How much should a wedding photographer cost?

Good question. There are many wedding photographers out there and rates range anywhere from $500-to $10,000-.  How do you decide what to pay your photographer?  A  photographer is like an artist. The photographer documents your wedding day as he/she sees it, through his/her  lens and the outcome of one photographer compared to another shooting the same exact wedding can be very different.

That is why you should really do your research and find out what different types of photographers there are in your area. Go online and view their portfolio. See if the type of work they do is to your taste and imagine if you would want them as your wedding photography on your wedding day. Also, find out exactly what they offer. Ask yourself following questions…Do I pay them per hour? Are the digital files and copyright release included? How much does it cost per print if I have to print through their lab? Be careful of  the fine print.  Meet with the photographer to see if he/she is someone you would like to work with. Read the contract carefully to make sure you understand the terms and conditions.

In off season its ok to ask if they can give you a break or add something to the package. Most photographers don’t mind giving you an extra print or two. Do not try to bargain to much. Remember the photographer spends a lot of time not only working at the wedding but also on post production.

A  good idea is doing your engagement portraits with a photographer that you might want to have for your wedding. That way you have already worked with him/her and feel more comfortable in front of the camera on your wedding day.