Junior Rasmussen
Wedding photography packages can be structured into hourly options, half-day coverage, or full-day coverage. However, the definition of half-day and full-day can vary between photographers, with some considering eight hours a full day, and others considering it to be twelve. When booking a wedding photographer, it is important to clarify the number of hours included in the package and whether the photographer will be shooting continuously or taking breaks between events. Couples should also consider their specific needs, such as the number of locations, the size of the wedding party, and the importance of capturing specific moments or traditions. To ensure that all desired moments are captured, some couples may opt to add a second shooter or associate photographer to their package.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Split photography coverage | Continuous coverage is standard, but some photographers offer a split coverage plan where one photographer covers the ceremony and another covers the reception |
| Photographer's presence during meals | Some photographers do not photograph couples or guests during meals, while others may use this time to shoot details or take a break |
| Number of photographers | Depending on the size of the wedding party and the number of locations, you may need to add a second shooter to your package |
| Coverage time | The amount of coverage time needed varies depending on the wedding timeline, number of guests, and number of locations. Most "typical" weddings require 8 hours of coverage |
| Buffer time | It is recommended to add 15-20 minutes of buffer time to the ceremony and additional time for getting ready and transportation between locations |
| Package options | Photographers may offer half-day or full-day coverage packages, but the exact length of time included in these packages varies |
| Adding/reducing coverage | It is usually possible to add coverage time to a package, but reducing coverage time may not be accepted |
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What You'll Learn
Split photography coverage
Wedding photography packages can vary in terms of the number of hours covered and the events included. Some photographers offer "half-day" or "full-day" packages, but the exact definition of these terms can vary. For example, some photographers consider eight hours a full day, while others consider it to be twelve hours.
If you're looking for photography coverage for specific parts of your wedding day, you may want to consider "split photography coverage". This option allows you to have non-continuous hours of photography coverage on your wedding day. For example, you may want photos at your ceremony and then have the photographer join you later for photos with your larger group during a meal or another photography session.
Here's how split photography coverage typically works:
- Primary Photographer Covers the Ceremony: The primary photographer will capture the ceremony portion of the day, including getting-ready photos, first look, and couple portraits.
- Associate Photographer Covers the Reception: An associate photographer, allocated by the primary photographer, will photograph the reception event. This can include key moments such as the first dance, parent dances, toasts, cake cutting, and shots of guests on the dance floor.
- Additional Considerations: There may be an additional fee for split coverage, and the duration of the second session may have a minimum time requirement. The associate photographer's hourly rate will typically be charged for the portion they shoot.
Split coverage is usually available on weekdays and is subject to the photographer's availability. It is important to book this option in advance to ensure sufficient time for preparation and coordination.
By opting for split photography coverage, you can ensure that you have photographic memories of the key moments of your wedding day, while also working within your timeline and budget constraints.
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Continuous coverage
Most weddings can be divided into different parts, such as getting ready, the first look, the ceremony, family portraits, and the reception. Continuous coverage ensures that the photographer is present for all these significant moments and captures them in their entirety.
However, it's important to note that some photographers may not photograph guests during meals, as these may not be the most aesthetically pleasing images. Even during meals, the photographer may still be working, capturing details, reviewing images, or taking a quick break.
If you prefer to have continuous coverage for your wedding, it's essential to communicate this to your photographer. Discuss the timeline of your wedding day and the specific moments that are important to you. This will help the photographer understand your expectations and ensure they can provide the coverage you desire.
Additionally, consider the possibility of unexpected delays or changes. Building some flexibility into your timeline can help ensure that your continuous coverage is not interrupted by minor setbacks. This ""what if" time can account for potential delays in hair and makeup, transportation, or gathering guests for group portraits.
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Hourly packages
Wedding photography packages are often structured into hourly options, with most photographers offering 6, 8, and 10-hour packages. The hourly rate for wedding photographers can range from $150 to $800 per hour, depending on their experience and what is included in that time.
When considering hourly packages, it's important to factor in the time spent on tasks like editing, consultations, and travel. Additionally, the location of the wedding can impact the cost, with photographers in metropolitan areas typically charging more due to higher living costs.
If you are looking for partial coverage, some photographers offer "split photography coverage", where they will cover the ceremony, and an associate photographer will cover the reception. This option is usually available on weekdays and is subject to availability. There may be a flat rate split coverage fee on top of the coverage hours.
When booking an hourly package, it's essential to communicate your expectations clearly to the photographer. Discuss the specific moments that matter most to you, such as the first dance, parent dances, toasts, and cutting of the cake.
To make the most of your hourly package, consider adding some "what if" time to your timeline. This can help account for potential delays, such as hair and makeup taking longer than expected or transportation delays.
Remember that the pricing for wedding photography is flexible, and it's always a good idea to inquire about different options and packages that fit your budget and needs.
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Partial coverage
For example, you may want the photographer to capture the ceremony, and then have them leave before returning for photos of the reception. This can be useful if there is a large gap between the ceremony and reception, or if you only require certain parts of the day to be documented.
When considering partial coverage, it is important to communicate with your photographer to ensure that they are able to capture the moments that are most important to you. Discuss the timeline of your wedding day, including any transport time between locations, and decide which parts you want to be photographed. You should also consider how many people/combinations will be photographed, and whether you want group portraits.
It is worth noting that some photographers may have different definitions of "full-day coverage". While some consider eight hours to be a full day, others may consider it to be 12 hours. Be sure to clarify with your photographer how many hours are included in their full-day package and what those hours will cover.
Additionally, some photographers may offer the option to add on coverage later, but may not allow for cutting back coverage once it has been booked. It is also important to keep in mind that some photographers may require a minimum duration for the primary session, such as 1.5 hours, and there may be an additional fee for split coverage.
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Second shooter
A second shooter is an active second photographer who works alongside the main photographer to help cover the wedding to its full potential. They are shooting simultaneously with the main photographer, capturing all the things the main photographer won't be able to cover when working alone. This gives you more detailed coverage of your day. This is especially useful for larger weddings or weddings with multiple locations.
It is important to dress professionally as a second shooter. You should also not share images from the back of your camera when you're second shooting, as what you show may not make the cut, and you don't want to disappoint the client. You should also not be constantly checking your phone, as it doesn't look professional.
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Frequently asked questions
Partial coverage wedding photography, also known as split photography coverage, is when a couple wants non-continuous hours of photography on their wedding day. This could mean having a break in coverage between the ceremony and reception, or only capturing certain parts of the day, such as the getting-ready photos, ceremony, and key reception moments.
The number of hours of partial coverage needed depends on various factors, including the size of the wedding party, the number of locations, and the couple's preferences. Most weddings can be divided into getting ready, the first look, the ceremony, family portraits, and the reception. A safe assumption is that each bridesmaid will take about 1.5 hours to get ready, while the bride may need about 3 hours. It's recommended to add a buffer to the timeline to account for potential delays.
Partial coverage wedding photography can be a cost-effective option for couples who don't require full-day coverage. It allows them to customise their package based on their priorities and budget. It also provides flexibility, especially if there is a large gap between the ceremony and reception, or if the couple wants to change locations for photos.
Many wedding photographers offer different packages, including partial coverage options. When researching photographers, look for those who explicitly mention partial, split, or non-continuous coverage. Discuss your specific requirements with them to tailor a package that suits your needs.
When booking a partial coverage wedding photographer, it's important to communicate your expectations clearly. Create a detailed timeline of your wedding day, highlighting the moments you want to be captured. Discuss the number of locations, group portraits, and any specific requests, such as getting-ready photos or an alternate location for couple portraits. Ensure you understand the photographer's rates, including any additional fees for associate photographers or extending coverage later.
