When it comes to hiring your wedding photographer, pricing will play an important role in your final decision. With the average wedding photographer costing over $2000, this is one detail of your wedding you don't want to neglect. There are a number of ways you might be able to get the bargain price that fits your budget without sacrificing everything you want.
The Main Factors That Can Affect Wedding Photography Pricing
1. Time, Day and Month
While a beautiful Saturday in May seems like the ideal time to get married, this is peak time for photographers and the pricing can reflect that. The peak months for photographers will, however, vary depending on your location. While June-August is prime wedding season for most east coast and Northern residents these are actually off-season months for those in the southwestern region. If you are planning a destination wedding this is one thing you will want to double check on if you are hiring a local photographer from that area. Opting to have your wedding during the week may result in a lower price with your photographer, and with many other wedding vendors as well such as the venue and caterer. Morning weddings also tend to be less costly with receptions ending in the late afternoon or early evening hours.
2. Hours of Coverage
On average wedding photographers are booked for 8 hours. You can forgo the getting ready shots and can cut off a few hours if you skip the exit shots to reduce the price. If these are must have’s for you talk to your photographer about considering a ‘mock exit’, which can be done earlier in the reception so they won’t have to stick around until the very end.
3. Professionalism
If you are hiring the best wedding photographer in your area you can expect to pay above average for their services. If on the other hand, you take a chance at hiring a newer photographer who doesn't have as much experience in the field you will likely pay below average prices but this may come with its downsides. While many beginning wedding photographers may under price their services to get their feet wet this might show in the images they provide. Not all beginners are a bad option but you do want to make sure you have some samples to review to make sure you won't end up with images you aren't satisfied with.
4. Additions
Second shooters, engagement sessions, additional prints, wedding albums, thank you cards? These are some additions that might be included in your wedding photography package. Having a second photographer for your wedding can be great to make sure all the moments are captured. This also allows for a photographer to be in two locations at the same time without missing a moment, such as one with the bride while she is getting ready and one with the groom. Talk to your photographer about some of the additions you want and some that you may not want at the time you book your wedding photographer. Most Photographers are flexible about creating custom packages to fit your needs and budget.
