What’s Included in a Wedding Photography Package? A Complete Breakdown
So you've started reaching out to wedding photographers, and now you're staring at a list of packages trying to figure out what it all means. Hours of coverage, second shooters, engagement sessions, online galleries, sneak peeks — it can feel like a lot when all you really want is someone to show up and take beautiful photos of the best day of your life.
I hear you. Let's break it down in a way that actually makes sense, so you know exactly what to look for and what questions to ask before you book your wedding photographer.
Hours of Coverage
This is usually the foundation of any wedding photography package. Hours of coverage refers to how long your photographer will be shooting on your wedding day — and it matters more than you might think. A four-hour package typically covers the ceremony and some portraits, which works great for intimate weddings, elopements, or courthouse ceremonies. A six to eight-hour package is where most full weddings land — it gives your photographer time to capture getting ready, the ceremony, family portraits, couple's portraits during golden hour, the reception, toasts, the first dance, and the send-off. Some photographers, myself included, offer eight-plus hours for couples who want every single moment documented from start to finish. My advice? Think about the moments that matter most to you and make sure your coverage window includes them.
Engagement Session
A lot of wedding photography packages include a complimentary engagement session, and I always encourage my couples to take advantage of it. It's not just about getting beautiful photos for your save-the-dates or your wedding website — though that's a big bonus. It's about us getting to know each other before the wedding day. By the time I show up on your wedding morning, I want you to already feel comfortable with me, to already trust that I know how to bring out the best in you two. That's what the engagement session does. It's a practice run where we build that connection so the wedding day feels natural and easy. Popular spots for engagement sessions in Boise include Camel's Back Park, the Boise River Greenbelt, Bogus Basin, Table Rock, and Hyde Park.
Photo Delivery and Online Gallery
Once the wedding is over and I've spent my days in the editing room, your photos are delivered through a beautifully designed online gallery. This isn't just a file dump — it's a curated, shareable space where you and your family can view, download, and relive every moment. Most photographers deliver anywhere from 300 to 800+ edited images depending on the length of coverage, and turnaround time varies. I typically deliver a sneak peek within 48 hours of your wedding day and the full gallery within two to four weeks. When you're comparing packages, ask about turnaround time, how many photos you can expect, and whether there are any limits on downloads or sharing. You should be able to share your gallery with anyone you want — these are your memories.
Second Shooter
Some wedding photography packages include a second shooter — a second photographer who works alongside the lead photographer to capture angles, moments, and perspectives that one person simply can't get alone. This is especially valuable for larger weddings, multi-location days, or if you want coverage of both the bride and groom getting ready at the same time. Not every wedding needs a second shooter, but for full-day weddings with big guest lists or complex timelines, it can make a real difference in the depth and variety of your gallery.
What's NOT Usually Included
It's also worth knowing what most wedding photography packages don't include. Travel and accommodation costs are usually extra if your wedding is outside the photographer's base area.
Finding the Right Package for Your Day
At the end of the day, the best wedding photography package is the one that fits your timeline, your priorities, and your story. You don't need every bell and whistle — you just need a photographer who cares about capturing the real moments and delivering something that makes you feel it all over again. If you're trying to figure out which package is right for you, I'd love to talk through it. Every wedding is different, and I'm always happy to customize something that fits your day perfectly. Reach out and let's build something together.
