How Many Hours of Wedding Day Coverage Do You Need?

I'm a Virginia-based wedding photographer with a heart for serving couples who lead with love and legacy. My approach is intuitive, joyful, and deeply rooted in purpose.

Hi, I'm Chantel

One of the questions I hear most from couples as we begin planning is, “How many hours of photography coverage will we really need?” The answer varies because every wedding is beautifully unique. Whether you’re hosting an elegant garden affair, celebrating with an intimate courthouse ceremony, or designing a full weekend experience, your photography coverage should reflect the natural rhythm and heartfelt meaning of your day.

Wedding photography goes beyond simply documenting a schedule—it’s about thoughtfully preserving the emotions, connections, and moments that make your day truly yours. With this guide, I’ll walk you through what each collection offers, highlight what might be missed with shorter coverage, and help you choose the option that best honors your one-of-a-kind story.

What’s Inside:

The Legacy Collection – Unlimited Wedding Weekend Coverage

For couples who want it all. No compromises, no rushing, and no missed moments.

The Legacy Collection is designed as a truly bespoke experience. It includes unlimited wedding day coverage, a fully personalized engagement session anywhere in the U.S. or Europe, and coverage of your welcome or rehearsal event. Every moment of your weekend is thoughtfully captured with intention, artistry, and ease.

What makes this collection truly extraordinary is not just the extensive coverage but how it gently allows your timeline to breathe. Without the pressure of a strict schedule, you’re free to be fully present in every moment. As a result, moments unfold naturally, and I have the time and space to craft both immersive storytelling and timeless, editorial portraits. In essence, this is luxury without the rush, an experience designed around you.

What’s included:

  • Full wedding day coverage (morning to final send-off)
  • Getting ready for both partners:
    • Flatlays and heirloom details
    • Hair, makeup, and joyful prep moments
    • Extended solo bridal portraits
  • First look, wedding party portraits, and family formals
  • Ceremony captured from multiple angles
  • Cocktail hour, toasts, and reception storytelling
  • Golden hour portraits and second look coverage
  • Full dance floor and optional after-party
  • Grand exit, sparkler send-off, or night portraits
  • Welcome or rehearsal event coverage
  • Personalized engagement session (anywhere in U.S. or Europe)

This collection is ideal for destination weddings, multi-day celebrations, or couples who want to fully immerse themselves in their wedding weekend—knowing every chapter will be preserved with purpose. If you’re dreaming of a full wedding weekend with no compromises, take a look at Monai and Niquo’s stunning celebration featured on Carats & Cake. Their wedding beautifully showcases how unlimited coverage preserves every moment with ease and artistry.

The Heirloom Collection – 9 Hours of Coverage

The Heirloom Collection is my most popular choice for couples celebrating with a traditional wedding timeline across one or two nearby locations. With 9 hours of coverage, we have the flexibility to tell a complete story—from the final swipe of lipstick to your grand sparkler exit.

Also, this includes a meaningful engagement session. We’ll spend time capturing portraits that reflect your relationship and lifestyle—perhaps at your favorite café, a quiet garden, or a scenic rooftop that feels like your own little world.

What’s included:

  • Getting ready (final touches, flatlays, candids)
  • First look, full wedding party, and family portraits
  • Ceremony
  • Cocktail hour and reception coverage
  • Golden hour portraits
  • First dances, cake cutting, and grand exit

What is not covered:

  • Hair/makeup or extended solo bridal portraits
  • Outfit changes or second look portraits
  • After-party coverage
  • Travel between distant venues
  • Rehearsal or welcome dinner

If you love a thoughtfully paced, elegant day, check out this classic DIY vineyard wedding featured on Tidewater & Tulle. It’s a great example of how nine hours of coverage can capture a full, meaningful story.

The Intimate Collection – 6 Hours of Coverage

For intimate celebrations with under 50 guests, The Intimate Collection offers thoughtful, minimal coverage. It’s perfect for elopements, courthouse weddings, or simple single-location days. If your celebration is intentionally brief, this collection ensures the moments that matter most are preserved with care.

What’s included:

  • Final getting ready touches (usually for one person)
  • Ceremony
  • Couple portraits and family photos
  • Reception (partial coverage)

What’s not included:

  • Full getting ready or solo bridal portraits
  • First look and wedding party portraits
  • Golden hour portraits or outfit changes
  • Majority of the reception or exit
  • Any delays or travel between venues

This option is perfect when the focus is on your vows, the love you share, and a simple, sweet timeline. If you’re imagining more detailed storytelling or extended editorial portraits, you may want to explore The Heirloom or Legacy Collections.

Final Thoughts: Your Coverage Should Reflect Your Story

Choosing your photography hours isn’t just about the number—it’s about the kind of story you want to tell. No two weddings are alike, and I love working with each couple to build a collection that reflects their day in a deeply personal way.

Whether you’re dreaming of a relaxed morning filled with bridal portraits, a sparkling exit followed by an after-party, or an immersive wedding weekend, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Together, we’ll create a custom coverage plan that perfectly fits your vision and priorities.

If you’re unsure where to begin, I’d be happy to walk you through the options. I can also share a sample 9-hour wedding timeline and a full Legacy Collection weekend to help you see what’s possible.

Let’s create something beautiful together.
Explore my experience here or contact me to begin the conversation.

With gratitude,

Chantel

These images were photographed for Amative Creative. It’s always great to collaborate with fellow artists in this industry.

Black and white portrait of the groom holding the bride in an intimate embrace—timeless, film-inspired wedding photography by Chantel Cruz

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hi, I'm Chantel

I strive to capture the authentic joy, love, and emotion of your celebration, creating timeless images that will allow you to relive those cherished memories. My hope is to not only document your wedding, but to be a trusted guide through a seamless and unforgettable experience.

Owner & lead photographer – inspired by all things serene and timeless.

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Virginia.