Average Cost Of Photographer For Wedding

Should I Get A Second Shooter For My Wedding

When it comes to the great one versus two wedding photographers debate, the right answer tends to vary from photographer to photographer, and often depends on the size of your wedding. If youre having a very intimate and small wedding, having just one photographer present may suffice. However, if youre hosting a larger wedding with lots of guests, you will likely need a main photographer as well as a second photographer, and perhaps assistants to help with lighting and coordination. 34 percent of wedding photographers include a second shooter in their starting rates, but for many, it’s a separate charge.

Having a second shooter can be beneficial in capturing different perspectives and angles throughout the dayand can make your wedding-day timeline run even more smoothly. With two photographers on hand, both your and your future spouses getting-ready processes can be photographed at the same time. Its best to discuss your specific wedding and needs with your photographer to determine the best staffing situation.

Go To Bridal Shows And Enter Giveaways

Bridal shows are a great way to meet local vendors and get ideas for your wedding. Often, vendors will have bonuses or giveaways at these events. Showcases are paid events, and not all photographers like this style of marketing. Just because someone isnt at your towns big bridal showcase, doesnt mean they arent worth working with.

Do Wedding Photographers Sneakily Over

A couple years ago Adam Ruins Everything posted a video about how wedding vendors charge a lot more simply because its a wedding.

But, is a birthday party really the same as a wedding? Is it:

a once in a lifetime event?

an event that requires hours of pre and post labor?

an often multi-location event?

a full day event for your vendors, lasting up to 20 hours of labor?

Lots of what were talking about here can be applied to any vendor. Weddings are NOT the same as a birthday party or some other event that doesnt carry as heavy as a mental and physical workload.

Don’t Miss: How To Find A Wedding Dress From A Picture

Wedding Photographer Cost Overview:

• The average cost for a wedding photographer is 10-15% of a couples total budget, which is currently around $2800 for the average couple.

• You can expect your wedding photographer cost to run you anywhere between $2,500-$10,000 depending on the experience of your photographer, location, and what theyre including in your wedding package.

• Wedding photography packages typically cover 6-8 hours, on average. More or less shooting time will influence your cost.

• Its important to ask a prospective wedding photographer how much extra they are charging for a wedding album if theyve bundled the cost into their package price.

I know $2,500-$10,000 is a huge range, but at least it can give you somewhat of an idea of what to expect when looking for and meeting wedding photographers. Also, as mentioned above always keep in mind that where you live can greatly influence your wedding photography prices. You might find that youre able to find a great photographer for under $2,000 in your area, in which case you need to stop reading and do a little dance of joy immediately, please!

Now that you have a general idea of how much wedding photographers cost, here are some easy ways to trim costs

So How Do They Decide Their Rate

There are 3 main factors to consider when a wedding photographer sets their rate. Many people only think of the day of the event when thinking about what kind of work goes into wedding photography but it’s a common misconception. It’s important to consider pre wedding – wedding and post wedding expenses when a wedding photographer sets their rate.

Event Photos of the speeches at a wedding celebration at Stone Water – 125 State Route 181, Lake Hopatcong, NJ 07849. – Photography by Event Photographers at Timeline Visuals

Recommended Reading: What Is The Inner Envelope For Wedding Invitations

Experience And Skills Of The Wedding Photographer

As you would assume, the more experience and refined skills a wedding photographer possess, the higher the wedding photos expected costs. Let the photographers portfolio and clientele references speak itself. Previous client testimonials are invaluable tools that can help steer you in the right direction. In your search, be wary of wedding photographer sites plastered with negative reviews.

Average Cost Of A Wedding Photographer

Im so happy you stopped by for more information on the average cost of a wedding photographer.

The average cost of a wedding photographer is affected by so many factors. So, to help out, I have a wedding photographer calculator that will shed some light on this, oh so important decision.

After playing around with the calculator, please read through the blog, as I go into detail on the factors which will affect on how much you will spend on a wedding photographer.

Don’t Miss: How Do You Become A Wedding Planner

What Are You Really Paying For

Keep in mind that above every detail you arrange for your wedding, what you are paying for is the time and experience of each wedding vendor, as well as the team behind them. The following parable perfectly illustrates what we pay for in life:

Knowing Which Screw to Turn:

None of the technicians could solve the problem of the printing presses of a renowned Chicago newspaper when they began malfunctioning on the Saturday before Christmas, putting the advertising revenue that was to appear the following morning in jeopardy. Finally, a frantic call was made to the retired technician who had worked the presses for over forty years. Well pay anything just come in and fix them, he was told.

When he arrived, he walked around for a few minutes surveying the presses. He approached one of the control panels, opened it, pulled a dime from his pocket and used it to turn a screw 1/4 of a turn and said, The presses will work correctly now.

After profusely thanked, he was told to submit a bill for his work. The bill arrived a few days later for $10,000.

The newspaper, not wanting to pay such an amount for so little work, asked the retired technician to itemize his charges with the hope he would reduce the amount once he had to identify his services. The revised bill arrived: $1.00 for turning the screw $9,999.00 for knowing which screw to turn.

The Long And Short Of It

Weddings fall primarily into two categories here in Muskoka, elopements and then the more standard full day coverage.

Full Day Weddings :The key pricing criteria of any wedding photographers pricing is how much time you need them for. In cities like Toronto, distances between homes/hotels, ceremony and reception often require additional time for travel . However, in Muskoka weddings often take place at resorts or cottages where little additional travel is needed. As a result, 8 hours of coverage is typically sufficient to cover getting ready photos through to the first dances later in the evening.

Secondary considerations in wedding photography pricing would be add-ons like engagement sessions as well as albums and prints. Packages often include one or more of these options.

Elopements :Elopements and smaller micro-weddings have become very popular the past few years. The costs of weddings can get out of hand quickly and I see couples more and more opting for a significantly scaled down affair with just their closest family and friends in attendance. The financial benefit is obvious less money on a wedding leaves more for future home and family plans. Elopement coverage tends to be 2-3 hours and for mirco-weddings, 3-5 hours of photography seems to be the sweet-spot.

Don’t Miss: Wedding Venues In Covington La

Timing Of The Wedding / Date

Saturday has been a long-time favourite day for holding wedding ceremonies. However, during wedding seasons, between May to September, most photographers are fully booked. This means service providers are usually on high-demand, which is likely to push prices upwards. If you are looking to employ a professional photographer during the picking season, its more likely that you will spend more.

Asking Your Photographer About Pricing

Its ok to talk about money with your photographer. After all, they know its a big investment and want you to be comfortable with your booking. Here are the best questions to ask your photographer:

• What all is included in your photography package? This should be clearly laid out in a quote and contract before booking.

• How much are additional hours and other upgrades?

• What are any additional fees I need to plan for?

• How much are print and albums, and do I receive the printing rights to photos?

• Can I purchase additional digital images?

• Do you offer discounts for weekday or off-season weddings?

• Does having a smaller wedding impact the cost? Photographers typically charge the same no matter your guest count. The exception is if they offer an elopement package for a short timeframe.
• Do you charge a travel fee?

Recommended Reading: A Line Floral Wedding Dress

Why Do Some Photographers Cost More Than Others

Its not just about booking the most affordable photographer possible but rather its about booking the RIGHT photographer to suit your needs and vision for your wedding day. As mentioned earlier, there is a wide range in which a wedding photographer might cost you. Weve broken it down for you to see some of the different ranges may be and what that typically means for each photographer.

• These are typically people who are looking to gain experience, build a portfolio, or just do it as a hobby on the side. While each photographer has to start somewhere, keep in mind the risks that might go along with this route. When we first started out, we lacked confidence, and we were very awkward in our posing. We didnt understand lighting, and we were literally just learning . So, when this is the route you choose, keep in mind that you do get what you pay for and so dont be unrealistic in your expectations and compare their work to someone who has been doing this for years. Everyone has to start somewhere.

Know What Photography Quality/style You Want

Youll need to hire a high-end photographer if you want masterful photos. If you just want someone to document your day, you may be able to hire a student or lower-cost professional.

This is where your vision and your budget have to meet. You may have to compromise on quality to achieve your budgeting goals, or you can cut costs elsewhere to make room for your dream photographer.

Read Also: What To Wear For A Wedding Female

Some Things That Make Weddings Unique Over Other Events

• Weddings are once in a lifetime events for each couple. You are only married for the first time once.
• There are hours of pre-event and post event labor timeline planning, learning about you, scheduling travel, building the team, editing the images, designing an album, meeting with you to show off the design and photos, maintaining gallery backups, etc.
• Often weddings are multi-location meaning gear and everything else must be picked up and taken to wherever the next thing on the timeline is going to be.
• Including drive time and everything else most weddings can be so much more than the hours in the timeline.
• Risk removal such as lock myself down 24 hrs prior to a wedding. I dont go anywhere to do anything. Then i show up 1hr early minimum to the wedding. This does not include perhaps staying at a hotel close by. Again this is all risk removal to make sure I AM THERE no matter what.

This can be applied to many vendors as well, its more work than you think. Weddings are so different from birthdays, corporate events, or otherwise. In my case specifically, you cant compare the cost of photography for a wedding to different kinds of event photography, largely because I wont do other events.

Every single photographer runs things very differently. But here are some rough hours included in a wedding booking, not including the backend parts of the business

Affordable Wedding Photography Prices On A Budget

Follow these tips to save money on your wedding photography budget:

• Don’t hold your wedding during the peak season. Wedding prices are typically cheaper from November to March.
• Hire the photographer for fewer hours.
• Create your own photo album instead of having your photographer design one.
• Bundle engagement photos and wedding photos for a discounted package.
• Purchase prints from an online retailer instead of ordering through the photographer.
• Opt-out of additional items like an engagement photo shoot, album, or extra prints.
• Hire a beginner photographer, but keep in mind a cheaper photographer won’t have the same skills or experience as a professional.
• Ask a friend to take wedding photos for you instead of hiring a photographer.
• Place disposable cameras on the tables to allow guests to take photos.

Read Also: How To Write Wedding Invitations With Divorced Parents

Oscar Laverde Photography Costs

At Oscar Laverde Photography, we have a reputation for providing some of the most authentic wedding photos. Our affordable services start from as low as $2000 for local packages.

Our packages are meant to help couples anywhere in the world who are planning a meaningful & authentic celebration get professional photography services with unbelievable value.

We always communicate with our couples to discuss availability, prices, and wedding specifications. Our services include documentary wedding, engagement, and family photography in London, Ontario. Contact us today for any inquiries.

How Much Does A Wedding Videographer Cost

Oftentimes, videography is not included in the photographers packages by default. Instead, you have to specify that you would like to include videography in your package.

Other times, the photographer and videographer can be from different vendors and companies. Its always best to avail a package if the option is available. Otherwise, you will have to go through the hassle of finding an independent videographer and probably end up paying more as well.

For the most part, though, the average cost of videography is the same in either case. Couples tend to spend anything between $1,000 to $2500 for about 10 hours of coverage, with $1,700 being the average amount.

Don’t Miss: Pink Mens Suits For Weddings

Average Cost Of Wedding Photographer In 2022

After months of planning the perfect wedding celebration, itâs true: Your wedding day will fly by. The food, music, and flowers all made for a beautiful party, but they’re gone when the party ends, and there’s nothing physical you keep from that day .

That’s why a photographer is one of the most important people you’ll work with during the planning process and on your wedding day. You and your partner will want to remember the special moments you had forever, and you’ll want to get a glimpse of how your loved ones were celebrating when you were off chatting to other guests.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to decide on a good photographer whoâs right for you.

Do Wedding Photographers Over

Short answer, not at all. As a wedding photographer, I put in 60 + hours of work per wedding. In some cases, I do not charge enough.

A single wedding day can easily account for the following hours of work:

• 2 3 hours of emails/meetings/calls
• 2 3 hours of engagement session
• 1 4 hours of upload, edit, export delivery
• 2 3 hours of timeline prep and pre-wedding planning
• 10 15 hours of day of work
• 7 30 hours of editing time
• 1 hour backup/miscellaneous activities

Thats 60+ hours per wedding of actual labor! And that is not even counting expenses and taxes!!!! Additionally, this doesnt include the time and money that goes into paying a second photographer, gas money, gear, education, business insurance, editing software etc.

It is safe to say that any professional photographer potentially spends approximately 75 hours per wedding.

As a simple example, if a photographer needs to make $60k per year and their estimated expenses and taxes is $25k, and theyre willing to shoot 25 weddings a year, they need to charge $1,400 per wedding on average.

That comes out to about $18-20 per hour or less. And dont forget, we wedding photographers still have federal and state taxes after all that .

Honestly, $18 per hour seems pretty cheap for being a specialist documenting one of the most important days of your life that can never be recreated, doesnt it?

In Conclusion

Listen to the podcast- What to invest in your wedding photographer with ACE Wedding & Events!

Recommended Reading: All-inclusive Beach Wedding Packages

Tips For Hiring A Wedding Photographer In New York Ny

Are you excited about wedding planning, but nervous about the prices of your vendors? Let us help. Well figure out with you exactly what you need for your wedding day photography and videography. Our goal is to find a price that youll be comfortable with, while knowing the images from your big day are in good hands. Lets figure out the price of your New York wedding photography together. Were not big fans of the one-size-fits-all wedding photography package format. Lets see what you really want and need out of your day.

How Much Should I Pay For My Wedding Photographer

If you’re looking for a wedding photographer most likely this is the first time. If you’re like me, you don’t like getting on a sales call with someone before you have a general idea of what other people are normally paying for a service. No one likes to be taken for a ride less than this girl right here. Its icky.

Derpy face to represent my discomfort with sales.

We only had about $1000 to work with. For many of you, that sounds like a lot of money. It certainly was to them and me at the time. For others, you may know that $1000 for a full day of wedding photography is a lot to ask for. The truth of the matter is, if a wedding photographer is offering a full day of wedding coverage for only $1000 or less, they are just getting started, theyre not doing wedding photography as their only means of income, they are absolutely scraping by, they dont yet know their own worth, or they simply won’t be doing it for long and be out of business soon. It’s not sustainable.

In my area of Cleveland Ohio, the average wedding photographer costs anywhere between $2000 – $4000. Of course you have the folks who are charging $1000 or less. On the flip side, and there are folks who are charging 10k-20k or more. And while even a grand seems like a lot of money to spend on photographs, even a photographer charing 10K is giving you a deal.

Recommended Reading: How To Become A Wedding Officiant Online