Wedding photography is an important part of capturing one of the most memorable days of a couple's life. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of what a normal budget for a wedding photographer should be, there are a few factors to consider when determining the cost. Generally what ever you spend on your money on when it comes to planning your wedding really comes down to what you value.
First and foremost, it is important to understand that wedding photography is a luxury service, to be fair so is a wedding. Photographers typically charge a premium for their skills and experience. This premium is often based on a number of factors, including the photographer's experience, the quality of their work, and their reputation in the industry. Geographically prices may vary as well. If you are planning on looking to book a photographer in London for example, expect to pay more than you would in places such are the North East of the UK. I mean this is pretty straight forward economics, people charge more based on how much it costs for them to live as well as run their wedding photography business.
In general, most wedding photographers charge anywhere from £1, 000 to £5,000 for their services. This can vary greatly depending on the location of the wedding as well, the size of the wedding party doesn't always make a difference, but, the amount of coverage desired, and the type of photography package selected will do. Some photographers may also offer special packages for destination weddings, which can be more expensive due to travel costs. Some photographers may choose to travel to destination weddings with in the cost of their usual wedding package, however you may find some more established photographers are likely too charge additionally for this, as with destination weddings they risk loosing the whole weekend of potential bookings.
Another factor to consider when determining a budget for a wedding photographer is the type of photography coverage desired. Some photographers offer a basic package that includes only a few hours of coverage, while others offer full-day coverage that includes bridal preparations, the ceremony, and the reception. Full-day coverage is typically more expensive, but it allows the photographer to capture all of the special moments of the wedding day, from start to finish. Currently in 2023 I provide hourly options. This allows the couples who book me to choose what part of the day they want their coverage over.
It is also important to consider the experience and reputation of the photographer when determining a budget. Photographers with a long history of successful weddings and a strong portfolio of work typically charge more than newer photographers. Additionally, photographers who have a reputation for producing high-quality work are often in high demand and may have a waiting list, which can also impact their pricing. When trying to balance out your budget that you have set for you day it's always wise to consider the impacts of having a new photographer shoot your wedding, while there is some amazing new talent out there, there's more to wedding photography that just pretty pictures. Being a wedding photographer is a real business and many starting out fail to understand the implications cheaper deals to build their portfolio have on the couples who book them.
In addition to the cost of the photography services on the day, couples should also be aware that the work just doesn't stop there. The cost of your photographer covers their time and skills to edit you images, host your gallery and even in some cases put the advert in front of you for you to get in touch, that could be online or at a wedding fair. The pre and post-production is something many couples may not initially take into consideration. These are also not the only cost associated with running a business, website fees, SEO fee's, software subscriptions, tech purchases and also the cost of the time most of them spend on marketing.
Some photographers may also include these costs in their base price, while others may charge extra for these services outside a certain radius.
Determining a budget for a wedding photographer can be a complex process, as there are many factors to consider. However, by taking the time to understand the various factors that impact the cost of wedding photography and considering your own specific needs and preferences, wants and desires for your wedding. You can find a photographer that meets your needs and fits within your budget. So if the flowers are more important to you on the wedding day, then it maybe worth considering your budget may not stretch to a photographer that is of high-standard.
Whether you are looking for a basic package with a few hours of coverage or a full-day coverage. It is important to find a photographer who you trust to capture the memories of your special day, after all and as the cliche goes... the cake gets eaten the flower die and most importantly the other thing let will be your photos and video!
