How Much Does a Wedding Photographer Cost?
Having great photos of your wedding day is a must-have! However, hiring a wedding photographer can be a little overwhelming and you’re probably wondering how much it’s going to cost.
So how much does a wedding photographer cost? The average cost for a wedding photographer is $2000. The pricing with change depending on how many photographers, how many hours your photographer will be working, editing, prints, etc. However, when budgeting for your wedding, $2000 will be a good pricepoint to plan on.
There are some important things to consider when hiring a wedding photographer. Continue reading for more information to help you make your photography decisions.
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Wedding Photographer Cost FAQs
So how much does a wedding photographer cost?
The average cost for a wedding photographer is $2000. The pricing with change depending on how many photographers, how many hours your photographer will be working, editing, prints, etc. However, when budgeting for your wedding, $2000 will be a good pricepoint to plan on.
Is a wedding photographer worth the cost?
Hiring a wedding photographer is definitely worth the cost! When you’ve spent $5,000 to $10,000 to have a beautiful wedding, you will want all the pictures you can get to remember the day.
When do you pay wedding photographer?
Each photographer will their own terms, but generally, photographers ask for a portion or deposit at the time of booking. Then the remaining balance will be due within 30-days before or after the wedding.
When to book your wedding photographer?
You should get your wedding photographer booked as soon as possible – at the beginning of your wedding planning. Many people recommend booking your photographer 9-12 months in advance of your wedding.
Is a Wedding Photographer Worth the Cost?
Hiring a wedding photographer is definitely worth the cost! When you've spent $5,000 to $10,000 to have a beautiful wedding, you will want all the pictures you can get to remember the day.
Additionally, hiring a professional wedding photographer will ensure that you get all the shots you want. Wedding photographers will have a lot of experience with shooting wedding photos. They know the most important moments to captures, which angles to get and so forth.
In the end, your wedding day is just that... one day. Your pictures will last forever. Plus, there will be family members who also want a copy of your wedding photos, so the pictures aren't just for you!
Ultimately you have to look at your budget and how much you can afford. Plus look at what you get for the price to ensure you're getting the best bang for your buck.
When to Pay Wedding Photographer
You might be wondering when you're supposed to pay your wedding photographer.
Each photographer will their own terms, but generally, photographers ask for a portion or deposit at the time of booking. Then the remaining balance will be due within 30-days before or after the wedding.
You'll need to ask your photographer about their payment options ahead of time so you know what to expect.
Some expect the balance to be paid in full before the wedding whereas others require it by 30-days after the wedding so that the couple can use some of the money they got to make the payment.
It completely varies by the photographer.
When to Book Wedding Photographer?
You should get your wedding photographer booked as soon as possible - at the beginning of your wedding planning. Many people recommend booking your photographer 9-12 months in advance of your wedding.
However, if you are having a quick engagement you may not have that much time. Therefore, your photographer should be one of the first bookings you make, along with your wedding venue.
If you have a short engagement, no worries. You will still be able to find a photographer. They may not be your first choice or a high of quality, but there will be someone willing to do it. Also, your choice photographer may have a cancellation so you could still get the one you want in a short amount of time. You just have to ask!
What to Look for When Hiring a Wedding Photographer
One of the first things you should look at before hiring a wedding photographer is their online reviews. Check to see if anyone you know has used this photographer and what their experience was.
Additionally, you should ask to see their portfolio. Many photographers have their own style of editing and posing so you will want to make sure that you like their style. If they don't have an online portfolio, ask if you can see examples of their pictures. Also, check to see if they have a Facebook page as many photographers use Facebook as their online portfolio.
Here is a list of questions that you should ask a photographer before hiring them to find out if they will be a good fit for your wedding. You can also check out a lot more questions to ask here.
Get the downloadable PDF checklist here!
Share your best wedding photographer tips and experiences in the comments!
