feeling rushed.
- Flexibility: Fits well with most standard wedding day timelines.
- More storytelling: Capture the energy of your celebration as it unfolds.
6 Hour Wedding Coverage
A 6-hour package is ideal for couples having smaller, more intimate weddings, elopements, or micro-weddings. If your wedding day events are condensed or don’t include elaborate traditions, this might be the perfect choice. I would usually leave before your night is over so if your planning an exit at the end of the night that you want me to capture, this might not be the best package for you.
What does it cover?
- Brief getting-ready moments of the couple.
- Ceremony coverage.
- Couples portraits and family formals.
- Reception highlights (e.g., first dance, cake cutting, toasts).
Benefits:
- Efficient coverage: Perfect for shorter timelines or smaller venues.
- Cost-effective: Ideal for couples working with a tight budget.
- Focused moments: Covers the key milestones of your day without extra fluff.
Consider your timeline
Create a rough draft of your wedding day schedule. This will help you see how much coverage you might need. I usually recommend starting with the ceremony time and working backwards. Your ceremony should end about 90 minutes before sunset. So the start time will vary depending on how long your ceremony will last. From there you can plan out the rest. I am always available to help with this!
Think about your priorities
If capturing every moment matters to you, go for longer coverage. If you want all the getting ready shots of both you and your partner, all the details, down to your end of the night sparkler exit, you'd need the package with most coverage. For the couples who want just the essentials and no fluff, or are on a tighter budget, shorter packages may suffice.
Discuss with your photographer
Share your vision and schedule a consult call to get professional advice. I am here to help and make your day as easy as possible!