Why professional wedding photography cost is so high

Wedding photography is known for being a pricey venture. Everyone knows that wedding photos shouldn’t be taken lightly, and couples often want nothing more than to capture every moment of their special day. But why is professional wedding photography so expensive? In this article, we’ll discuss the many factors that go into making professional wedding photography an expensive endeavour. From quality equipment to experience and expertise, read on to learn more about what makes professional wedding photography such a pricey venture.

The average cost of a wedding photographer in the UK

The price of hiring a wedding photographer in the UK can vary significantly, depending on various factors. Primarily, it is the experience and reputation of the professional that affects how much they are able to charge. Alongside this, things like the number of hours required, how many photographers are needed, what type of album or packaging is chosen and any extra requests can all contribute.

For hiring a professional photographer it is advisable to allocate 5-10% of your wedding budget. Bearing in mind the average cost of a UK wedding in 2023 being ca. £32k, this would be roughly £1,500-£3,300.

Getting creative with your wedding photography can help you save money. Booking early often results in discounts, and midweek or winter weddings sometimes come with special rates. Those on a tighter budget can opt for digital-only packages or fewer hours of coverage. Keep communication open with your photographer, to ensure there are no bill shocks later on.

Why wedding photography is so expensive

The cost of professional wedding photography is due to a variety of reasons. Wedding photographers are professionals in their field, highly skilled at capturing those special moments and producing breathtaking images. It also requires an extensive process; starting with the initial consultation and finishing with the delivery of photos. Furthermore, specific equipment and software must be used to acquire quality results, for example, cameras, lenses, lighting and editing programs. On top of that, custom packages and products may also incur additional expenses.

How to get around the high cost of wedding photography

If you're looking to save on wedding photography, it's wise to book early. Photographers tend to be booked up quickly and often offer discounts for earlier bookings. Additionally, explore your photographer's options for packages or discounts when booking multiple services - some may include engagement photos too. Last but not least, negotiate! Many photographers are willing to work with you in order to stay within your budget.

What does a professional wedding photographer provide?

Professional wedding photographer offers their clients a broad range of services. An engagement session is perfect for the couple to build trust with the photographer and acquire lovely snaps for their wedding stationery. On the big day, the photographer will document every moment, to ensure that all the special memories are kept. Once the wedding is over, they will edit and deliver the pictures to provide couples with a stunning selection of keepsakes.

The difference between amateur and professional wedding photography

When it comes to wedding photography, the difference between professional and amateur photographers is huge! While amateurs may be able to obtain some satisfactory images, they simply lack the level of experience and skill set which come with the territory of being a professional photographer.

These specialists have years of learned knowledge, are familiar with how to achieve the desired outcome and are armed with high-end equipment essential for creating high-calibre photos. It is understandable that these photographers command such expensive fees as they put in extensive preparation beforehand - allocating time for designing each shot and performing post-production editing - not to mention their dedication to getting every detail just right.

The value of a professional wedding photographer

Anybody who has gone through the wedding planning process knows that there are many costs associated with making your special day perfect. These range from dresses to venues and catering, but one of the most expensive items on the budget is usually photography. So why is professional wedding photography so costly?

There are several factors that contribute to these charges.

Firstly, it's important to note that photographers must manage overhead costs such as equipment maintenance and keep up with industry standards and specialised training.

Additionally, many professional photographers also work on other projects than just weddings, thus leaving them with less time for individual clients which drives up their rates.

Finally, what distinguishes professional photography from amateur or friend-provided services is their higher level of quality service. They will listen to your wedding vision and devote time to nailing it on your big day.

And last but not least, professional photographers often have a team of assistants and second shooters working with them on wedding days. This allows them to capture more angles and moments than one person could do alone - giving you even more beautiful photos to cherish from your special day.

How to find a professional wedding photographer

A professional wedding photographer will have an abundance of knowledge and training. They can capture all the special memories of your special day - from the first kiss to the cutting of the cake.
Word-of-mouth is often the best way to find a reliable photographer, so ask family and friends who recently tied the knot for recommendations.

Additionally, online reviews can provide insight into which local photographers might be right for you. Evaluate their portfolios to get a sense of their style and figure out if it complements your vision.

Once you have compiled a list of potential photographers, contact each one to arrange a consultation where you can discuss all your needs and expectations for wedding photography. Ask about packages and prices so that you stay within your budget.

Alternatives to traditional wedding photography

Alternative options to regular wedding photography exist that may help you save money. A popular choice for many couples is using a photo booth which can provide a fun way for guests to remember the day.

Additionally, hiring a student photographer is an option that can prove economical, although the lack of experience could be an issue. Alternatively, you can use your own camera or phone to take candid shots throughout the day for a cost-effective and personal touch.

Conclusion

Investing in professional wedding photography can be costly, but it's a worthwhile expenditure if you're aiming to remember your big day with glorious images. Skilled photographers and top-notch equipment guarantee photographs that will stay with you forever. Since the quality of your photos is so pivotal to the success of your wedding, it's best to do some research on photographers beforehand. This way, you can make sure you've got the right person for the job and get the most out of your money.