Hi,
We have been looking at photographers and trying to decide how long we should book them for our wedding. Basically, the ceremony starts at 5pm, followed by cocktails, reception and dancing, all at the same location. The reception will start at 6:30ish, and will include dinner, toasts, possibly a slideshow(we don't plan on any first dance or cake cutting at this time), and it may wrap up by 8:30 or so, with dancing to follow. We are wondering how long we should book the photographer for. I know most times they start before the ceremony, taking pics of the bride as she gets ready, but I'm pretty sure I won't feel very comfortable having a stranger in the room as I get ready, but I would like to have some pics taken when I'm all ready before I go to the ceremony. Also, we are wondering how late the photographer should stay? Is it worthwhile to get pics of the entire reception, speeches and dancing? Also, bear in mind that we do plan on doing a "trash the dress" session as well as have guests upload their own pics after the wedding. What do you guys suggest?