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How Much Does A Wedding Photographer Cost in 2025?
A broad question with a broad answer. In this article I will attempt to answer this question as best as I can. I will explain what factors play a role in wedding photographers’ pricing and give you an idea of how much does a wedding photographer actually cost. Let’s dive in.
What goes into wedding photographers’ pricing?
Pricing in wedding photography isn’t as straight forward as you might think. After all photography is an art and as every art, it is subjective, so how do we price art?
To give you an idea, a typical full-day wedding photography package could range anywhere between £500 and £5,000 in the vast majority. Having said that, of course you might find somebody who will charge less than £500 and there are photographers out there who charge more than £5,000. A 10-fold difference from the bottom to the top range. You might be asking yourself what causes this and how do wedding photographers actually determine their pricing? The answer might be not so simple.
Rationally thinking I would probably say that things such as equipment cost, travel cost, expertise and experience are the main factors. Especially experience. Having said that, I know a wedding photographer toward the end of his career, who charges £900 for a full-day coverage. This is where pricing in wedding photography becomes a little more subjective and is determined by more than experience, equipment, travel costs and skill.
Supply and demand
First of all, as with any product or service, there is a certain level of supply and demand which always influences the price of the product or service to a certain degree. Marketing and especially the way a certain photographer is perceived can have a huge impact on their pricing as well. As is with most things in life, you get what you pay for - meaning, more expensive photographers tend to be of higher quality, although not always. You can stumble upon great wedding photographers who are in the beginning of their careers and still not charging what they should be charging. It’s always worth shopping around.
You might stumble upon a photographer who charges £3,500 for a full day coverage, and you might be thinking how the hell is that possible? Art. It’s subjective. You might not like someone’s work, but there might be many people who love it and are willing to pay the asking price so their wedding gallery is produced in the photographer’s signature style.
As a photographer you look around you, set a price you think is reasonable for the service you offer and if people are happy to pay it, great. It means you’re doing something right. As your career progresses you hopefully develop as a photographer, you expand your skills, knowledge, experience and expertise and should charge more. As you can see in the example I gave with the photographer who is towards the end of his career and only charges £900, this isn’t always the case.
Marketing skills
The marketing skills a photographer has or outsources to professionals play a critical role in their pricing. Being able to market yourself well you get exposure to more couples, which leads to more enquiries, higher individual demand and ultimately, higher pricing. I know of great photographers who have been in the industry more than 10 years but only charge the average, and I know of wedding photographers in the beginning of their careers who charge more than the “national average”.
Wedding photographer’s process from start to finish
Pre-wedding chat/call/in-person meet (1-2 hours)
Travel time to get to your wedding (varies)
Photographing your wedding (8-12 hours)
Travel time to get back home (varies)
Selecting the best images to edit (a couple of hours)
Editing your wedding photos (up to a week)
Delivering your photos (a couple of hours)
In total a wedding photographer might spend around 50 hours on each wedding. If the average full day wedding package is £1,500, this equals to just over £30 an hour.
What does the pricing of a photographer indicate?
As I mentioned above, you usually get what you pay for and higher price does normally mean higher perceived quality. After all, if a wedding photographer set their price at £5,000 and nobody paid it for a year, they would decrease the price and wouldn’t be at £5,000 any longer. But if people keep paying it consistently, it should mean that the photographer is indeed worth £5,000. Again, you might not like their particular style or work so much, but there might be many other people who do and are willing to pay to get it.
Generally speaking, photographers who charge more tend to do less weddings than photographers who charge less. I only know one photographer who charges £5,000 and he doesn’t take more than 20 weddings a year. I also know a photographer who charges under £1,000 and does around 60 weddings a year. What does that mean for you? Quality over quantity. Photographers who charge more typically devote more time to each couple and ultimately provide a better experience. It’s one of the reasons I only take on 25 weddings a year. I want to be able to connect with each couple, meet with them in person if I can, and also it means that I don’t have to rush the editing which has a crucial role in the outcome.
What do you get for your money?
In this article I’ve chosen to focus on a basic full-day wedding photography package. This will typically include:
Pre-wedding consultation (chat, video-call, or a face to face meeting - I always prefer the latest)
8 - 12 hours of coverage, normally from your preparations until the first dance
A good amount of photos, edited and delivered in an online gallery
Most photographers also offer extras such as:
Coverage until the end
Second photographer
Wedding album
Quick edit
Print packages
Engagement session
How much should you spend on a wedding photographer?
It depends on your budget. Set a realistic amount aside for photography - £1,500 to £3,500. If your budget allows it, go higher than that. According to Hitched’s National Wedding Survey, 40% of couples in 2023 spent between £1,500 and £3,000 on photography.
Your photos will be the main way to relive the emotions from your wedding so you shouldn’t compromise on the quality of your photographer. Find someone whose work you love and you’d be happy if your wedding gallery is in their style and book them as soon as you can.
Where to next?
How to pick your wedding venue and why is it the most important step in wedding planning? Find out here.
4 Wedding Venues To Get Married In Folkestone
Getting Married in Folkestone?
Are you from Folkestone or nearby? Why look for for venues further than your doorstep when there are some great choices literally around the corner. Closer venue means you travel less, your guests get to your venue much easier, it’s really easy to deal with and you can potentially save some money along the way.
The venue is probably the most important part of your wedding planning which is why most couples book the venue first. Once you have this sorted you can then look for more local suppliers to the venue. The venue will, to a degree, set the vibe for your wedding and also have a massive role in what your photos might look like.
There are plenty lovely wedding venues to pick from in the Folkestone area and below are 4 of my favourite.
Lympne Castle
Capacity: 90 seated, 130 total
Starting price: not disclosed
Distance from Folkestone Town: 8.5 miles, ~ 17 minutes drive
A Medieval Castle, a historic landmark in the village of Lymph, Kent, above the Romney Marsh. Located on 139 acres of beautiful English countryside, spattered with ancient Roman ruins overlooking the English Channel.
Lympne Castle is in the heart of Kent, making it the perfect location for one-of-a-kind wedding celebration. The castle has a rich history dating back to Roman times and has been a venue for hospitality since the 12th century. With its unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities, the castle offers a truly unforgettable experience for both you and your guests.
Visit Lympne Castle’s website here.
The Old Kent Barn
Capacity: 150 seated, 250 total
Starting price: not disclosed
Distance from Folkestone Town: 5.8 miles, ~ 12 minutes drive
This charming 250-year-old barn was originally used to house cattle and hay, and now, after being transformed by the Simmons Family, it’s one of the most magical, barn wedding venues in Kent.
Recognised locally, regionally and nationally for wedding and venue team, The Old Kent Barn are 5-time winners of the Kent Wedding Awards, double consecutive winners of The British Wedding Awards and 4-time winners of The Wedding Industry Awards.
Visit The Old Kent Barn’s website here.
Hayne House
Capacity: 120 seated, 150 total
Starting price: not disclosed
Distance from Folkestone Town: 5.6 miles, ~ 16 minutes drive
Hayne House, a family-run, exclusive-use, countryside wedding venue with a luxury purpose-built Orangery. Set in a picturesque private estate, couples have voted Hayne House as one of the best Kent wedding venues.
Visit Hayne House’s website here.
The Castle Westenhanger
Capacity: 120 seated
Starting price: £7580
Distance from Folkestone Town: 8.1 miles, ~ 14 minutes drive
A unique and romantic wedding venue steeped in history and bursting with charm. The fairytale medieval castle in nestled in the beautiful Kent countryside and offers exclusive use on your special day.
The Castle Westenhanger has two spacious dressing areas on the ground floor and first floor of the Manor House, allowing you and your partner to get ready at the venue while remaining completely separate. The Elizabeth Suite and The Discovery Room have recently been renovated to look spectacular in your wedding photos while ensuring you feel relaxed, comfortable and at home.
Visit The Castle Westenhanger’s website here.
Where to next?
Don’t tell anyone, but… I always stay until later at local weddings. If you’re looking for a Folkestone wedding photographer, click here.
How To Pick The Best Venue For Your Wedding (and why is the venue so important)
Want to find out how to pick the best venue for your wedding? This article will give you an idea of the most important factors you need to consider when choosing your venue.
Clapton Country Club, London
Planning a wedding is an exciting journey but it can also be quite overwhelming. One of the biggest decisions you'll make (apart from choosing your husband or wife) is choosing the right venue for your big day. But why is the venue so important? Keep reading to find out.
The Significance of Choosing the Right Wedding Venue
The venue sets the stage for your entire wedding day. It's where your memories will be made, your photos will be taken, and your guests will gather to celebrate with you. No pressure, right? Finding the right place can make everything else fall into place, so it's worth taking the time to get it right. It is also the starting point of your wedding planning. Finding the rest of the suppliers for your wedding has got everything to do with the venue. For example, if your venue is in Essex, you will likely be looking for wedding florists in Essex, hairdressers in Essex and so on. Some wedding vendors (I hate using this term but I do for the lack of a better one) like your photographer and videographer are a lot more mobile than others. Also having local suppliers will most likely cost less than having suppliers from the other side of the country.
Understanding Your Wedding Vision and Theme
First things first: what kind of wedding do you envision? Are you dreaming of a rustic barn wedding, a castle vibe or a beachside celebration? Your venue should reflect your style and the overall vibe you want for your wedding. Consider what makes you and your partner unique and how you can bring that into your venue choice. From a photography perspective, your venue is what will determine the look of your wedding gallery to a huge extent.
According to Hitched’s National Wedding Survey in 2023, barns were the most popular venue types in 2023.
Determining Your Budget and Venue Costs
Your budget will play a huge role in determining which venues are in the running. It's essential to have a clear idea of what you can afford before you start touring places. Your venue will probably be your biggest spend for your wedding and it’s worth investing the time to pick the right one. According to the survey by Hitched quoted above, the average wedding cost in the UK in 2023 was £20,700, and the average venue cost was just under £9,000 which is close to 50% of the entire budget.
Location - Picking the Perfect Spot
West Sussex
Where you get married matters. Think about your guests and how they'll get to the venue. Is it easy to find? Is there plenty of parking? If you're having a lot of out-of-town guests, you might want a venue that's close a hotel and a bus or train station. And don't forget about the scenery - whether it's a breathtaking view or a cosy indoor space, the location sets the mood.
Guest List Considerations: Size and Accommodation
Your guest list will also influence your venue choice. You need a space that can comfortably accommodate everyone without feeling too cramped or too empty. Make sure the venue has the right capacity for your expected number of guests and offers the necessary amenities, like restrooms and seating. Most venues have multiple sections different in size to accommodate various guest counts.
Venue Style: From Rustic Barns to French Chateaus
There are so many different venue styles to choose from, and each offers its own charm. Whether you're into rustic barns, elegant ballrooms, industrial lofts, or beachfront properties, there's something out there for everyone. Consider what style resonates with you and your partner and fits the theme of your wedding.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Venues: Pros and Cons
Clapton Country Club, London
Deciding between an indoor or outdoor venue is another biggie. Outdoor weddings can be stunning, but they come with the risk of unpredictable weather. Indoor venues offer more control over the environment but might not have the natural beauty you're looking for. Weigh the pros and cons of each option to see what suits your needs best. The best option is choosing a venue with both outdoor and indoor areas that you love, simply because of the unpredictable British weather.
Checking Availability: Booking Early and Peak Seasons
Popular venues can book up fast, especially during peak wedding season. If you have your heart set on a specific date or venue, it's crucial to start your search early. Be prepared to be flexible with your date if necessary, as this can open up more options and reduce the final cost of your wedding. You should expect to pay more for a weekend in-season wedding than for a mid-week off-season wedding and I think this goes for most wedding suppliers and vendors.
Amenities and Services: What to Look for in a Venue
Some venues offer all-inclusive packages, while others might just provide the space. Always check what your venue offers in terms of decor and catering for example. If the venue provides those it can save you time looking for yet more suppliers to deal with. My thinking when it comes to wedding planning is the fewer people you deal with, the less to think about, and the less stress. That’s why sometimes it’s a great choice to have a wedding planner if your budget allows for one.
Catering Options: In-House vs. External Vendors
Clapton Country Club, London
Food is a big deal at weddings, so you'll want to make sure your venue can accommodate your catering needs. Some venues have in-house catering, which can simplify things, but it might limit your menu options. Others allow external vendors, giving you more flexibility to choose exactly what you want.
Visit Your Favourite Picks
Photos and online reviews are helpful, but nothing beats seeing a venue in person. Schedule tours of your top choices to get a real feel for the space. Pay attention to the layout, the ambience, and how the staff interacts with you. Trust your gut—if a place feels right, it probably is.
Logistics and Coordination with Other Vendors
Your venue will need to work seamlessly with your other vendors, like the caterer, florist, and DJ. Ask about any supplier rules, restrictions or recommendations the venue might have. Good coordination can ensure everything runs smoothly on your big day.
Testimonials and Reviews: Learning from Other Couples
Check out reviews from other couples who have tied the knot at the venue. Their experiences can provide valuable insights into what you can expect. Pay attention to any recurring themes, both positive and negative, to help inform your decision.
Trusting Your Instincts
At the end of the day, trust your instincts. You want a venue that feels right for you and your partner. If a place gives you that "this is it" feeling, go for it. Your wedding day should be a reflection of your love story, and the right venue will help tell that story beautifully.
Making Your Wedding Day Unforgettable with the Right Venue
Clapton Country Club, London
Choosing the perfect wedding venue is a big step, but it's also an exciting one. By considering your vision, budget, guest list, and all the little details, you can find a place that makes your wedding day everything you've dreamed of. Remember to enjoy the process and trust that you'll find the perfect spot to say "I do”.
Where to next?
Check out Ruth and Dan’s Bury Court Barn Wedding here.
What’s in my camera bag as a documentary wedding photographer
What’s in my camera bag as a documentary wedding photographer? Find out what gear I use and what significance I place on equipment in photography in general.
I remember when I first started in photography I used to watch videos and read articles with similar headlines.
I was in the stage during which photographers put too much thought into their gear and believe gear matters a lot more than it actually does.
It was only when I obtained all the equipment I thought would be a “game-changer” that I realised it was only a part of the whole picture and not the most important one.
Nevertheless, I’d like to show you what’s in my camera bag as a professional documentary wedding photographer.
I am and I’ve always been a Nikon shooter. I don’t think photographers switch brands much. Most of us stick with whatever brand we start with. It’s too costly to switch and in most cases, not what you think you need anyway.
The camera bodies I use:
Nikon Z7ii
Nikon Z6ii
The lenses I use:
Nikon Z 35mm f1.8
Sigma F 85mm f1.4
Nikon Z 70-200mm f2.8
Tamron F 24-70mm f2.8
Flash:
Godox V860III
The rest of the stuff in my bag is mostly backup and cleaning bits and bobs. Spare batteries, spare memory cards, headache tablets and mints.
Photography gear is without doubt important in the outcome of one’s work, ultimately, there are certain limitations cheaper gear imposes on various aspects of photography. At this point in my photography journey, I’m fixating on equipment a lot less than I once used to and instead focusing on other aspects of the craft I can improve on.