Maine & NH Wedding Photographer | You Don’t Need 10 Hours of Coverage—Fight Me

I said what I said.

Unless you’re planning a sparkler exit, a grand finale, or something very specific that happens late at night… you probably don’t need 10 hours of wedding photo coverage.

Somewhere along the way, the wedding industry decided that more hours = better photos. That if you don’t document every single second from hair rollers to the last drunk uncle wobbling toward the Uber, you’re doing it wrong.

Hard disagree.

Here’s the truth: the best moments of a wedding day are concentrated. They’re emotional, fast, and meaningful. And they almost always happen earlier than people think.

Getting ready.
The first look (or the nerves right before the aisle).
The ceremony.
That “holy shit we’re married” feeling right after.
Family photos.
Golden hour or stormy sky portraits (you know my stance).
The start of the party when everyone still has energy.

That’s the gold.

After that? Things tend to level out. People are sweaty. Drinks are flowing. The photos don’t suddenly get more meaningful just because the clock is still running.

I’d rather give you intentional, dialed-in coverage than stay longer just to stay longer.

Shorter coverage also keeps the day moving. You’re not dragging things out for the sake of photos. You’re present. You’re actually enjoying your wedding instead of wondering where your photographer disappeared to for hour nine.

Now—exceptions exist.
If you want:

• a sparkler exit

• a night ceremony

• a cultural tradition that happens late

• a very specific moment you care deeply about

• Or, and yes, this has been a thing, a shy, low-key groom turns raging party animal after a few drinks and the bride hires me to stay just to get pictures of him at the afterparty.

Then yes. Longer coverage makes sense. No fighting necessary.

But if you’re booking 10 hours because you think you should? Nah.

Book coverage that fits your actual day, not some imaginary rulebook. Your wedding isn’t better because it’s longer. It’s better because it’s honest, emotional, and well-documented where it actually matters.

And trust me—your feet (and your sanity) will thank you.