Wedding photography is one of the few parts of your day that keeps paying off long after the last dance—so it’s no surprise couples want clear numbers before they commit.
If you’re asking, “how much does a wedding photographer cost,” most couples can expect a wide range: roughly $1,500–$6,000 for many full-day packages, with budget options below and luxury options well above, depending on location, coverage time, and what’s included.
Typical price ranges (and what they usually include)
Across many markets, a common “mid-range” wedding photographer package lands around $2,500–$5,000. This often includes 6–10 hours of coverage, one lead photographer, a set number of edited images delivered in an online gallery, and printing rights for personal use.
At the lower end (often $800–$2,000), you may find newer professionals, smaller-market pricing, or limited coverage like 2–5 hours. These packages can be a fit for courthouse weddings, micro-weddings, or couples who mainly want ceremony and portraits—but you’ll want to confirm backup plans, turnaround time, and what happens if equipment fails.
At the higher end ($6,000–$12,000+), pricing frequently reflects established demand, a distinctive style, more hands-on planning, and extras such as a second photographer, engagement sessions, albums, film add-ons, or multi-day coverage. In major cities and peak dates, top photographers can exceed this range, especially with custom albums or destination logistics.
What drives the cost up or down
Location and date are two of the biggest multipliers. Larger cities tend to have higher business costs and higher going rates, while rural areas can be less expensive. Peak-season Saturdays and popular months command premium pricing; off-season or weekday weddings may qualify for discounted rates or special packages.
Coverage time and staffing also matter. A 10-hour day costs more than a 6-hour day, and adding a second photographer typically adds a meaningful increment because you’re paying for another professional plus more editing. Second shooters are especially valuable for simultaneous moments (getting ready in two places) and for capturing alternate angles during the ceremony and reception.
Finally, what you receive changes the bottom line. Digital-only packages are usually less expensive than packages with albums. Heirloom albums and parent books involve design time, revision rounds, printing, shipping, and quality control—often hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on size and materials. Turnaround speed, extensive retouching, and specialty coverage (drone where legal, film, underwater, same-day edits) can also raise pricing.
How to compare quotes (and avoid hidden costs)
Start by standardizing what you’re comparing. Ask each photographer to break down: hours of coverage, number of photographers, estimated number of delivered images, editing level, delivery timeline, and whether an engagement session is included. Two packages can look similar in price but differ significantly in time on site, staffing, and the amount of usable final imagery.
Watch for line items that can surprise you later. Travel fees may apply if your venue is outside a defined radius, and some destination weddings require airfare, lodging, and per-diem costs. Overtime is another common add-on; many contracts price it per hour, and it’s wise to budget for at least one extra hour if your timeline is tight or you expect the party to run long.
Contract terms are part of “cost,” too. Confirm the retainer amount (often 25%–50%), the payment schedule, cancellation or reschedule policies, and what happens if the photographer is ill. Also ask about image rights: most photographers allow personal printing and sharing, but commercial use and heavy editing by clients may be restricted. When you ask “how much does a wedding photographer cost,” the fairest answer includes these practical terms—not just the headline number.
Conclusion
Most couples will see wedding photography priced from about $1,500 to $6,000 for full coverage, with costs shifting based on location, date, hours, staffing, and deliverables; the best value comes from matching a photographer’s reliability and style to your timeline, not just choosing the lowest quote.
