While searching for that perfect photographer to capture your day, you may notice a wide gamut in both offerings and skill. Every wedding photographer sets their prices differently, so how do you know what price is reasonable? What is the average, and what’s the expense for exceptional work? Let us help explain wedding photography pricing.

Wedding Photography Pricing Explained

It is a common misconception that photographers charge higher rates for weddings to exploit their clients. As with anything we buy, there is a higher price tag associated with a higher quality of product and/or service.

There are many reasons wedding photographers charge what they do. The first being it’s hard work! You have to be able to constantly switch gears mentally, quickly adapt to different lighting scenarios, juggle the unexpected (no wedding goes off perfectly without a hitch), rework fallen apart timelines, be a master of posing, and more – all while under a time crunch.

You only have one shot to capture all of the images you need. It takes an enormous level of skill to perform this job, and yet an even higher level to produce extraordinary results consistently.

It should also go without saying that the years of experience someone has as a wedding photographer holds tremendous value. Someone with experience knows where to be and when, they know what questions to ask, they are more nimble on their feet when it comes to hiccups, and of course, they should be providing you with exceptional products and services.

This all goes without mentioning anything that takes place before and after the wedding day itself. Your photographer starts working with you from your very first email or call, and the experience you have with them isn’t complete until after you receive your images and/or products.

The Details

When searching for a wedding photographer, you will see there are many differences while inspecting price lists.

You will see wedding photographers that use an A La Carte system which allows you the freedom to choose your hours of coverage. You have the option to choose to add-on services and products at the time of booking or at a later date (such as deciding to add on a bridal portrait session or rehearsal dinner coverage).

You will also see photographers who use a package or collection system for their offerings. This is when you see hours bundled with services such as an engagement session, album(s), bridal portrait session, etc. Generally, purchasing from a collection or package comes with a bit of savings. This is the same as when you choose a combo at your favorite fast-food restaurant vs purchasing each item separately.

Please also note that when comparing price lists and collections from one photographer to another, it’s not always apple to apples. Pay attention to the details of what is included in packages. Pull out your calculator and do your due diligence. You might find that a photographer who seemed overpriced at first glance gives incredible value once everything is added up!

Here at DeLong Photography, we offer both collections AND an A La Carte list. Some couples prefer to take a DIY approach while others prefer to choose from a group of selections. We run a highly customizable business in that we are happy to tailor-make a package for you. If you don’t see an item or service in a collection, no sweat. Just get in touch and we’ll send you a custom quote.

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We hope this is helpful to current and future engaged couples! Ready for an amazing wedding day? Get in touch!

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