How Many Hours of Wedding Photography Coverage Do You Need?
May 20, 2026 · San Diego · Budget & Pricing · Wedding Planning
Coverage hours are one of the trickiest things to estimate when booking a photographer. Here's a simple way to think about it for your San Diego wedding.
6 hours
Good for smaller or single-location weddings. Covers late getting-ready through the first hour or so of the reception—great if you're doing a first look to fit portraits in.
8 hours (most popular)
Our most-booked option. Covers getting ready, ceremony, portraits, and most of the reception including first dances and toasts.
10+ hours
Best for larger weddings, multiple venues, or cultural celebrations with several events. Ensures nothing from prep to send-off is missed.
A few tips
Add a buffer for travel between getting-ready and the venue, and remember the 'best' moments—golden-hour portraits and open dancing—happen later in the day. See pricing and our sample wedding day timeline.
Not sure?
Tell us your plan and we'll recommend the right coverage—no upselling. Get in touch.
Filed under: San Diego · Budget & Pricing · Wedding Planning