The Average Wedding Photographer Cost Near You
Your wedding day is one of the most important and memorable days of your life. You want to capture every special moment – from the walk down the aisle to the first dance to cutting the cake. Hiring a professional wedding photographer is key to getting beautiful images that will last a lifetime.
But at what cost? Wedding photography prices vary widely depending on the photographer’s experience, reputation, and what’s included. The national average wedding photographer cost in 2024 is around $2,500, but prices typically range between $1,500 – $5,000+.
In this article, we’ll break down the factors that impact wedding photography costs and what to expect at different price points. Read on for tips to find an affordable photographer and determine the ideal budget for your big day!
Factors That Influence Average Wedding Photographer Cost
Several key factors impact how much you can expect to spend on a wedding photographer:
Experience Level
An experienced wedding photographer who has been shooting for 10+ years will typically charge more than a beginner. They have an extensive portfolio showcasing their photography skills.
- Beginner: $800 – $1500
- Hobbyist: $1200 – $2000
- Experienced: $2500+
Location
Wedding photographers in high-cost metropolitan areas like New York City and Los Angeles often charge higher rates. Photographers in smaller cities or rural areas may have more competitive pricing.
- Major metro area: $3000+
- Mid-sized city: $2000 – $3500
- Small town: $1000 – $2500
Reputation & Demand
Top photographers can command premium pricing, especially if they are well-known, have won awards, and are highly sought after for their artistic style. Less established photographers tend to be more budget-friendly.
- High demand: $4000+
- Moderate demand: $2500 – $3500
- Low demand: Under $2000
Type of Photographer
- Full-service photographers who shoot the engagement and wedding day and offer albums/prints tend to cost more than à la carte shooters.
- Freelancers are often more affordable than photographers associated with a large studio.
- Associate or second shooters under a primary photographer offer lower rates.
Package Offerings
Photographers offer different wedding collections, tiers, and à la carte options. More coverage time, additional photographers, albums, prints, and editing will increase the price. Simple elopement packages may start around $1000.
Personal vs. Business Use
If you only need a few select images and plan to share digitally, costs will be lower than if you want full rights and prints for professional use. Commercial use licensing fees add to the photographer’s rate.
Understanding these cost factors allows you to narrow your search to wedding photographers that fit your vision and budget. Flexibility on experience level, location, and offerings can help keep prices affordable.
What Does a $1500 Wedding Photographer Provide?
At the lower end of the price spectrum, $1500 is typical for an amateur or hobbyist wedding photographer. This is a good option for couples wanting to save money but still have beautiful photos.
Here’s an overview of what is often included at the $1500 price point:
Coverage:
- 8 hours of shooting time
- 1 photographer
- Photos of getting ready, ceremony, family portraits, reception
Deliverables:
- High-resolution digital images
- Online gallery
- Print release for personal use
Albums & Prints:
- No albums or prints are included. Additional cost to purchase.
For $1500, you’ll get complete digital coverage of your wedding day and full rights to the images. But prints, albums, and multiple photographers will be an extra expense. Working with an amateur photographer is ideal for smaller weddings and budget-focused couples.
What Does a $2500 Wedding Photographer Provide?
The average $2500 wedding photographer is experienced with a solid portfolio. This mid-range price point is the benchmark for couples wanting high-quality images and customizable packages.
Here’s what’s often included at the $2500 average rate:
Coverage:
- 10 hours of shooting time
- 1 main photographer + 1 second shooter
- Getting ready, ceremony, portraits, reception
Deliverables:
- High-resolution digital images
- Online gallery
- Print release
Albums & Prints:
- Small album included
- Discount on additional albums/prints
For $2500, you’ll get your choice of high-end packages and add-ons to customize the perfect photography experience. While more limited than high-end collections, a $2500 photographer will beautifully capture your wedding day’s moments.
What Does a $3500 Wedding Photographer Provide?
Hiring a $3500 wedding photographer means working with an experienced professional with an impressive portfolio. At this price point, you can expect premium coverage, products, and services.
Here are the typical $3500 wedding photography offerings:
Coverage:
- 12+ hours of shooting time
- 2+ photographers
- Full wedding day coverage
- Engagement or bridal shoot
Deliverables:
- High-resolution digital files
- Online gallery
- Print release
Albums & Prints:
- Wedding album included
- Credit towards additional products
For $3500, you’ll receive comprehensive wedding photography with plenty of flexibility and customization options. Multiple photographers ensure every moment is captured to tell the complete story of your big day.
What Does a $5000+ Wedding Photographer Provide?
At the highest end of the pricing spectrum, $5000+ wedding photographers are elite professionals sought after for their artistic style and talent. Expect bespoke packages with plenty of perks.
Here’s what you’ll often receive when hiring a $5000+ wedding photographer:
Coverage:
- Unlimited hours
- 2+ lead shooters + assistants
- Engagement shoot, wedding day, next day brunch
Deliverables:
- High-resolution digital files with print rights
- Private online gallery
- Pro session with makeup artist
Albums & Prints:
- Premium album + parents’ albums
- Wall art canvas print
- Credit for additional fine art products
Booking a top-tier wedding photographer for $5000+ ensures unmatched expertise in capturing one-of-a-kind fine art images. You’ll work with an acclaimed photography master to document your wedding in a truly elevated way.
How to Get the Best Value
Getting beautiful wedding photos doesn’t have to blow your budget. Use these tips to find the ideal photographer at the right price point:
Ask about different packages – Compare collections and tiers to find one that fits your must-haves. Ask what’s included at each pricing level.
Inquire about discounts – See if you can get a deal for an off-peak date, limited hours, or minimal printing.
Consider à la carte – Building a custom package with your photo priorities can save money.
Check for unseen fees – Watch for extra charges like travel, assistants, and sales tax.
Book early – Reserve your photographer 6-12 months in advance to get the best rate.
Trim the guest list – Having fewer people means you may need fewer hours and shooters.
DIY an album – Design your own album through an online vendor to save.
Skip the second shooter – If it’s a small wedding, you may not require more than one photographer.
Price compare – Check rates of various photographers to find good value at your budget level.
Negotiate respectfully – Politely ask if the photographer can work within your budget, but don’t lowball.
Booking an affordable wedding photographer is possible for any budget. Define your photo priorities, weigh the costs, and use these money-saving tips to feel confident you’re getting a great deal on average wedding photographer costs.
FAQs
How much should I budget for photography?
Aim to budget 10-15% of your overall wedding costs towards photography. The national average spent is around $2500, but less expensive packages are available at $1500 and up.
How many hours of coverage do I need?
8-10 hours is recommended to photograph getting ready fully, ceremony, family formal, and reception events. Additional hours may be required for very large guest counts.
Is a second shooter necessary?
A second shooter ensures no moments are missed. It’s recommended for large weddings of 100+ guests or if events are spread across multiple locations.
Are digital files or prints included?
You’ll receive high-resolution digital images to share online and print yourself. But actual albums, wall art, and photo prints will be an additional cost.
Can I negotiate wedding photography prices?
You can ask politely if a photographer has any wiggle room on rates for your wedding date or package. But don’t expect huge discounts on peak days.
