As a Saratoga NY Wedding Photographer of many years, I have worked with many different couples on their special day. One of the very first questions I get asked by couples is “How much time do we really need for Wedding Photos?” The first thing I would recommend is to sit down together as a couple and discuss what you feel comfortable with in terms of budget as well as amount of face time with a camera. Do you think you want a Wedding Photographer for the entire day or just part of the day?
Should We Plan For All Day Wedding Photography Services?
Let’s start by saying that every single wedding is unique and every couple has different goals. In most cases, many photographers offer some sort of “full day” coverage that is approximately between eight and ten hours. This is considered a full-service event that starts with the bride and sometimes the groom getting ready. It usually ends after at least some reception photography.
News Flash–Not every couple needs or wants full day wedding photography services. In recent years, smaller, more intimate weddings have become popular. In many cases, all the day’s events take place at one venue as opposed to travelling to a Church, Park and Reception venue. We started offering an Intimate Wedding Package for couples who want great professional wedding photos but do not need eight hours of Photography time. We also offer opportunities by the hour for couples who are either eloping or just need a few formal photos.
Wedding Day Timeline Considerations
Take some time with your significant other and discuss whether you want photos of the getting ready portion of the wedding day. Other things to consider might be:
- Do we want a First Look or are we ok with doing photos during Cocktail Hour?
- How long is our Wedding Ceremony? A full Mass takes twice the time a simple ceremony does.
- Are we travelling to different locations or is everything happening at one venue? If you are going to more than one location, you might want to make sure you have some extra time.
- Do we have large extended family groups we want photographed? Keep in mind more groups take more time.
- How important are photos of the Reception?
All the above items will impact your Wedding Day Timeline, so you definitely need to be talking with your Wedding Photographer about them. At our Studio we often begin working on a preliminary Timeline with our couples so we maximize our time together. Having a Timeline in place ensures all the different vendors are on the same page.
Finally, your Wedding Photos document the story of your day. How do you want to remember it? There is really no right or wrong here, so don’t be afraid to ask if you can customize the coverage.
If you enjoyed this post, you might also enjoy Why A Micro Wedding Might Be the Best Choice You Make.
Are you ready to book a Wedding Photographer? Use our Contact Form or call (518) 584-4237 to get in touch today.
