How long do you need a Photographer?

Throughout the years of experience talking to the couples, the very common question they ask is How long do they need the photographer for their wedding. 

 

I always advise allocating a time to sit down together and start with a simple timeline of the day. It depends on how they do it but I can start with 8 hours for example. It is common to get an 8-hour package if they want the Getting ready photos. Keep in mind the traveling time as well if they are in different locations. On some occasions, the Groom & the Bride are in the same hotel but different rooms which is very convenient. This can work for a 6-hour package as well but the photography time in the reception is limited - as much as possible to get the photos of the important details in the beginning. Usually, the couple enters the reception and proceed straight to cake cutting. 

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The 10 hours package includes the preparation to exit sparklers. This is the package if the couple wants to get every detail of the day. This can avoid stress on figuring out where to put the photography side of it. 

 

Below is the example of the Wedding Day Timeline

 

1PM - 1:30PM Photographer Arrives | Groom Preparation
Groomsmen & with the Groom. Take photos of the details Groom getting ready. Having a drink with the Groomsmen.

 

1:30 - 2PM Travel time to the Bride

 

2PM - 3:30PM Bride Preparation

Take photos of rings, dresses, invitations, etc. Bride with the Hair & Makeup artist final retouch. Bridesmaids/Bride with their matching robes. Bride with the Dress. Bridal portraits with the Bridesmaids Photos. 

 

3:30 - 4PM Travel time to Ceremony

 

4PM - 4:30PM Ceremony

 

4:30 - 5PM Group/Family Photos

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5:30 - 6:30 Cocktail Hour For the Guests

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5PM - 6:30PM Bridal Party Photos & Bride & Groom Portraits

 

7 - 10PM Reception
Welcome Toasts From Hosts, Dinner, Cake Cutting, Bridal Party Toasts (speeches), First Dance, Open Dance Floor, Grand Exit

   

Here are other references on the wedding day timeline

https://www.brides.com/story/reception-timeline-tips
https://www.theknot.com/content/sample-wedding-weekend-timelines

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Hopefully, this helps x

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