how much does it cost?

How much does a wedding photographer cost? How much should I budget for a wedding photographer? What can I expect from my wedding photographer?

So you are planning your wedding and now have lots of questions about what it will cost to have your wedding photographed? That is completely understandable and I've got you covered! Below are a few questions that I have seen asked so will try and answer them the best I can. For my answers and more information on the packages I can offer, click here

How Much Does a Wedding Photographer Cost?

Unfortunately, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Several factors influence wedding photography pricing, including:

• Photographer's experience and expertise: More experienced photographers typically charge higher rates. This reflects the years of training, practice and real world experience they have. It can also reflect the knowledge of what to do and level-headedness to do it calmly when things are not going perfectly without you even realising.
• Coverage duration: The number of hours you want the photographer present affects the cost. The shorter the coverage, the higher the per hour cost will be. As you book for longer the per hour cost goes down.
• Number of photographers: Some packages include a second photographer for different perspectives and capturing activities at different locations happening at the same time i.e. groom prep at a different hotel/home.
• Location and travel fees: Expect additional costs if the photographer needs to travel outside their usual area. Most photographers will specify where they are happy to travel to. Some won't travel outside of this area, others will but with additional fees for travel and/or accommodation.
• Included services: Some packages include pre wedding shoots, albums, or other extras that can have an impact on the price.

What is the Average Cost of a Wedding Photographer in the UK?

While averages can be misleading, current estimates suggest UK wedding photographers charge between £1,000 and £5,000, with some experienced professionals reaching and exceeding £5,000. Remember, these are just averages, and your specific package can differ. The average spend in the UK, as of November 2023, is £1760. The cost can vary per region as some areas are more affluent than others and there for have higher costs of living etc.

Investment vs. Cost - What Should You Pay?

With wedding photography, the old adage often holds: you get what you pay for. Think of your photography budget as capturing cherished memories that you'll relive for years to come. Now, if photography lands within your top three priorities, here's a helpful guide:

Finding the Perfect Fit:

Most photographers offer flexible packages, ranging from essential coverage with one photographer for a few hours to more comprehensive options with multiple photographers, extensive coverage time, and beautiful albums. Remember, more isn't always better. Prioritise finding a photographer whose style resonates with you, even if it means opting for a smaller package to fit your budget. It's about capturing your wedding authentically, not just having the most photos.

Avoid Regrets:

We understand budget is important, but consider this: would you rather have a basic package from a photographer you adore, or a large album from someone whose style doesn't align with yours, or who you chose simply because they were cheaper? You can search online and find a lot of horror stories of wrong decisions but luckily there are a lot more positive reviews of people who have made the best decision possible!

Key Steps to Consider:

1. Coverage Time: Decide how long you want your photographer – from getting ready to the first dance, or just the ceremony for example.
2. Style Preference: Determine what kind of photography style you love – natural, documentary, artistic, etc. Then, shortlist photographers who match your taste. Go through their reviews, ask to see full galleries and ask for a quote for what you would like. Once you have all the information, you can make an informed decision.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect photographer who captures your wedding day beautifully and authentically, leaving you with priceless memories you can cherish forever.

Do I Pay for Wedding Photography Before the Wedding?

Payment schedules vary. Some photographers require deposits or instalments, while others request full payment closer to the wedding date. Discuss payment terms clearly with your chosen photographer. The majority of the industry as I know it work by securing the date with a deposit, then the balance is due 4 weeks/30 days before the wedding date.

What Should Be Included in a Wedding Photography Package?

Packages differ, but common inclusions are:

• Coverage hours for ceremony and reception through to the first dance
• Edited digital photos delivered in high resolution
• Online gallery for sharing and downloading
• Pre-wedding consultation
• Travel within a specific radius

Many photographers offer additional services like:

• Engagement sessions / pre wedding shoots
• Wedding albums
• Prints and other products
• Second photographer

Always inquire about what's included in each package and compare to your needs.

What Should I Expect from My Wedding Photographer?

Expect clear communication, professionalism, and a photographer who understands your vision. Look for portfolios that showcase their style and ask questions to ensure a comfortable working relationship. They should be willing to answer simple questions, maybe recommend other suppliers they have experience of working with and share tips about the venue you have booked if they have shot there before. They could also offer advice on what happens on a wedding day if you are unsure what will happen.

How Much of My Budget Should be Spent on Wedding Photography?

Everyone's answer will be different on this. One of the main things to consider is how important photography is to you. Allocate a comfortable portion of your overall wedding budget to photography. Research different photographers, understand their pricing structures, and choose a package that aligns with your priorities and budget. Remember, investing in high-quality photography ensures precious memories last a lifetime. The more important photography is to you, the more of your budget you can allocate to it.

When working out the cost of your wedding photography package, you can be assured of the following:

• Photographer's experience and expertise: I have over 16 years of experience, with almost 500 weddings photographed. During that time I have gained valuable experience on how to work with people, especially ones who do not like being photographed, what to expect at all points of the day and little things like knowing how to pin the button holes on and how to lace a corset-backed dress. All things you might not know if this is your first experience of a wedding.
• Coverage duration: I offer coverage from 2 hours up to multiple day coverage depending on the events. My standard package includes coverage from preparations in the morning to the dancing in the evening. This will be at least 10 hours.
• Second Photographer: I can offer another photographer to provide coverage from another location and other perspectives during the wedding day.
• Location and travel fees: All travel is included for weddings that are within 2 hours of Leicester. Anything over this will require accommodation costs to be considered as well. If flights/transfers are involved, then a completely bespoke package can be provided.
• Included services: See below what is included in my standard package:

what is included?

all day coverage

high resolution images

I will photograph from the getting ready, all throughout the day to party in the evening, not limited to set hours.

Over 500+ images will be processed and edited in my simple and honest style then provided to you in high resolution ready for printing

pre wedding consultation

print license

A time to chat, get to know each other better, go through your vision for your wedding day and how I can capture it in the best way

A license to print and share your images as you wish with your friends and family!

client portal

secure online gallery

All your documents and links in one place. Everything from your contract to your final gallery and album design, all together using just one password

Your own personalised, online password protected gallery which can be shared with your friends and family, near and far.

Memories forever

my full support

I will capture as much of your wedding day as possible, catching moments you will cherish forever and even snap bits you didn’t even see yourself!

You will get my full support all day using over 15 years of experience to help you have the best day possible

The price for all this: £1750

BREAKDOWN: £350 DEPOSIT TO SECURE THE DATE. BALANCE PAYMENT OF £1400 DUE 2 WEEKS BEFORE YOUR WEDDING DAY

What Should I Expect from You?

You can expect quick clear communication, professionalism, and a photographer who understands your vision. If you'd like to see more full galleries to see what I can offer, then please ask. If I have shot at your venue before, I can send over the relevant gallery. If I haven't, I can send over galleries from the same time of year or similar venues. You can ask for recommendations on other suppliers for your wedding, I will let you know my experience with them and how I think they will work well for you. I will also offer any tips & tricks I know to help you make the best of your wedding day. I will work with you and your other suppliers to help you have the most epic wedding possible!

are you getting married abroad?

I love to photograph weddings and I also love to travel so to be able to combine travel with photographing weddings is always amazing! I have already had the opportunity to photograph weddings in France, Italy & Morocco, which were all awesome!

If you are getting married outside of the UK, please contact me with your plans and we can discuss a special package that will suit you.

I'd love to be a part of your destination wedding adventure. Get in touch today and lets discuss your perfect day.