How much should you expect to spend on your dream wedding photographer in 2023 ?
To all couples out there, if you're planning your big day in 2023 then we know it's not an easy feat. With so much to think about and budget for, how are you supposed to make sure everything is perfect? One of the most important aspects that shouldn't be neglected is wedding photography! To help with this daunting task I have some great news... In this article I am breaking down what makes up a photographer’s cost from their point of view – giving knowledge into exactly where your hard earned dollars will go - plus extra details on why investing in those memories matters. So let us take away that anxiety around worrying over money; Afterall these photos should remind you fondly not only just for years but generations come!
PRO TIP : ASK YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER SMART QUESTIONS LIKE DO THEY HAVE BACKUPS? WHAT IS THEIR POSING STYLE? WHAT DO THEY DO IF THE WEDDING RUNS LATE? CAN YOU SEE FULL WEDDING GALLERIES? HOW MANY WEDDINGS HAVE THEY SHOT? ETC.
Are you wondering what determines a photographer's prices for special events like weddings? Of course, there are many pieces to the puzzle that make up how photographers arrive at their rates. Get ready-- here comes your insider guide on understanding why shots cost what they do!
Lifestyle
A photographer who is 23 and single won't charge the same amount as a photographer who is older and married with kids. You will find yourself drawn to certain types of photographers because you can relate to them based of where they are in their lives and their lifestyles.
Location
This is one of the most important factors.
Cost of living is also a huge factor for photographers who don't travel. A professional Nashville photographer may start at $4000 where a professional Los Angeles photographer may start at $8000 or more to cover the increased cost of living.
Experience
It goes without saying that experience is crucial to being confident in your photographer. Someone who has shot dozens of weddings and knows how to confidently work them is going to charge more than someone who has only shot a couple.
Expertise
This is different than experience, a photographer with top notch skills not only in photography but also in client experience, wedding planning, problem solving, and business ownership is invaluable compared to a photographer who does not have those skills. We see many photographers who may have shot a few dozen weddings, but still don't know much about how to deliver an amazing experience or fix fundamental problems in their images.
Things That Determine How Much Should a Wedding Photographer Cost
PRO TIP: IF YOU WANT A PHOTOGRAPHER THAT IS A LITTLE OUT OF YOUR BUDGET, ASK THEM ABOUT PAYMENT PLANS! MANY PHOTOGRAPHERS OFFER THEM TO MAKE IT EASIER FOR YOU, INCLUDING US. WE KNOW IT'S A BIG INVESTMENT, AND WE ARE HERE FOR YOU!
Here are the six different categories of wedding photographers and the average cost of each of them :
Brand New: $0-$500 :
These are photographers who are just starting out. They have never shot a wedding before and are looking to build their initial portfolio. They will likely not be able to make you feel confident in their ability to perform at a wedding or deliver high quality images.
Beginner: $500-$1200 :
These types of photographers may have shot a wedding before. They can pull it off, however lack the ability to provide natural posing or other skills that provide a pleasant experience. These people most likely still use beginner level gear that provides below average quality photo and they are still learning.
Amateur: $1200-$2000
These types of photographers most likely photograph a handful of weddings per year. They can pull off a wedding with an okay experience and have mid-level gear for decent images. However they are still developing their style, so they may not have a high demand as a result.
Advanced: $2000-$3000
This price is where the majority of wedding photographers are. At this level they may still be part time, but begin investing in good gear, backups, education, and are refining their style with a good portfolio. Therefore you know they will get fairly consistent results and give you a good experience.
This is a good level for couples with a tighter budget who still want quality work.
Professional: $4000-$6000:
These types of photographer are more experienced and have a solid in-demand style of photographs. At this level, these photographers are more likely to focus on the clients experience to ensure that you not only get high quality images, but also eliminate stress and anxiety for your wedding.
I recommend this level to all couples who care deeply for high quality images and a top tier wedding experience.
View our website for an example
Luxury/Destination: $6000 Plus:
Some also start at $8k, $10k, or higher. These types of photographers have no issue handling high profile events with ease and have a refined style specifically for luxury events or destination weddings.
We recommend this level to clients who are having a very large, luxurious wedding event, or an international destination wedding.
PHOTOGRAPHERS & PRICING CATEGORIES
Your wedding day is one of the most special days in your life--it's a moment you will relish for years to come! That being said, why invest so much into those decorations guests won't be able to recall after? To capture these memories and keep them alive forever, what can truly make it possible are professional photos. But quality comes at cost...if you want amazing images that'll last through time and provide an unforgettable experience along the way then fork out $5000 minimum - because lifetime memories like this do not come cheap.
Are you ready to turn your wedding day dreams into a reality? Let's chat and explore the steps towards making that happen - my photography services will capture all of those magical moments in timeless, joyful memories! Contact me now so we can begin this amazing journey together.
