What is The Average Cost of A Wedding Photographer?


If you've found yourself pondering the question of how much to allocate for wedding photography, you're likely aware of the complexities and stress associated with finding a definitive answer.


While a Google search might suggest an average cost of around $2000 according to WeddingWire, it leaves crucial questions unanswered. What kind of photographers fall within that price range? Are they novices or seasoned professionals? How much experience do they possess, and what's their photographic style? These are vital inquiries demanding thorough answers.


To demystify this dilemma, this article aims to shed light on:

  1. The various types of wedding photographers.
  2. The average charges within each category.
  3. How much you should invest based on your wedding specifics, preferences, budget, and desired experience.


Breaking down the cost range for wedding photographers:


  1. Brand New: $0-$500
  • Photographers in their early stages, aiming to build their initial portfolio. Limited confidence and quality in their work.
  1. Beginner: $500-$1200
  • Those who may have shot a wedding before but lack certain skills, using entry-level equipment. Still refining their capabilities.
  1. Amateur: $1200-$2000
  • Photographers capturing a few weddings annually with mid-level gear. Developing a style but may not have high demand.
  1. Growing Amateur: $2000-$3000
  • The majority of wedding photographers fall into this category. Part-time, investing in quality gear and education. Ideal for couples on a budget seeking good quality.
  1. Professional: $4000-$6000
  • Full-time photographers with an established, in-demand style. Focused on delivering a top-tier wedding experience alongside high-quality images.
  1. Luxury/Destination: $6000 Plus
  • Catering to high-profile events or destination weddings, with refined styles. Recommended for large, luxurious events or international weddings.


Factors influencing pricing:


  1. Lifestyle:
  • Photographers' personal situations, such as age, marital status, and family, may impact their pricing.
  1. Location:
  • Geographical considerations play a significant role, with local prices differing from those for destination weddings.
  1. Expertise:
  • Beyond experience, top-notch skills in various aspects like client experience, wedding planning, and problem-solving contribute to pricing.
  1. Experience:
  • Naturally, photographers with more extensive experience command higher fees.


As for wedding videography, similar principles apply, with average prices often slightly lower. Combining photo and video services into a team may offer cost savings, simplicity, fewer professionals at the wedding, and maintained quality.


Determining your investment:


Considerations for determining your budget include:

  1. Wedding Type and Location:
  • Standard, luxury, elopement, or destination weddings in different locations may warrant different budget allocations.
  1. Desired Services:
  • If you want a wedding film, additional sessions, prints, etc., factor these into your budget.


General scenarios for budgeting:

  1. Standard Wedding: $3000-$6000
  2. Elopement in the U.S.: $2000-$5000
  3. International Destination Wedding: $5000-$9000


Pro tip: Inquire about payment plans if a preferred photographer slightly exceeds your budget.


For those with tighter budgets, thorough research is essential. Ask pertinent questions about backups, posing style, handling delays, and request to see full wedding galleries to ensure a photographer's suitability for your big day.