The date is set and you’re starting to plan your wedding. A photographer can immortalize this great moment in your life by giving you beautifully shot pictures. Because of the skill required, they don’t come cheap — but before getting to the subject of price, you need to see everything that is involved with wedding photography.
Wedding photography refers to the pictures taken on the wedding day and all aspects related to a wedding; this includes all the ceremonies and receptions. These pictures aren’t just posed shots of people, but can also include candid photos and even pictures of objects.
What Does a Wedding Photographer Do?
Wedding photographers are those individuals that take all the photos, along with setting up packages, editing photos, and meeting with the client to discuss what style they want. River and Me Wedding Co, a Gold Coast wedding photographer, notes that many times a photographer will take thousands of photos, sorting through the best to be used in an album.
While each wedding and photographer are different, you can expect many similar types of photos to be taken at any wedding. For instance, you’ll get shots of the flower girl going down the aisle and the couple saying their wedding vows, along with poses of the groomsmen and bridesmaids.
What Kind of Education Does a Wedding Photographer Need?
Naturally, a wedding photographer should have some degree in photography. This includes not only having knowledge of proper lighting and angles, but a complete photography education also includes everything related to equipment, editing software, and basic business management.
When looking for a wedding photographer, you should always ask to see their portfolio. A good portfolio should give you a good idea of the photographer’s skills, showcasing a wide range of angles, posed and candid shots, and editing techniques.
What Does the Assistant Do?
A photographer assistant is usually an less experienced photographer that is working with a more experienced one. They often do a lot of the photography as well, along with carrying and setting up the equipment, and just generally coordinating with the main photographer.
How Much Should I Expect to Pay for a Wedding Photographer?
The price can vary quite a bit, but the average cost for a wedding photographer is usually around $2,814. This price can fluctuate depending on your location, the level of experience of the photographer, along with what package you are going with. Some photographers charge as much as $10,000.
That Seems Like a Lot, Why Is It So Much?
As mentioned before, a wedding photographer’s job is not just a matter of taking pictures; that is only one part of it. They also need to do a great deal of work on editing, along with spending a considerable amount of time meeting and working with you.
The usual wedding photographer’s price is about 10-15% of the total price of the wedding itself. While it may seem considerable, a good photographer is more than worth it because of all the pictures they have to take and the time spent doing it, along with the mandatory editing.
You can control the costs somewhat by making sure you are getting the package that is right for you. Just because you might be pressured, you probably don’t need the creme-de-la-creme package. In addition, you can also go with less established amateur photographers that you feel comfortable with.
What Are the Different Package Options?
The average package typically lasts as long as a usual work day, so expect to pay for about 8 hours of time. Other packages will fluctuate based on the amount of hours needed, how many photographers you are using, along with the type of album you want. Most packages contain a few essentials related to the photographer itself, the engagement session, the album, and the prints.
How Do I Know If I’m Picking a Good Wedding Photographer?
First you need to look through a few different photographers to find the style that works for you. Make sure to research them by looking at their portfolios and interviewing them. A good wedding photographer should have a personality that you like that meshes with you.
What if I Just Shoot the Wedding Myself?
If you or someone close to you want to, you can do it. Keep in mind a few tips such as planning important shots ahead of time, being willing to direct subjects, and making sure you are shooting a lot; the more photos the better, in fact. Remember that the photographer will only get one chance at many of the most important events, so you should make sure that whoever you choose to take photos is skilled with a camera and knows to look out for the critical moments.