Full Day of Wedding Photography Coverage
A Full Day of Wedding Coverage typically starts at 8 hours. I find 8 hours is usually the sweet spot to capture the following:
◈ Bridal + Groom Wedding Prep
◈ 1st Look (optional)
◈ Wedding Formals
◈ Ceremony
◈ Wedding Reception
Based on the number of activities, distance between locations, and traffic, additional time can be added to ensure that you get everything! To give you a better understanding of how photographers utilize service hours, I’ve simplified the break - read on below!
Wedding Prep ◈ 2.5-3 Hours
Bridal and Groom Prep are essential to your Wedding Day. Some moments are documented posed or arranged, while others are candid, including the little details that make your wedding significant: sentimental items, attire, Wedding Party gifts, jewelry and accessories.
Bridal Prep ◈ 1:30 - 2:30
Groom Prep ◈ 1:00 - 1:30
First Look ◈ 15 Minutes
A First Look is a new tradition couples are implementing on their Wedding Day. Weddings are very fast paced, and sometimes, the Bride and Groom will have very little time to themselves after the ceremony. A First Look provides an intimate moment shared just between the couple. It is also a good opportunity to incorporate a mini Bridal and Groom Session or knock out Formal Photos of the Wedding Party and immediate family members that are available before the ceremony.
Wedding Formals ◈ 20 - 30 Minutes
Wedding Formals don’t have to be just posed; they can also be candid and fun! Minimize the time spent taking formals by including a First Look, or creating a detailed list of all immediate family members a week prior to the wedding date (i.e. Bride + MOB, Groom + FOG, Bride and Groom with MOB + FOB, etc). Ensure that everyone is where they need to be at the designated time listed on the Wedding Day Event Timeline beforehand (discuss this with your Planner, Event Coordinator AND family you trust that will assist in this process). The more organized this event on your wedding day is, the faster this process will go!
Wedding Ceremony ◈ 10 minutes - 1 Hour
Wedding Ceremony times vary based on religion and spiritual context. Catholic Weddings tend to last around an hour, while Non-traditional and smaller ceremonies last no longer than 20 minutes. Unlike Wedding Prep and Formals, wedding ceremonies happen in live time. Providing your Wedding Photographer with a Program is helpful if one is available. Fine comb the details of the ceremonial activities with your photographer so that they’re able to capture every little detail.
Ceremony + Reception Details ◈ 20-25 Minutes
Ceremony and Reception Details are also an integral part of your investment. They bring to life your ideas that compliment your personalities and make your Wedding Day beautiful. If you’ve invested in decor, it is best to make sure both the ceremony and reception area is completely clear of guests and vendors so that your photographer may capture all of the details like the alter, cake, flowers, and table set ups. The best time to do this is before the Ceremony and during the Cocktail Hour. A 2nd Photographer might be needed to photograph the spaces while the Lead Photographer completes another part of the Wedding Day Timeline.
The Wedding Reception - 3 Hours
Now that the ceremony is over, it’s time to get the party really started! Most Wedding Receptions last 3 hours, and include several events to make your day complete: Wedding Party Introductions, First Dances, Toasts, Greek Scrolls, Cake Cutting, Bouquet and Garter Toss, and if you’re in NOLA, the traditional 2nd Line! This is also a good time for candid photos of you and your guests partying, or posed photos of your guests that are willing to take pictures!
