One of the very first questions couples ask when planning their wedding is
“How many hours of photography do we actually need?”
The short answer is: it depends on the size, style, and flow of your day.
The good news is that once you understand how coverage works, choosing the right amount becomes much easier.
Let’s break it down in a simple way.
Elopements
Elopements are typically just the couple, sometimes with a few close friends or witnesses.
Local elopements usually need 2 to 4 hours of coverage.
This allows time for the ceremony, portraits, and a relaxed experience without rushing.
Destination elopements often require more time, even if the guest count is small.
Travel between locations, scenery, and intentional experiences usually push coverage closer to 4 to 6 hours.
Elopements are about the experience, not the schedule. Coverage flexes to match that.
Micro Weddings
Micro weddings typically have 50 guests or fewer and feel intimate but still follow a wedding day structure.
Most micro weddings need 4 to 6 hours of coverage.
This is perfect for:
• Details and getting ready moments
• Ceremony coverage
• Family photos
• Couple portraits
• A portion of the reception
Micro weddings move quickly, so having enough time helps everything feel calm instead of rushed.
Full Wedding Days
For traditional wedding days, 8 to 10 hours of coverage is the most popular choice and for good reason.
This amount of time allows us to tell the full story of your day, from start to finish, without cutting corners.
With full day coverage, you can expect:
• Getting ready moments
• Ceremony and family photos
• Wedding party and couple portraits
• Reception highlights and candid moments
• Space in the timeline for real life to happen
If you are not planning a first look, we almost always recommend leaning toward the higher end of coverage to avoid feeling pressed for time.
So… How Do You Choose?
The best rule of thumb is this:
Book the most coverage your budget comfortably allows.
More hours does not mean more posing. It means more breathing room, a smoother timeline, and a better experience overall.
If you are unsure, that is completely normal. Every wedding is different, and we help couples choose the right amount of coverage every single day.
Final Thoughts
Wedding photography is not just about how many photos you get.
It is about how your day feels while those photos are being made.
If you want help deciding which coverage fits your wedding best, I am always happy to walk through your plans and offer honest guidance.
📩 Inquire here to find the perfect coverage for your day
https://book.usesession.com/i/lK7QzGYDK
Jessica Chapman is an Alabama based wedding photographer specializing in bright, timeless imagery and refined storytelling. Her work blends documentary moments with editorial portraiture, creating photographs that feel natural, elevated, and enduring.
