Welcome to my blog. On this page you will find articles I personally write about the photography industry and my work. You will also see blogs showing the photos from many of my photo sessions.
Photographers generally have packages and pricing that are determined by a set number of hours. In this article, I’ll call them photography hours. Commonly, for example, a bride may hire a photographer for eight hours.
I have found that many prospective brides don’t know how many photography hours they need, and often under-estimate the time. Many factors come into play when deciding how many hours you will need your photographer.
Decide if you want your photographer to take photos of you and the wedding party preparing for the day. This coverage will include photos of the bride getting her hair and makeup done. It also may include photos of the bride in the bridal prep room with her bridesmaids. It can also include time with the groom in his prep room with his groomsmen. These photos often are candid shots but can also include some fun times posing with the wedding party. Getting photos during this time means the photographer has to show up pretty early.
This is a big decision. Brides and grooms need to decide if they are going to see each other before the ceremony through a “first look.” A first look is a private time that the bride and groom will see each other before the ceremony and share a few moments together. When a first look takes place, generally family photos are taken before the ceremony. This is beneficial for the photographer because these photos don’t have to be rushed. The limited time between the ceremony and reception isn’t as stressful.
Many couples, however, want to follow tradition. Brides want the first time her soon-to-be husband sees her is when she walks down the aisle. In this case the family photos will need to be taken after the ceremony.
Having family photos done before the ceremony means the photographer will need to arrive earlier in the day.
Making a bar stop means that the reception start is delayed, which will require your photographer to stay longer to capture the important reception details. This will add to your photography hours.
Couples often work with their DJ to determine the schedule for the reception. Many important reception activities, like the cake cutting, the toasts and the first dances, become part of the schedule. If these events are delayed, your photographer will need to stay at the event longer to capture images of them. If you want to reduce the time you have the photographer, schedule these important events earlier in the reception.
As owner of Lori Black Photography, I have three main packages – 8, 10 and 12 hours. I also offer smaller customized pricing for brides wanting less coverage.
This article is part of a blog series on the topic of frequently asked questions. See other articles on hiring the right photographer, do you need a second photographer, and do you need a photo album.