It finally happened. They got down on one knee and asked you to be their forever. It truly is one of the best moments of your life. Finally, you can plan the wedding of your dreams. But then reality sets in; weddings can have quite the price tag...
Why do wedding photographers charge so much?
Regardless of how anything is priced, there will always be someone cheaper and someone more expensive. What's important is to understand what you're paying for. For example, why does it cost more to go to an award-winning 5-star restaurant than it does to your local fast food takeaway?
Reasons wedding photography is expensive:
Experience
Equipment
How long they are there on the day
The editing process
Do they have a second shooter
How many images you’ll be supplied
Pre-wedding photoshoots
And these are only a few. Let’s look at a couple in further detail.
Experience
Everyone has to start somewhere, and that generally reflects in their prices. If they are cheaper, it will usually mean that they are just starting - so ask the question, they’ll have nothing to hide.
My first Wedding I shot when I was 17 (during my A-levels!!) and so I have 10 number of years of experience with dozens of weddings under my belt. But along with worked expertise, I also regularly attend workshops with photographers who have been in the industry for decades. This allows me to craft my skills and creativity.
Photography Equipment
One of the primary reasons why wedding photography is so expensive is the initial investment that wedding photographers like myself make. Our equipment can easily cost thousands. It usually comprises of a camera body, plus a backup body (no one wants a camera going kaput in the middle of a shoot), different lenses to achieve different types of shots. Then there’s additional batteries, sd cards, a camera strap, editing software, a portable hard drive. I could keep going, but I won’t bore you.
How long is a photographer there on the day?
This is ultimately between you and your photographer and the package that they offer. I love to capture the full day, from the bridesmaids helping the bride get ready in the morning, to the first dance as a married couple surrounded by your loved ones. This is usually about 10 hours.
How Many Photos Should a Wedding Photographer Give Me?
Depends on your photographer, the events that unfold during the day, and how long your wedding day is! If your photographer doesn't edit the images after, or slaps a quick filter on them, you may be paying less than for someone that spends time editing each photo, removing acne and colour adjusting! Time is money like they say. The rough number is normally between 400-800 photos, and that's a lot of editing time!
Should We Take Engagement Pics?
Some photographers, like me, like to include the engagement session with their package. This is a great opportunity to get some alone photos with your partner, practice for the big day, and get to know your photographer to calm any nerves on your wedding day. This is a complete experience within itself, and something I love to do! This is your biggest opportunity to become comfortable in front of the camera.
Now, considering these factors, do you still believe it’s “so expensive”?. Just think about capturing memories and reminiscing about them. That’s priceless. My goal is to help you get something that you can cherish for the rest of your life. After all, it’s the most special day of your life.
'Why is wedding photography so expensive’ Is one of the most searched phrases on google around weddings. And I get it, I do. So I thought I’d let you all into the reality of a photographer’s business and why you shouldn’t look at it as an expense but rather an investment. Because let’s face it, you get the venue for a day, the dress is worn once (unless you’re like one of my previous brides who loves wearing it every year on her anniversary - and why not!). Still, the photographs are the one thing that you will look back on time and time again throughout your life, to relive your magical day. They genuinely are heirlooms.
If you would like to find out about my pricing, or just get in touch, simply fill in this form here: CONTACT ME
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Gabriela's Photography and Film is a Sheffield based Wedding Photographer and Wedding Videographer. Specialist in candid portraits and natural photos. Photographer Brochure available upon request.