Why You Should Schedule a “Last Hour” Session at the End of Your Wedding Day
As a wedding photographer, I’ve captured thousands of moments — from the emotional first look to the wild dance floor moves late into the night. But one of the most underrated parts of the wedding day? The very last hour.
Most couples think the best photo opportunities are front-loaded — getting ready, the ceremony, golden hour. And while those moments are magical, the final hour of your wedding day often holds a kind of raw, unscripted beauty that’s totally unmatched.
Let me explain why you should consider scheduling a “Last Hour” photo session — and why it might just become your favorite set of images.
1. It’s when the real magic happens.
After the pressure of the ceremony is gone, the formalities are over, and everyone has had a drink or two — people relax. The final hour of your reception is when your closest friends let loose, your grandparents hug you a little tighter, and you and your partner can finally breathe and soak it all in.
It’s not posed. It’s not curated. It’s real. And that’s exactly what makes it powerful.
2. The photos are full of personality.
Forget picture-perfect smiles — the last hour is full of spontaneous laughter, twirls on the dance floor, cake-smeared kisses, and barefoot walks under twinkly lights. It’s the kind of joyful chaos you’ll want to remember forever, and the kind of energy that can't be staged.
3. It captures the “exhale.”
There’s something beautiful about documenting the moment after the high. It’s quieter, more intimate. Maybe it’s a private slow dance before guests head out. Maybe it's your closest friends huddled together singing the last song. Or maybe it’s just the two of you, shoes in hand, walking back to the car as newlyweds.
It’s the exhale — and it deserves to be captured just as much as the "I do."
4. It helps tell the full story of your day.
Your wedding album isn’t just about the big moments — it’s a time capsule. And leaving out the final chapter would be like ending a movie right before the credits roll. Including that last hour ties it all together and creates a complete, emotional arc you’ll love looking back on for years to come.
A few ways to make it happen:
Extend your coverage by one hour so your photographer is there until the very end.
Plan a late-night private photo moment, like a sparkler exit, a nightcap toast, or a cozy cuddle under the stars.
Talk to your photographer ahead of time to build in a few intentional shots during the last 60 minutes — even if it’s just 10 minutes away from the crowd.
Every wedding has its own unique rhythm, but don’t underestimate the beauty of the moments that come after the confetti has fallen. The last hour might just be the most honest, emotional, and joy-filled part of your entire day.
And as your photographer, I’d love nothing more than to capture that for you.
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Courtney Hudson Photography
Capturing love in all its quiet, wild, and unforgettable forms 💫
