How many hours should you book your Photographer for?

Marie · June 24, 2009

This would be great if some Brides who have been there and done that could help answer this question.

I guess a lot of it depends on what you want...in my case, we have the photographer booked for 8 hours,......Im thinking I want him there for everything, the meal, the cake cutting, dancing on the beach, etc etc. Al ot of friends told me not to worry-they'll take pics, but Im not sure I can trust my friends after the 3rd or 4th cocktail! LOL

To the previos wedding couples.....was it worth booking the photographer for as long as you did? Do youwish you had booked for longer? Any advice would be great,...as it really is a huge cost for so long--Im just curious.

drbrainfreeze · June 25, 2009

I booked my photog for 6 hours and he captured us both getting ready, ceremony, all portraits, cake cutting, toasts, formal dances and a lot of dancing and drinking He did not shoot once we started eating as that is a little uncomfortable (a lot of people don't like being shot while chowing down) and also because he was eating with us.

8 hours is sufficient and should be pleanty of time. What time is your ceremony? I'd say it is more than worth the cost. Its the best decision we made.

Misha Earle · June 25, 2009

Hi!

When I'm asked by brides how long they should book for, I tell them that its dependent on how many guests they are having, what the itinery is and of course how much do they want covered. You have to weigh up whether or not you are willing to sacrifice "getting ready pics" or "some of the reception.

I think 3 hrs is perfect for "just the couple" weddings or small groups, 5 hours is great for most weddings and 10 is for those who really want it ALL covered. You can arrange for cake cutting and toasts to happen earlier as well to make sure the photographer is there. If you need to use friends and family to take pics, let them take the party pics. I hope this helps!