I’ve been photographing weddings for over twelve years full time (and before that part time), and one thing I’ve learned is this: no matter how “simple” or “intimate” a wedding looks on paper… the vision couples bring usually deserves more coverage than they realize.
Recently, I photographed a beautiful intimate wedding — around fifty guests, no bridal party, and a relaxed vibe. But behind the scenes, there were so many moving parts. Multiple first looks. Creative transitions. Out-of-the-box décor. A whole experience that felt personal, intentional and very produced in the best way. The couple wanted a mix of everything — real candid moments, documentary-style coverage and beautifully posed portraits. It was gorgeous and creatively inspiring, but it was also a lot happening at once.
As their planning continued, the vision naturally expanded. I was hired more than a year before the wedding, and like most couples, once ideas started flowing and the design came together, the day slowly grew into something bigger than what we originally discussed. That’s totally normal — weddings evolve. But when we add new moments, new details, new experiences and more “moving parts,” we also have to make sure the coverage grows with it. It’s not about upselling, it’s about making sure the team in place can actually capture everything you’ve dreamed up.
And one thing I really want couples to understand is this: don’t base your photography needs only on the number of guests or the fact that you don’t have a wedding party. I hear that a lot — “we only have 50 guests” or “we don’t have bridesmaids or groomsmen, so it should be simple.” But that can be a mistake if you’re also adding more “turning wheels” to the experience. You can have a smaller guest count and still have layers of events, design moments, first looks, transitions, creative ideas, outfit changes, cultural elements, room reveals or multiple photo locations. Those things take time, coordination and the right amount of coverage. The vibe, vision and flow of the day matter way more than the guest count.
Florida Keys wedding photographer →
https://claudiaamaliaphotography.com/key-largo-wedding-photographer/
Miami wedding photographer →
https://claudiaamaliaphotography.com/miami-wedding-photographer/
Originally, the couple booked me as the lead photographer with an assistant. And as you know, assistants don’t photograph. But right before the wedding, I had surgery, and even though I was cleared and felt great, I brought in a second photographer as backup. Once the day came, I ended up shooting without hesitation — but having that second photographer was such a blessing. We photographed the entire day together, smoothly and without missing a beat.
And that’s when it hit me… this wedding should have been contracted with two photographers and one assistant from the start. If a couple has a big vision — even for a small wedding — the photography support needs to match that vision. It’s not about stretching the budget. It’s about being realistic:
“This is the experience you want — and this is what’s needed to capture it fully.”
There are moments on a wedding day when even three photographers make sense. I can only be in one place at a time. So if I’m photographing your sunset portraits, and cocktail hour is happening at the same time, and the reception décor needs to be captured before guests walk in… how many photographers do you think we need? Something will be missed if the coverage doesn’t match the moment.
Same goes for religious traditions happening simultaneously, ceremonies in different areas, or timelines with overlapping events. And let’s be honest — every wedding comes with unexpected challenges. Light changes, people run late, rooms get crowded, timelines shift, weather moves in, someone needs a quick cleanup, emotions run high. Professional photographers aren’t just taking pictures; we’re problem-solving, reading the room, adjusting, guiding, creating moments and being ready for the moments in between the moments.
So whether you’re planning an elopement, a micro wedding or a full celebration, the most important thing you can do is set clear expectations. Share your vision. Share what you want photographed. And make sure the coverage you choose actually supports that vision.
When expectations and reality line up, everything flows — and you get the images you’ll hold onto forever.
If you like to connect and explore what options
explore my wedding collections here:
https://claudiaamaliaphotography.com/wedding-photography-collections/
reach out here:
https://claudiaamaliaphotography.com/contact
read more wedding tips:
https://claudiaamaliaphotography.com/blog/
f all of this resonates and you’re starting to picture what you want your wedding day to feel like, I’d love to connect. Feel free to fill out my contact form whenever you’re ready, and we can set up a call to chat through your ideas, your vision and the vibe you’re dreaming of. I’m here to guide you and make sure you get the experience that fits you best. https://claudiaamaliaphotography.com/contact
Most recent blog (Vizcaya): https://vizcaya.org/visit-2/photography-and-filming/
https://claudiaamaliaphotography.com/key-largo-wedding-photographer-2/
Anchor: my latest blog about engagement sessions and how a different vibe prepares you for the wedding day. This is where you can go to reserve your permit at Vizcaya: https://vizcaya.org/visit-2/photography-and-filming/
