How Many Hours of Wedding Photography Do You Really Need? An Arizona Fall Brunch Wedding Example

One of the most common questions couples ask me is: how many hours of coverage do we actually need for our wedding photographer? This intimate Arizona fall brunch wedding is the perfect real-life example of how the hours add up, even for a short intentional celebration.

I had photographed this couple’s Arizona engagement photos earlier in the year in downtown Phoenix, so when their wedding day came around, I already understood their style: simple, thoughtful, and genuine. Their wedding took place in early October with a ceremony starting at 11 a.m. and wrapping by early afternoon.

At first, the bride thought two hours of coverage would be enough. After walking through the day together, we realized six hours was the sweet spot, which would be enough to tell the full story without rushing. Here’s how the timeline actually broke down:

• Getting ready – ~1 hour: I arrived when the bride was about 75% ready, which allowed time for detail shots, her getting into the dress, and photos with her bridesmaids in a cozy, wine-cellar-style room.

• Travel to the venue – ~40 minutes: Travel time is something couples often forget to factor in, but it counts toward coverage.

• Portraits at the venue – ~1 hour: Bridal party photos and couple portraits took place in separate areas, which naturally adds time.

• Ceremony – ~30 minutes: Even intimate ceremonies take time, and this one started just a few minutes later than planned (which happens!).

• Family + couple portraits – ~40 minutes: Immediate family, close friends, and relaxed couple portraits right after the ceremony.

• Brunch reception – ~1.5 hours: This included speeches, cake cutting, breakfast, mingling, and final family photos.
  

On top of all that, I always build in a cushion (at least an extra hour or two) because wedding days move fast. Little delays add up, moments unfold unexpectedly, and those are often the memories couples treasure most.

Although I was officially booked for wedding photography only, I also captured video clips throughout the day. As both an Arizona wedding photographer and videographer, I naturally think in motion as well as stills. When I later shared a highlight video from the day, the bride loved it so much she decided to purchase it! A reminder of how powerful it is to preserve a wedding story in multiple ways.

A cinematic highlight of their Arizona fall brunch wedding filled with heartfelt vows, emotional moments, and timeless romance.

This Arizona fall brunch wedding proves that even a shorter celebration deserves thoughtful planning. When coverage hours are intentional, you get space for real moments, candid interactions, and a wedding gallery (and film) that feels effortless and complete.

If you’re wondering how many hours of coverage you actually need, walking through the math makes all the difference.I break down how wedding photography coverage works, what’s included, and how I help couples choose the right amount of time for their day — without overbooking or rushing moments.

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Full Day Wedding Example