It’s one of the first questions I hear from almost every client: “How many hours of photography do I need?” And I love that people ask it, because it means they’re thinking carefully about their wedding timeline and their day — not just checking a box.
But here’s the truth: there’s no universal answer. What I can give you is a clear, honest framework based on years of photographing weddings, engagements, and family sessions across Hamilton, Burlington, Mississauga, and all of Southern Ontario. After working with hundreds of couples and families at venues like the Royal Botanical Gardens, Dundurn Castle, and along the beautiful waterfront trails of the Niagara Escarpment, I’ve developed a pretty strong sense of what works — and what leaves people wishing they’d booked a little differently.
“The most common regret I hear? Not the cost of adding an extra hour — but not having enough time to capture the moments that mattered most.”
Let me walk you through exactly how I think about coverage, what the right range looks like for each session type, and the factors that genuinely move the needle.
The #1 Mistake Clients Make
Without question, the most common mistake I see is booking too few hours. It almost always comes from the same place: clients look at the price difference between a 6-hour and an 8-hour package and think, “We don’t need that extra time.” But photography hours aren’t like hotel checkout — you can’t always just extend on the day.
When you’re short on time, everyone feels it. Getting ready runs long (it always does). The family formal photos take longer than expected because someone’s always missing from the frame. The golden hour portraits you dreamed about get cut short because we need to get to the reception. And those in-between, unscripted moments — the ones that become your favourite photos — simply don’t happen when we’re rushing.
How I Actually Figure Out What You Need
When a new client reaches out, one of the first things I do is walk through a rough timeline with them. Not because I need everything planned to the minute, but because it helps us both see where the time actually goes. Two factors I always pay attention to:
Getting Ready Logistics
Getting-ready coverage is one of the most underestimated parts of a photography day. Hair and makeup, the dress going on, the first look at yourself in the mirror — these are emotional, beautiful moments. But they also take longer than people expect, especially when there’s a bridal party involved or multiple rooms at a venue. If you want this captured properly, we need to account for it in your hours.
Guest Count & Family Size
The bigger the group, the longer everything takes. Family formals with 4 people? We’re done in 15 minutes. Family formals with 30 people across divorced families, step-parents, and three generations? That’s closer to 45–60 minutes. I always ask about family dynamics early so we can budget time accordingly and no one feels rushed through a once-in-a-lifetime photo.
When clients push back on hours because of budget — which is totally understandable — I don’t just say “trust me.” I pull up a timeline and show them, visually, where the time goes. Once you can see that getting ready + ceremony + portraits + family formals realistically fills 6 hours before we’ve even gotten to cocktail hour, the math starts to make sense.
My Recommended Ranges by Session Type
These are starting points — your day may need more or less based on the factors below.
My Recommended Ranges by Session Type
These are starting points — your day may need more or less based on the factors below.
Key Considerations
The 4 Things That Change Your Number
Number of Locations
Every location change adds 15–30 minutes of travel and transition time. Multiple venues? Budget accordingly.
Family Size & Dynamics
Larger families with complex dynamics need more time for formals. I ask about this up front so no one feels rushed.
Getting Ready Coverage
If you want the prep moments captured — and you should — build in at least 90 minutes before the ceremony.
Your Pace as a Couple
Some couples move quickly; others like to linger and soak it in. I read your energy and adjust — but more relaxed couples need more time.
Local Venues I Know Inside & Out
Knowing a venue means knowing where the light falls, where the hidden spots are, and how to make the most of every minute there.
So… Is There a Magic Number?
Kind of. There are clear ranges by session type that work for most people — and those are what I start with. But your day has its own shape, and cookie-cutter packages rarely fit anyone perfectly.
What I always tell clients: think about the moments you absolutely cannot miss, then work backwards. If you need getting-ready coverage, portraits at two locations, family formals with a big crew, and solid reception coverage — we’re talking 9–10 hours minimum. If you’re doing an intimate ceremony with a small guest list and one location? We might do beautifully with 6–7.
The most popular package length I offer hits a sweet spot for most clients — and I’m genuinely happy to say that because I’ve seen the results. But I never just rubber-stamp a package. Every consultation includes a timeline walkthrough so we can be confident together that what you’re booking actually fits your day.
“I’d rather spend 20 minutes on a call building your timeline than have you look back at your wedding photos wishing we’d captured more.”
If you’re planning a wedding, engagement session, or family portrait in Hamilton, Burlington, Mississauga, or anywhere across Southern Ontario — I’d love to help you figure out exactly what you need. No pressure, no upselling. Just an honest conversation about your day.
Curious how much time is needed? Check out – Free Wedding Photography Timeline Generator
Let’s Build Your Perfect Timeline
Book a free discovery call and I’ll walk you through exactly how many hours your wedding needs — based on your day, your family, and your vision.
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