Wedding Photographer Pricing in the UK: What You Need to Know
Hello, I’m Simon John, a professional wedding photographer with over 40 years of experience, and I’ve had the privilege of capturing more than 2,000 weddings across the UK.
If you’re planning your big day, you’re probably wondering about wedding photographer pricing and how to fit professional wedding photography into your wedding budget. The average cost and average price of wedding photography in the UK can vary, but knowing these figures helps couples set realistic expectations and compare options effectively. Let’s break down what you can expect, what goes into the cost, and how to choose the perfect wedding photographer for your love story.
Why Wedding Photography Matters
Your wedding day is one of the most special moments of your life. Professional wedding photographers don’t just take photos; we capture the emotions, the laughter, the tears, and all the cherished memories you’ll want to relive for years to come. I believe it’s worth paying for an experienced wedding photographer who can deliver high quality images that truly tell the story of your day.
A brief introduction to the wedding photography industry and why pricing varies in the UK.
The wedding photography industry in the UK is as diverse and dynamic as the weddings themselves. With countless wedding photographers offering their unique styles and services, couples have a wealth of options to choose from when it comes to capturing their special moments. Wedding photography prices can vary wildly across the country, influenced by factors such as the photographer’s experience, the location of your wedding, and the level of service you’re looking for. For example, photography prices in major cities or popular regions like the South East often reflect higher demand and limited availability. The cost of a wedding photographer can range from affordable options for smaller, intimate weddings to luxury packages for grand celebrations. With so many talented photographers in the UK, it’s important to do your research, compare photography prices, and find the best wedding photographer who fits both your vision and your wedding budget. Ultimately, investing in professional wedding photography ensures that the story of your day wedding is told beautifully, preserving those once-in-a-lifetime memories.
What is Wedding Photography?
Wedding photography is all about capturing the magic, emotion, and beauty of your wedding day. A professional wedding photographer uses their creative eye and technical skill to document every meaningful moment, from the excitement of getting ready to the joy of the first dance. The goal is to create high quality images that reflect the unique atmosphere and love shared on your special day. Thanks to advances in digital technology, couples now have access to a wide range of photography styles and options, making it easier than ever to invest in professional wedding photography that suits their personalities and preferences. Whether you prefer classic portraits or candid, documentary-style shots, your wedding photographs will become cherished memories that you’ll treasure for years to come.
Understanding the role and significance of wedding photography in capturing your big day.
A wedding photographer plays a vital role in ensuring your wedding day is remembered exactly as it felt. More than just a person behind the camera, a professional wedding photographer is a storyteller who captures the laughter, tears, and joy that make your day unique. From a romantic pre wedding shoot to the energy of the first dance, their job is to document every emotion and detail, creating a visual narrative you’ll revisit for a lifetime. With their experience and artistic vision, professional wedding photographers know how to anticipate special moments and deliver high quality images that truly reflect the spirit of your celebration. Choosing the right photographer means entrusting someone to preserve your most precious memories, so you can relive your wedding day again and again.
Wedding Photographer Pricing: What’s Included?
In the UK, wedding photography costs can vary widely depending on experience, coverage, and what’s included in the package. For a full day with a professional photographer, you can expect wedding photography prices to range from £1,000 to £2,000. This typically covers everything from bridal preparations to the first dance, ensuring no special moment is missed.
Here’s what most wedding photographers offer in their packages:
Full day coverage (often 8–10 hours shooting the entire day; some premium or comprehensive packages offer up to ten hours of photography)
A minimum number of edited images (usually 300+)
Online gallery for viewing, sharing, and downloading your wedding photographs
High resolution, watermark-free images
Options for a photo album or luxury leather bound album
Pre-wedding or engagement shoot to help you get comfortable in front of the camera
Backup equipment and sometimes a second photographer for extra coverage
A basic package usually includes minimal coverage, such as a set number of hours and digital images delivered via USB or online gallery, making it ideal for couples on a tighter budget who still want professional photos. In contrast, a comprehensive package provides a wide range of services and extensive coverage, offering couples premium options with added value and features.
My prices vary, depending on your needs. Please get in touch for a free personalised consulation.
A breakdown of typical inclusions in wedding photography pricing.
When you book a professional wedding photographer, you’re not just paying for someone to take photos on the day—you’re investing in a comprehensive service designed to capture your wedding from start to finish. Most wedding photography packages include a pre-wedding consultation to discuss your plans and preferences, full-day coverage to ensure no moment is missed, and a carefully curated selection of edited images.
You’ll often receive a personalized online gallery, making it easy to view and share your wedding photographs with friends and family. Many professional wedding photographers also offer a beautifully crafted photo album or wedding book as part of their package, so you have a tangible keepsake of your day. Extras like a second photographer, an engagement shoot, or even wedding videography can be added for more complete coverage. Typically, you can expect 8-10 hours of coverage, hundreds of edited images, and a mix of digital and print products, all designed to help you relive your day wedding for years to come.
Wedding Photography Packages: Tailored for You
I offer a range of wedding photography packages to suit different tastes and budgets. Most photographers offer a variety of packages to cater to different preferences and budgets, ensuring you can find the right fit for your needs. Whether you want a classic approach or something more modern, I can create a bespoke package for your wedding day. Many photographers, myself included, also offer pre wedding shoots and engagement sessions, which are a great way to capture beautiful photos before the big day and get used to being in front of the camera.
Some couples opt for multiple photographers to ensure every angle is covered, while others are happy with one photographer. The choice depends on your wedding venue, the size of your guest list, and how much coverage you want.
Overview of standard and customisable packages available.
Every couple’s wedding is unique, and most professional wedding photographers understand the importance of offering flexible packages to suit different needs and budgets. Standard packages often include essential coverage, such as a set number of hours, a specific number of edited images, and access to an online gallery. For those wanting more, premium packages might feature full-day coverage, a larger selection of edited images, and a luxurious photo album—sometimes even a leather bound album for that extra touch of elegance.
Many photographers offer bespoke packages, allowing you to tailor the services to your exact requirements, whether that means adding a second photographer, including an engagement shoot, or extending coverage into the evening. With so many options available, it’s worth exploring what different photographers offer to find the best wedding photographer and package for your celebration. No matter the size or style of your wedding, a professional wedding photographer can help you create a collection of beautiful photos that reflect your love story and provide cherished memories for a lifetime.
What Affects Wedding Photography Prices?
Several factors influence wedding photography costs:
Experience and reputation: An experienced photographer or luxury wedding photographer will often charge more, but you’re paying for peace of mind and stunning results. Experienced wedding photographers typically command higher fees due to their extensive industry knowledge, reliability, and ability to capture perfect moments. Hiring a full time wedding photographer adds value, as their dedication and skill ensure a higher quality of service. Full time wedding photographers generally charge more than part-time or hobbyist photographers, reflecting their experience and commitment. New photographers may offer lower rates as they build their portfolios, but their level of experience may vary.
Coverage time: The number of hours shooting, from a few hours to the entire day.
Number of photographers: Packages with two photographers or multiple photographers cost more but provide more comprehensive coverage.
Extras: Albums, prints, engagement shoots, and videography can add to the cost.
Travel and location: Some photographers charge extra for travel, especially if your wedding venue is outside their usual area. Travel expenses can be a significant additional cost when photographers need to travel beyond their standard locations.
Why the Cost is Worth It
You might hear horror stories about couples who went with an inexperienced photographer to save money, only to be disappointed with their wedding photos. Professional wedding photography is a full time job, requiring backup equipment, multiple lenses, and the ability to work seamlessly with other wedding suppliers. When you invest in a good photographer, you’re ensuring your special moments are captured beautifully and safely. Choosing a great photographer gives you peace of mind, knowing that quality will not be compromised on your big day.
A professional photographer is not just an artist, but also a key wedding supplier who plays a significant role in the success of your wedding day.
Average UK Wedding Photographer Prices
| Package Type | Coverage | Photographers | Price Range | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Day (1 Photographer) | 8–10 hours | 1 | £1,000–£1,500 | All-day coverage, edited images, online gallery |
| Full Day (2 Photographers) | 8–10 hours | 2 | £1,500–£2,000 | Extra coverage, more candid moments |
| Half Day | 4–5 hours | 1 | £600–£1,000 | Ceremony to speeches, fewer images |
| Engagement Shoot | 1–2 hours | 1 | £300–£400 | Pre-wedding photos, online gallery |
| Photo Album | – | – | £300–£500 | Leather bound or luxury wedding album |
These are average prices; the average price for wedding photography packages can vary depending on location, package type, and photographer experience. Luxury wedding photographers or those in high-demand areas like the South East may charge more.
How to Choose the Best Wedding Photographer for You
Look for experience: An experienced photographer knows how to handle any situation and deliver high quality images.
Check portfolios: Look at real weddings they’ve shot to see if their style matches your vision.
Meet in person: Chemistry matters! I always offer unlimited meetings before your wedding to ensure we’re a great fit.
Ask about backup equipment and editing: You want someone prepared for anything.
Clarify what’s included: Make sure you understand the package, hours, number of photographers, and delivery of your images.
For more tips and advice on choosing the right wedding photographer, check out our detailed blog post.
Final Thoughts
Wedding photography is one of the most important investments you’ll make for your wedding day. When you choose a professional photographer, you’re ensuring your wedding photos will be beautiful, timeless, and a joy to look back on for years to come. If you’d like to discuss your wedding photography needs or get a rough idea of the best package for your wedding, please get in touch. I’d be honoured to help tell your love story and deliver high quality images you’ll cherish forever.
