Photographer Hours: How Many Do You Need and How Much Will They Cost?
Planning a wedding means juggling a million details, and photography is one of the biggest. Too few hours and you miss key moments; too many and you waste money. Let’s break down how to decide the perfect photographer hours for your day and what to expect on the price side.
How Many Hours Do You Actually Need?
Most couples aim for 4‑6 hours of coverage. That usually covers the ceremony, a quick family portrait session, and the early part of the reception. If you have a long dinner or multiple events (like a pre‑wedding brunch), add another hour or two. A 3‑hour package works for a simple ceremony‑only wedding, but you’ll lose most of the reception fun.
Ask yourself three questions:
- When does the ceremony start, and how long does it run?
- Do you want photos of the first dance and cake cutting?
- Are you planning a cocktail hour where guests mingle and you need candid shots?
If you answer “yes” to any of those, add extra hours. Most photographers charge per hour, so you can customize the package without paying for unused time.
What Affects Photographer Pricing?
Price isn’t just about the clock. Here are the main factors you’ll see on a quote:
- Experience level: A seasoned photographer commands higher rates, but they also bring reliability and a polished style.
- Location: Photographers in major cities like London charge more than those in smaller towns.
- Equipment and assistants: If the photographer brings extra gear or a second shooter, the cost goes up.
- Post‑processing: Editing, album design, and digital galleries are often billed separately.
- Travel fees: Destination weddings add mileage or accommodation costs.
In 2025 the average rate for a 3‑hour wedding shoot sits around £800‑£1,200 in the UK. Add-ons like a second shooter can add £200‑£400. Remember that a cheap photographer might skip essential editing or deliver low‑resolution files, which could cost you down the line.
To stay within budget, do a quick cost‑breakdown:
- Base hourly rate (e.g., £400 per hour).
- Number of hours you need.
- Any extra services (second shooter, album, travel).
- Taxes or service fees.
Subtract the total from your overall wedding budget and see if it fits. If it’s too high, consider trimming the hours or looking for a photographer with a simpler package.
Finally, talk to your photographer about a detailed timeline. A clear schedule helps them capture everything efficiently, which can sometimes reduce the number of hours you need.
Bottom line: figure out the moments you can’t miss, match those to the right number of hours, and compare quotes based on experience, location, and extra services. With a solid plan, you’ll get beautiful photos without blowing your budget.
Do Photographers Stay the Whole Wedding? What You Need to Know
Wondering if your photographer will be there from start to finish at your wedding? This article breaks down what typical photography coverage looks like, what affects how long photographers stay, and how you can make sure all the key moments are captured. Get the facts, some useful tips, and real insights to make the most of your wedding photography. If you're stressing over how long to book your photographer, we've got you covered with everything you need to know. Let's clear up what to expect, and how to plan the photography coverage that fits your day and budget.