How Long Do Wedding Photos Take on the Day in Ireland?
The short answer (that nobody gives)
How long do wedding photos take on the day?
As long as you want. Or as short as you need.
Nothing is set in stone. And it shouldn’t be. Your wedding day isn’t a photoshoot. It’s your day.
What couples are really worried about
Most couples aren’t worried about photos. They’re worried about being pulled away.
Missing time with guests. Being stuck posing. Feeling rushed. Feeling awkward.
That fear usually comes from seeing weddings treated like ticking clocks. That’s not how I work.
Here’s the truth most photographers won’t say
About 98% of a wedding day is candid.
You hugging people. Laughing. Nerves. Tears. Moments you don’t even realise are happening.
That part doesn’t “take time”. It just happens while you live your day.
So what about portraits?
Portraits are the only part that’s flexible.
If you’re up for it and feeling good — we usually spend 30 to 45 minutes.
If you’re shy, nervous, or just want it short — 10 minutes is plenty.
Some of my favourite images ever were taken in under ten minutes.
No pressure. No forcing.
If you’re enjoying yourselves, we keep going. If it feels like enough, we stop.
There’s no timer running in my head. No “we must get this shot”.
We work with how you feel, not against it.
Family photos (this still matters)
I’m seeing a lot of photographers moving away from formal family photos.
That’s not me.
I love tradition. I love getting the parents. The grandparents. The photos people will frame.
We do them efficiently, calmly, and without chaos. Usually 15–25 minutes. Then everyone’s free again.
Creative, candid, traditional — all of it
You don’t have to choose one style.
I can be creative when the moment allows. Quiet when it needs space. Organised when structure helps.
My job is to read the room and fit in wherever I’m needed. That changes throughout the day.
Why couples choose JOD Photography
Because I don’t run weddings on a stopwatch.
I blend in. I calm things down. I give space when it matters.
You live your day. I make sure it’s remembered properly.
Fair, honest pricing
No upselling. No hidden extras. No pressure.
Clear packages. Clear expectations. Delivered on time.
What real couples say
“We forgot the camera was even there.” — Katie
“Nothing felt rushed or staged.” — Adam
“He just fit in like a friend.” — Eimear
“That calm presence made all the difference.” — Lisa
This applies everywhere in Ireland
Cork. Kerry. Limerick. Clare. Tipperary.
Big hotels. Small churches. Back gardens. Elopements.
The timeline changes. The approach doesn’t.
The thing to remember
Your wedding day isn’t about photos.
Photos fit around your day — not the other way around.
And that’s when the best ones happen.
Questions couples always ask
How long do wedding photos take on the day?
There’s no fixed answer. Portraits can be 10 minutes or 45 minutes. The rest of the day is candid and happens naturally.
Will we miss time with our guests?
No. Photography fits around your day. You won’t be dragged away for hours.
Do we have to pose?
No stiff posing. Gentle guidance when needed. If something feels awkward, we move on.
What if we hate photos?
That’s most couples. And usually the ones who end up loving their photos the most.
Do you still do family photos?
Yes. I love tradition. We do them properly, efficiently, and without stress.
Explore. Read. Take Your Time.
If you’re planning a wedding and figuring things out as you go, these will help. No pressure. Just honest answers and real stories.
Wedding Photography by Location
If You’re Nervous About Photos
Planning Your Wedding?
Couples often tell me they’re nervous about photos. These guides explain how things really work on the day.
What “Relaxed Wedding Photography” Actually Means
We’re Awkward — Can We Still Have Nice Wedding Photos?
What Actually Happens During Wedding Photos on the Day
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