planning advice

How to Plan for the Perfect Amount of Wedding Coverage

Can you ever have too many wedding photos? We think not! With wedding coverage, the key is finding the right balance of the time it takes to capture each moment throughout your wedding day and into the night. That’s where we come in!

Our packages start with 8 hours of coverage because we have found that to be the magic number in our nearly 20 years of experience! The hours in our packages are to be used consecutively, and 8 hours ensures you’ll have enough time to cover getting ready earlier in the day, and major reception moments in the evening! Most importantly, be sure to plan ahead. To make it easy, take this handy timeline and make it your own. But first, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Be sure to build in extra time for travel between locations. The consecutive hours means your time will start when your photographer starts shooting! 
• Allow 45 minutes of set-up time for your videographer (if you have one) before the ceremony. This helps them stake out the perfect angle for the moment you say ‘I do!’ 
• If you have two photographers and videographers, they can capture separate moments simultaneously to save more time (both sides getting ready, cocktail hour/reception details. To save even more time, gather smaller items for detail shots before your photographer arrives (rings, shoes, jewelry, garter, cufflinks, invitation suite, veil, dress, etc). 

Suggested Wedding Photography timeline:

1. Getting Ready & Detail Shots: 30 - 45 minutes or 60 - 90 minutes

Have your photographer join you in the bridal suite to snap some shots of you and your bridesmaids getting ready for the big day! You’ll definitely want these fun moments with your best girls documented.

While you’re getting ready, your photographer will have the opportunity to take detail shots of your rings, shoes, wedding invitation, and other sentimental items.

Once you’re all dolled up, it’s time to see your soon-to-be bride or groom for your heart-eyed first look (we recommend 30 minutes).

2. Wedding Party Portraits: 30 - 60 minutes

You’ll want shots with each side, your maid of honor and best man, and of course: the whole crew together!

3. Couple Portraits: 60 - 90 minutes

Snap a few shots before the ceremony, then sneak away during the reception to capture the magical glow of golden hour.

4. Family Photos: 30 - 45 minutes

To help these photos run more smoothly, give family members a heads up in advance. Tell them where they’ll need to be and when. Compile a list of the guests you want formal portraits with and designate a bridal party or family member to help gather them when it’s their turn!

5. Ceremony/Ceremony Details: 30 - 60 minutes

The amount of time allotted for the ceremony will depend on the type. Typically, religious ceremonies tend to be longer than civil ceremonies. *Remember that if you have a videographer booked, they will need 45 minutes of setup time before your ceremony!

6. Reception Details: 15 - 30 minutes before guests enter the room

You spent so much time putting together the perfect reception, now’s the time to capture it.

7. Reception: Time will vary

Ask the DJ or caterer to break down the timing and order of the reception events to ensure your wedding photographer is ready to snap these big moments:

• Grand entrance
• Cake cutting
• First dance
• Dances with parents
• Speeches
• Bouquet/garter toss
• Send off/grand exit

Now that your wedding day is all mapped out, all you need to do is live in the moment and let the cameras capture it all.