What Determines the Cost of a Wedding Photographer?

Congratulations on your engagement! Planning your big day is an exciting process with lots of moving parts, and one essential piece of the puzzle is your wedding photographer. After all, your wedding photos will be the lasting keepsake from this milestone moment. But with so many wedding photographers to choose from and prices that vary significantly, how do you make sense of what drives the cost?

To help you budget and plan accordingly, we’ve outlined the key factors that influence how much you’ll pay for a wedding photographer. By understanding these, you’ll find the right photographer who fits your style and your budget.

What’s the Average Cost of a Wedding Photographer?

On average, wedding photography packages in the UK range from £500 to £10,000, with the typical full-day package costing £1,200–£1,800. Think of this as a starting point—several factors, such as coverage, location, and extras will influence your final cost.

Factors That Impact Wedding Photographer Fees

Here’s what goes into shaping the cost of wedding photography:

1. How Long They’ll Be With You

Most professional photographers offer full-day coverage (roughly 9–10 hours), capturing everything from the morning prep to the first dance. If you only need a shorter package for an intimate ceremony, you’ll likely pay less. On the other hand, extending the photographer’s hours into late-night celebrations could add to the overall price.

Consider your schedule carefully. Do you need start-to-finish coverage, or just key moments? Many photographers offer customisable packages to suit your needs.

2. Do You Need More Than One Photographer?

While one photographer is often enough, hiring a second shooter has its perks. A second photographer allows for multiple perspectives—one can capture wide group shots while the other focuses on candid reactions. This option is ideal for large weddings or storytelling-focused albums.

Adding a second shooter usually costs £250–£600, but it’s worth considering if you want comprehensive coverage.

3. Travel and Accommodation Costs

Is your wedding in a remote countryside manor or a dreamy destination abroad? If your venue is outside your photographer’s usual area, travel and accommodation costs may apply.

For example, London-based photographers often charge around £500 extra for travel, while prices in Northern England tend to be a bit lower. Be sure to confirm upfront if travel fees are included or charged separately.

4. Experience and Quality of Work

Professional, highly experienced photographers come at a premium—and for good reason. They bring not only technical skills and high-quality equipment but also the creative eye needed to capture your story beautifully. On the flip side, newer or amateur photographers may charge less, but you might miss the polish and reliability of a seasoned pro.

Remember, you’re investing in the one element that preserves the moments you’ll cherish forever. It’s worth prioritising expertise over cost-cutting when choosing your photographer.

5. What’s Included in Their Package

Wedding photography packages are rarely one-size-fits-all. When browsing offers, take note of what’s included:

• Half-day or full-day coverage
• Hand-edited images
• A password-protected online gallery
• An optional wedding album
• Engagement shoots
• Expedited editing services

For example, some photographers include a stunning fine-art wedding album as part of their premium package. Others may offer these add-ons separately or give you the choice to customise.

The key? Look for clarity in the package details and a transparent breakdown of costs.

6. Seasonality and Time of Year

Did you know that peak wedding season (March–October in the UK) often comes with higher photographer fees? With so many celebrations happening during these months, demand for wedding photographers increases, which can drive up prices.

Looking to save? Opt for an off-season wedding in late autumn or winter. Not only will the photography fees potentially be lower, but your other wedding costs might benefit too.

7. Special Editing or Requests

Some couples may ask for unique editing styles, such as vintage filters or adding family members into group shots after the day. These custom requests often require extra time and expertise, which can lead to additional charges.

If you have specific ideas in mind, discuss them with your photographer during the consultation. They’ll be able to provide an accurate cost for any special services.

8. The Photographer’s Personality

This isn’t something you’ll see listed on a price tag, but it’s invaluable. The personality of your photographer can dramatically affect how comfortable you feel on your wedding day. A photographer who makes you laugh, puts you at ease, and truly understands your vibe will create an atmosphere that enhances every photo.

Look for someone who feels more like a partner than just a vendor—it’ll be reflected in their work and in your experience.

9. Additional Services and Costs

Some couples may want extras such as drone photography, videography, or extended online storage for their photo galleries. These services can elevate your wedding memories but often come at an additional cost. Be sure to clarify what’s included and ask about upgrades if these features matter to you.

How to Maximise Your Photography Budget

To get the best value for your money:

• Book early (12–18 months in advance is ideal) to secure your preferred photographer at their current rates.
• Prioritise the services that mean the most to you—if an engagement shoot feels less important, forgo it and allocate the budget elsewhere.
• Be clear about your must-haves during initial consultations to avoid surprise costs later.

Your Photographer, Your Story

When it comes to your wedding day, choosing the right photographer is about more than just budget—it’s about finding someone who clicks with you and your vision. By understanding the factors that influence wedding photography costs, you’ll be better prepared to make a choice that ensures your memories are captured perfectly.

Still searching for the perfect wedding photographer? We’d love to help! Get in touch to explore packages customised just for you. Together, we’ll create a collection of photos that reflect every unforgettable moment of your big day.