Let’s be honest: comparing wedding photographers in Ottawa can feel like comparing phone plans. One quotes you a number, the next quotes something wildly different, and somewhere in the fine print are words like “coverage,” “second shooter,” and “print release” that nobody explained. So before you sign anything, here’s a plain-English look at what actually goes into a wedding photography package around here — and exactly what to ask so you’re comparing apples to apples.
So what’s usually included?
Most Ottawa wedding photography packages are built around a few core pieces. Once you know them, every quote suddenly makes a lot more sense.
Hours of coverage. This is the big one. Coverage is simply how many hours your photographer is with you on the day — from getting ready to the last dance (or somewhere in between). Most couples land between 8 and 10 hours for a full wedding day. Fewer hours costs less, but it also means someone’s packing up their camera right as the dance floor gets good.
The number of photographers. Some packages include one photographer; others include a second shooter (more on why that matters below). Two sets of eyes means someone’s with you while your partner walks down the aisle, and someone’s catching the guests’ reactions at the same time.
Your edited, high-resolution images. You should always walk away with a full gallery of professionally edited, high-resolution photos you can download, print, and share. Ask how many images you can expect and how you’ll receive them (an online gallery is standard).
A print release. This is the permission to print your own photos wherever you like. It’s not the same as owning the copyright, but for 99% of couples it’s exactly what you need. Make sure it’s in writing.
The extras that vary. Engagement sessions, albums, prints, a second location, and drone or film add-ons are the pieces that move from package to package. None of them are “must-haves” — they’re the personal touches that make a collection feel like yours.
If you want to see how this comes together in real numbers, our Ottawa wedding photography pricing page lays it all out.
How many hours of coverage do you actually need?
Here’s the cheeky truth: most couples slightly underestimate this. The photos you’ll treasure — the belly laughs, the happy tears, the dance floor chaos — tend to happen at the edges of the day, during getting-ready and late into the reception. If your budget only stretches to six hours, that’s completely okay; just build your timeline so those hours land on the moments that matter most to you. We’re always happy to help you map that out.
Do the digital files come with it?
Yes — with any reputable Ottawa photographer, your edited high-resolution digital images should be included, delivered through a private online gallery you can download from. What’s usually not included is the raw, unedited files (those are like handing you the flour and eggs instead of the cake). If getting your gallery quickly matters to you, ask about turnaround time up front.
The questions that tell you everything
Before you book anyone, ask these five. The answers reveal far more than the price does:
- How many hours of coverage does this include, and what happens if we run over?
- Is a second photographer included, or is that extra?
- How many edited images will we receive, and how soon?
- Do we get a print release, and can we order albums later?
- What happens if you’re sick on our wedding day? (A real pro always has a backup plan.)
A quick word on “cheap”
We’ll never tell you to spend more than you’re comfortable with — that’s your call, not ours. But wedding photos are the one part of the day you take home with you. The flowers wilt, the cake gets eaten, and the photos are what’s left. It’s worth making sure the person behind the camera is someone you trust, whose work you genuinely love, and whose package actually covers the moments you care about.
FAQ
What’s included in a wedding photography package in Ottawa?
Typically: a set number of coverage hours, one or two photographers, a full gallery of edited high-resolution images, an online gallery to download from, and a print release. Engagement sessions, albums, and prints are common add-ons.
How many hours of wedding coverage do I need?
Most couples choose 8–10 hours to capture everything from getting ready to the reception. Six hours can work beautifully if you plan your timeline carefully around your priority moments.
Do I get the digital files?
Yes — your edited, high-resolution images should be included and downloadable from a private gallery. Unedited raw files usually aren’t included.
What’s a print release?
Written permission to print your photos yourself, anywhere you like. It’s standard and you should always get it in writing.
Planning your Ottawa wedding and want a photographer who’ll actually walk you through all of this? Say hello — we’d love to hear your story.
