How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Photography Package
Wedding photography packages can feel overwhelming when you’re just starting your wedding planning. Many couples initially think the number of hours is the most important factor—4 or 6 hours, maybe with a second photographer—but the real key is understanding your priorities.
Before choosing a package, ask yourself:
Do you want a full story of your day from getting ready to the last party shots?
Are candid, real-emotion photos more important than posed portraits?
Do you want a printed wedding album, or are digital files enough to print and share as you like?
Start with Your Wedding Date and Timeline
The sunset time on your wedding day is a major factor. For example, on a midsummer day, sunset may be at 9:00 pm—the perfect time for romantic couple portraits. These quiet, magical moments often become the highlight photos that go on your wall or album and are cherished for generations.
From there, you can plan backward to determine the start of coverage. If you want party shots after sunset (say the party kicks off at 10:00 pm) and you book an 8-hour package, your photographer should arrive around 2:00 pm. This ensures you capture all the most important moments, from polished detail shots to those spontaneous, candid memories.
The Getting-Ready Photos
The beginning of the day sets the stage for your wedding story. Details and emotions matter.
Here’s what I capture:
Dress, shoes, veil, jewelry, flowers, and decor
Makeup almost complete, candid emotions of bridesmaids and family
Putting on the dress or tuxedo (with privacy respected)
Candid interactions and laughter
Tip: Even if you aren’t detail-focused, a photographer can arrive later—just before makeup is finished—or meet at the venue for a quick portrait session.
Groom Prep
The groom’s preparation is just as important. Candid moments with groomsmen, finishing touches, and solo portraits are captured. Having a second shooter ensures nothing is missed and coverage from multiple angles.
Ceremony and Family Photos
Ceremony: usually 30 minutes
Family group shots: often 1 hour, depending on family size
Fun bridal party and romantic couple shots follow, with travel time accounted for if needed
Tip: Schedule a buffer after the ceremony for guests to congratulate you—this can take longer than expected. A proper shot list ensures no important family member is missed.
Reception Coverage
First dance
Parent dances
Speeches
Dinner
Dessert and cake cutting
Timing varies depending on sunset and your priorities. If you want everything captured within an 8-hour package, planning is crucial—but with longer coverage, you can truly enjoy the day without worrying about missing a moment.
Why Full-Day Coverage Matters
Starting early, including traditions, games, or multiple locations, your wedding day can stretch from 5 am to 2 am. Every part of the day tells a story: getting ready, ceremony, family interactions, sunset portraits, speeches, dancing, and spontaneous moments.
It’s up to you to decide which parts are most important and deserve to be captured forever. Many couples initially plan for a 6-hour package—but when we map out a realistic timeline, they realize that a 12-hour full-day package is the only way to truly capture every precious moment.
With full-day coverage, you won’t miss:
Quiet early moments
Detailed getting-ready shots
Candid family and guest interactions
Sunset couple portraits
Late-night dancing and celebrations
A longer package lets you enjoy your day fully, knowing every detail and emotion is preserved.
Questions to Ask Before Booking a Wedding Photography Package
Can the package be customized?
How many photographers will cover my day?
Does coverage include travel time?
Are albums, prints, or digital files included?
How are sunset or romantic shots handled?
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right wedding photography package is about prioritizing the moments that matter most to you. Focus on capturing the story of your day—not just the hours. With proper planning and the right package, your wedding photos will be a lasting memory to cherish forever.
