What is a reasonable price for a wedding photography?

Like anything else, the price for professional wedding services will vary from city to city and state to state.

Wedding photography pricing for your specific area will depend on the demand, types of weddings in your area and the number of professional wedding photographers in your area.

Things to consider when you are searching for wedding photographers when price is a major consideration

Style

Are you a fan of classic or natural light looks or do you prefer more creative styles? If you are looking for a very unique or specific photography style you may have less vendors to choose from that meet the vision to capture your big day. Fine art styles also come with a price tag.

Skill + Technique

Of course you want to look at photographers who shoot amazing weddings but how do you know from looking at just a few photos on a website? ASK LOTS OF QUESTIONS.

Consider if your venue requires knowledge of artificial lighting techniques or other specific skills? Anyone can snap a photo, but a true professional photographer will have professional camera and lighting equipment as well as the skills and knowledge to shoot in any lighting or wedding situation.

Location

Finding a vendor in your area will save on potential travel fees; Destination wedding photography will always cost much more. Also, the location of your ceremony and or wedding reception can add to the cost of photography.

Many times photographers will charge by the hour, so having split locations will cost you more time our of your package.

Compare

Using sites like The Knot or WeddingWire may help you compare several photographers quickly as well as get confirmed availability for your event.

Package

When on the search for the perfect photographer consider the package as a whole. Most photography packages are based on time and or number of photos they will produce, then the add-ons.

Are you looking for only wedding photos or do you also need engagement photos or possibly bridal images as well? Do you want a company who offers an album or other videography add on? How many photos does the photographer offer in their final package? Do you require a team or an individual?

Discounts

As a rule, most event based service businesses offer reduced pricing on off peak dates or weekdays. Steer clear of peak wedding months like September and October and major holidays to save a few bucks. Consider weekday wedding dates that fall on a long weekend. Will make it easier for your guests to commit as well as reap the benefits and cost savings of a weekday date.

Personality

Something few people think of when considering a business to hire to capture their wedding photography is personality.

Keep in mind that you are spending most of your wedding day with them and maybe even an engagement session before. They will capture photos of your family, the fun throughout the day. When interviewing your potential photographer, that a moment to consider these facts.

A great photographer, will feel like you are friends by the end of the day.

In photography there is a reality so subtle that it becomes more real than reality.
John Appleseed

TAKE AWAY

As a bride and groom searching for an amazing photographer for their big day, we highly recommend thinking of the big picture over focusing purely on price; After all they will be capturing one in a lifetime moments, the beginning of your family and the telling of your wedding day story. No pressure right??

Just remember to compare several packages, ask lots of questions and ask to see images the company has shot of other events. Always check reviews, see what award they might have.

WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT TO PAY?

Consider that hourly rates of wedding day photography range from $200-$500 an hour. Averages will depend on your area. According to The Knot, “Based on an internal study of over 27,000 couples who got married in 2019, the average wedding photographer cost is $2,400.” Based on this information we can assume 6-7 hours of coverage.

Photography pricing most always includes the time and talent to capture and produce images as well as delivery of digital images to the client. Other things to consider on your package is the cost of additional sessions, add on albums, physical prints, videography or additional travel needed.

CONCLUSION

An amazing wedding photographer is worth every penny, it really depends on what you hold the most value in, what your specific wedding day needs are and how flexible you are willing to be to get the best deal. Build your custom wedding package with Lacy Lane Photography HERE.