How to Choose the Right Amount of Photography & Videography Coverage for Your Wedding Day.

One of the most common questions I hear from couples is: “How many hours of coverage do we actually need?” This completely depends on your wedding day plans, your priorities, and the moments you don’t want to miss.

Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a full-day celebration, understanding what each coverage option typically includes can help you make the best decision.

Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you decide between 6, 8, or 10 hours of photography and videography coverage.

You deserve to have all of your must have & in between moments captured; each wedding is unique so don't try to fit yours into a premade box.

6 Hours: Perfect for Intimate Weddings

Six hours of coverage typically works the best for couples that are hosting a smaller, more intimate wedding. This option is ideal for couples who want to capture the most meaningful moments of their shorter celebration without a long day of coverage. Typically, a 6-hour package includes either the final part of getting ready or detailed shots such as rings, invitations, and styled flatlays. Coverage extends through the ceremony, includes solo and couples portraits, wedding party and family photos, as well as key reception moments like dinner, toasts, and the first dances. Most 6-hour packages wrap up just before the dance floor opens fully, so while you’ll capture the essential celebrations and connection, the late-night party won’t be included. This option is perfect for couples who value quality over quantity and are planning a relaxed, intimate day.

SAMPLE TIMELINES * Based off of a 4:00pm Ceremony Start

8 Hours: The Most Popular Choice

Eight hours of coverage is the sweet spot for most weddings and the most popular choice for couples. It allows for a full day without feeling rushed, while still capturing all of the essential moments. Typically, 8 hours covers a portion of the getting ready process for both partners, including final touches and personal details such as flatlay, rings and stationary. You’ll have full ceremony coverage, family and wedding party photos, and more extensive couples portraits, often at multiple locations. Reception coverage usually includes the grand entrance, first dances, toasts, cake cutting, and candid moments with guests. With 8 hours, you also typically get the first part of the dance party and even a mock wedding exit if the timeline allows, giving a great sense of the celebration’s energy while still wrapping up before the night ends. This package is ideal for couples who want a complete storytelling experience of their day without stretching coverage to the full night.

SAMPLE TIMELINES * Based off of a 4:00pm Ceremony Start

10 Hours: Full-Day Coverage

For couples who want every single moment of their wedding day documented, 10 hours is considered full-day coverage. This option is perfect for longer wedding days, multiple venues, or when you want maximum flexibility to include every detail and event. Ten-hour coverage typically starts with early getting ready shots for both partners, including hair, makeup, and all the small details. Many couples include a first look during this time, as well as extended portraits of the couple and wedding party before the ceremony. You’ll have full ceremony coverage, family photos, cocktail hour and extended reception coverage. This package usually captures the entire reception, including all dances, speeches, candid guest moments, and a full end-of-night exit. Ten hours ensures no moment goes undocumented, creating a complete cinematic story from the first preparations through the final celebration.

SAMPLE TIMELINES * Based off of a 4:00pm Ceremony Start

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right coverage comes down to your wedding style, timeline, and priorities.

Six hours works beautifully for intimate or minimalist weddings where the focus is on the ceremony, portraits, and key reception moments.

Eight hours is the most popular choice, covering all the essentials plus the start of the celebration and first part of the dance party.

Ten hours is full-day coverage, perfect for couples who want a complete story of their day, including a full end-of-night exit.

No matter which option you choose, your photographer and videographer are there to tell the story of your wedding day. By selecting coverage that fits your vision and timeline, you’ll ensure your memories are preserved beautifully for years to come.

CAPTURING YOUR LOVE

Anywhere your love story leads, I would love to connect with you. Let’s chat about your dream coverage and explore the wedding packages that Bethany Sanny Photo and Film offers.

Hi there! Im Bethany Sanny your new celebrator of love.

My goal is to be a resource and a supporter during this process!

It is an honor & I am grateful you are here!

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