How Long Do City Hall Wedding Photos Really Take?
The Honest Answer: Less Than You Think
Most couples are surprised by how little time is actually needed for meaningful City Hall wedding photos.
The ceremony is short. The moments are real.
What affects timing most isn’t posing or photographing - it’s waiting.
Typical City Hall Wedding Photography Coverage
1 Hour Coverage
Best for couples who want:
ceremony coverage
a few portraits
minimal movement
This works well for very intimate weddings with no or very few guests.
2 Hour Coverage
This is the most popular and flexible option.
Ideal if you want:
ceremony coverage
family & friends photos
relaxed couple portraits
time to move through City Hall naturally
Two hours gives space to slow down without feeling rushed.
Most City Hall weddings do not need more than two hours of coverage.
What Takes Time (And What Doesn’t)
Emotion takes seconds.
Movement takes minutes.
Waiting takes the longest.
Waiting at Popular Photo Locations
Certain areas inside City Hall are extremely popular- especially:
the Grand Staircase
the 4th Floor
These spots are shared by many couples and photographers, which means:
brief waits are common
timing can be unpredictable
patience matters more than speed
This is exactly why a calm timeline and realistic coverage matter. Two hours allows flexibility if we need to wait a few minutes without pressure.
What Doesn’t Take as Long as You Think
The ceremony itself
Natural portraits
Walking photos through City Hall
When couples aren’t rushed, photos happen faster - and feel better.
FAQ
Can we add time last minute?
Sometimes, yes - but availability isn’t guaranteed. Planning ahead is always easier.
Do we need photos before the ceremony?
Only if you want them. It’s completely optional.
My Photographer’s Advice
Choose coverage that gives you space to breathe, not more time than you need.
Simple coverage leads to calmer experiences - and better photos.
I’ll help you choose the right amount of coverage for your City Hall wedding - no upselling, no pressure.
