Photographer length?

Depends how long the ceremony is. Personally I’d account for maybe 30 mins before the ceremony, during the ceremony, about 30 mins-an hour between the ceremony and reception, and then maybe the first 30 mins of the reception.

I think the average length is 8 hours but that’s all dependent on if you want getting ready photos, how long your ceremony is, how long reception is, etc

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I'm having an intimate, family only beach ceremony (20 people max), officiant said 15-20 mins, and then dinner immediately after (not an actual reception). How long would I need a photographer? I want pictures of us with our 4 year old, a few family pictures, & pictures at the restaurant of the cake (possibly a few more of us inside so no squinty eyes). Thanks

Depending on the photographer they may actually have a minimum amount of hours needed. but it sounds like you just need a few hours overall

Like PP said, that will depend on the rate of the photographer. Most have a base starting rate like first 4 hours are so many dollars then an hourly rate. If that is the case, maybe they can shoot when you are getting ready, rings, a first look, or a pretend first look were you both are behind something but touching hands.

We booked ours for 4 hours, but I want some getting ready & details of our reception venue so I may add on an hour. Our wedding is around the same scale and length.

Funny enough I was advised for 4 hours. Factor in do you want getting ready pics. My FH and I are eloping and just having two friends. I am thinking 3 will be enough but I already paid for 4 so that is fine. Basically we are having a 15 minute ceremony, cutting cake at the venue which we only have for three hours and then afterwards we are taking our friends to a rooftop for dinner sans photographers. However, I know there are many pics I would like as our venue has a beautiful patio and it is near the marina and also think of time of day. I wanted pre, during and post sunset pics. Have you looked into types of pics you want with your FH? That may also give you an idea. I would say at least 3 hours but ask the photographer.

I’d recommend two hours, depending on how far the dinner setting is from the beach! As a photographer I know how fast an hour can go taking pictures, and this way you can get the ceremony, family pictures, and plenty of dinner pictures (and photographer prep time) while still having adequate coverage. Congratulations!!