Why a Half Day Wedding Photography Package Might Be Perfect for Your Wedding
One of the most crucial decisions you’ll make when planning your wedding is selecting a photographer who can capture your special day without breaking the bank.
TOP TIP: To save you time: yes, Booking an experienced, high-quality wedding photographer for a half-day package is often wiser than going with a cheaper option for the entire day.
Ladies and Gentlemen, gather ’round because today we’re diving into the world of weddings—specifically, how to save a few quid without sacrificing those picture-perfect memories!
TOP TIP: Photo/video packages!
Everyone has their unique perspective and priorities when it comes to planning a wedding, and that’s perfectly okay!
The thoughts I’ve shared here come from my experiences as a wedding photographer, hearing what couples have told me before and after their big day.
I’ve noticed that about 10-20% of my bookings are half-day wedding photography packages each year, and I’m here to help you make the most of it.
REAL HALF DAY WEDDING ON MY BLOG – CLICK HERE
First things first, let’s talk about the importance of having an experienced wedding photographer who knows how to handle the big day.
Sure, you could take a chance on a cheaper option, crossing your fingers and toes that they’ll capture your magic moments—but let’s be real, do you really want to risk the best day of your life on a prayer?
TOP TIP: Want peace of mind when booking a supplier? Check if they offer a FREE Deposit Guarantee Plan. It can be a real game-changer for some!
Yes, that’s right—I offer that! :)
Learn more here about Deposit Guarantee Plan.
You’ll spend months, even years, planning every detail to perfection, and trust me, you don’t want to spend hours of that precious day wrangling your family for photos because your photographer isn’t quite sure what they’re doing, no matter how fabulous their Instagram or website looks.
But don’t worry, I’m not here to scare you—let’s talk about how to save some money without losing the magic. I know weddings are expensive; prices for wedding photographers are high (I tied the knot myself in 2019, so I’ve been through it all!). I made sure my big day went off without a hitch, and now I’m here to share my wisdom so you don’t make the same mistakes I’ve seen others stumble into.
You can see my wedding here:
https://www.dkphoto.ie/professional-wedding-photographer-plans-wedding/
TOP TIP: For many couples, a half-day photography package offers the ideal balance: it provides the coverage they need at an affordable price.
As an experienced Irish wedding photographer, I often receive inquiries from couples looking for shorter coverage.
I’m here to explain how a half-day package can be an excellent option.
While there are some limitations, I’ll explain everything below.
Here’s the thing: you can spend thousands on the most breathtaking flowers, jaw-dropping entertainment, and every other luxurious detail, but if your photos aren’t up to snuff, all those lovely things will be lost to time.
You’ll be flipping through your wedding album, wondering why the centrepieces you agonized over look like they were shot through a potato.
So, where should you never, ever skimp?
Entertainment and photography/videography—those are your must-haves. Your band and DJ will keep the dance floor hopping, and your photographer will beautifully capture every twirl and tear.
And don’t forget about hair and makeup because, let’s face it, you want to look and feel your absolute best!
So, please grab a cup of tea, and let’s chat about how to make your dream day a reality without breaking the bank!
What Does a Half-Day Photography Package Include?
You might wonder if a half-day package will cover all the important moments at your wedding.
The answer is yes—if you plan it right! Typically, a half-day package includes 4-6 hours of coverage, capturing the most significant moments of your day, from getting ready to calling for a meal no later than 5:30 pm.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Getting Ready: Capturing those intimate pre-ceremony moments with your bridal party.
- Ceremony: The heart of your day, from the walk down the aisle to the first kiss.
- Family Photos: Formal and candid shots with your closest family members.
- Bridal Photoshoot: Beautiful portraits of the couple in a scenic location.
- Drink Reception: Candid moments as your guests mingle and celebrate.
- Speeches: If planned during a drink reception, speeches can also be covered within the half-day package- more details below.
With careful planning, you can ensure that all the important moments are captured.
For instance, at a recent wedding, I photographed at Boyne Hill House, the couple opted to exclude the first dance from their coverage as they didn’t consider it essential and booked a Half-Day photography package.
After we had completed all the photos, the couple made the brilliant decision to organize an early ceremony and speeches at the drink reception, just before the meal was served.
This allowed them to make the most of their photography time, as my coverage ended when the meal was called- a half-day package – brilliant, right?
Planning for an Early Ceremony if possible.
TOP TIP: One tip I always share with couples is to plan an early ceremony if possible.
This allows more time during the day for photography and more time to enjoy the day, ensuring everything is captured in natural daylight. Some venues may not allow ceremonies before 3:30 PM :(, especially in winter when daylight is limited.
However, venues like Boyne Hill House, for instance, can accommodate earlier ceremonies, allowing us to cover everything—from the ceremony to the drink reception—before sunset.
Yesterday, I worked at Ballintubert House, and they allowed us to have the ceremony at 1 pm—a brilliant idea!
Here’s why:
- More time for everything: A more extended wedding day means more time to relax and enjoy.
- Quality time: Extra moments to share a drink with family and friends.
- Extended photo sessions: More opportunities for capturing those perfect shots.
- Weather concerns: If it rains, you can wait for the sun to shine for better photos.
- Less stress: The bride and groom can enjoy the day without feeling rushed.
- Flexibility: If something goes wrong, you have more time to adjust.
- Flexible speeches: The option to do speeches during the drink reception or before the meal, easing the flow of the day.
- No late first dance: Enjoy the celebrations without worrying about time constraints.
- Please don’t believe it when someone says people get bored! They’re drinking, having fun, and catching up with each other. I think many guests haven’t seen each other in a long time, so they’re enjoying every minute.
If the ceremony is at the wedding venue, I recommend having it no later than 2 p.m. if the wedding venue can accommodate that.
TOP TIP: Ask if your wedding photographer offers a wedding video or photobooth—that can also save you money!
Hiring both a photographer and a videographer for your wedding can be expensive, but many photographers offer combined photo and video packages.
Choosing one of these packages often saves you money! and means you only have to deal with one company, making the planning process easier and ensuring seamless coverage of your special day.
Flexibility with Wedding Photography Coverage
One of the benefits of working with a professional wedding photographer is the flexibility to extend coverage if needed. If speeches are scheduled after the meal, or if you want to capture the first dance, many wedding photographers, including myself, offer the option to book additional hours.
This way, you can have wedding day coverage without committing to a full-day wedding package upfront.
TOP TIP: Wedding shows can be an excellent opportunity to meet suppliers and find deals, but it’s important to keep in mind that the most sought-after vendors, like photographers, videographers, and stylists, are often booked and working on weddings, not attending shows.
Many suppliers who participate in these events are those looking to fill their calendars, which might indicate they don’t have as many bookings.
While you can still find great vendors at these shows, be aware that the top professionals may not be there because they’re likely busy working on someone else’s big day.
Making the Most of Your Budget – Half-day package!
A half-day package can be ideal for smaller, more intimate weddings, providing coverage of all the key moments while staying within your budget.
You might want to consider a full-day package if you’re concerned about missing certain evening events, like the first dance.
Alternatively, you could ask guests to capture those moments on their phones, though the quality won’t compare to professional photos.
It’s all about setting your priorities.
While these shots won’t match the quality of a professional’s work, they can still add a fun, candid element to your wedding gallery.
However, if budget is a concern, I’d strongly recommend booking an experienced wedding photographer for a half-day package rather than opting for a less experienced photographer or a family friend for full-day coverage.
TOP TIP: Remember—you can always sort out, design, and pay for a printed wedding album even a year or two after the big day! There is no need to stress about it when booking—it can help ease the budget!
Is Full-Day Coverage Worth It?
YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!
While a half-day package is an excellent option for many, full-day coverage has advantages. Evening photos, candid shots of friends after a few drinks, dancing photos, and sunset or sparkler shots are all moments that typically occur after 5 PM.
For my wedding, I chose a full-day package to ensure that every moment was captured, from getting ready in the morning to dancing the night away.
Choosing between a half-day and full-day package depends on your priorities and budget. Both options offer flexibility and value, so you can decide what’s most important for your wedding day.
Disposable cameras?
TOP TIP: Some time ago, I spoke with one Bride, and I was very surprised – Consider skipping disposable cameras on tables and opting for a professional photo booth. While the costs are often comparable, what was a big surprise for me!, the outcomes are significantly better.
You can shop for a photo booth or selfie mirror for a reasonable price!
- Photo booths usually provide fun and entertainment for your guests, resulting in lively albums filled with messages and photos.
- On the other hand, disposable cameras and guest books are often left empty or only partially used.
This is just an observation from weddings I’ve photographed, and after speaking with couples, the cost difference is typically minimal.
Ready to Book?
If you’re interested in learning more about half-day photography packages or want to discuss your wedding plans, don’t hesitate to get in touch. With my experience and passion for capturing beautiful moments, I’m here to help make your wedding day memories last a lifetime.
TOP TIP: People often think the venue coordinator handles everything, but the real person making crucial decisions on your wedding day is actually the photographer. They decide when to take photos, for how long, and where. A wedding photographer is much more than someone who takes photos—they manage the flow of your day, organize group shots efficiently, know the best locations, and handle unexpected situations like rain. A skilled photographer ensures your day runs smoothly, leaving you with more time to enjoy the celebration. Choose wisely—they can make or break your experience!
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer, please contact me here.
Or, if you have any questions, you can find answers on my wedding planning blog.
I’d strongly recommend booking an experienced wedding photographer for a half-day package rather than opting for a less experienced photographer or a family friend with a camera for full-day coverage.
Enjoy your planning! :)
Daniel
