When you’re first looking into Orlando wedding photography, you no doubt want to know about costs. It’s the primary question on the minds of many couples already experiencing sticker shock at the price of venues and caterers, flowers and dresses. And that’s okay … it’s smart to get the budgeting out of the way upfront so you can focus on the fun. Here are the main considerations when it comes to hiring a good photography team for your Central Florida wedding.
Average Wedding Photography Prices
The cost of a wedding photography package can vary hugely based on factors we will discuss below. However, the average cost for a photographer in America is somewhere between $3,000 and $5,000. When you’re doing your initial budgeting document, plan on this range. If you really need to get that number down, it will mean sacrificing somewhere. Let’s take a look.
Experience Matters
A lot goes into wedding photography. Taking good pictures requires more than simply pointing and clicking. Even critical elements such as composition and lighting aren’t the whole story. Your photographer must also understand timing, organization and communication. The longer they work, the better they become at these elements, which is why prices range based on experience.
Typically, costs will start at $1,000 or so for an inexperienced photographer. They can up to $10,000 or even $15,000 for someone who is highly sought-after. Ideally, you’ll choose someone in the middle.
You Pay More for Full-Time Professionals
Additionally, people who do this full-time will charge more than those who are simply earning some side-hustle money. If you want to hire a friend or a novice, that’s fine, but it may mean sacrificing the quality of photos or a well-organized timeline. Even a slightly unprofessional photographer can still produce some great shots, but if you want to capture every moment well this likely isn’t the place to scrimp.
Prices Vary with Cost of Living
If you’re having your wedding out on a family member’s country property, you may be able to find an area photographer who will charge according to local prices. However, if you choose an Orlando wedding photographer, then they will cost more. This is true whether they’re shooting photos in the city or traveling to an event. Speaking of travel …
Travel Costs Stack Up
If your Central Florida wedding photographer will have to drive to get to your wedding, you can expect to pay a few hundred or even a few thousand dollars more, depending on how long it will take them to get there. If you love the artist, that can be worth it. If, however, you want to save money, then choose someone nearby.
Style Matters
That indefinable je ne sais quoi you feel when looking at truly gorgeous photos? That comes from somewhere. It’s an ineffable combination of experience, natural skill and a finely honed aesthetic, and it’s not always replaceable. If you truly love what someone does, it’s worth skimping on another area of your wedding and saving up for the photographer who can capture your big day best. Here are a few ideas for trimming the fat:
Hold your ceremony and reception in the same place.
Have only one meat and one vegetarian choice at dinner.
Make bouquets for the table yourself, and spend only on the big floral arrangements.
… et cetera. While this might take some doing, all the work you put into saving money will be reflected back from your album for years to come.
Have questions about wedding photography in Orlando or surrounding areas? Get in touch today!
New here? My name is Zac Wolf. I’m a New England and Orlando wedding photographer capturing your love through joyful, vibrant, and honest wedding, elopement, and engagement photography. I use my blog to share tons of vibrant engagement, elopement, and wedding photo ideas for inspiration, along with honest tips for wedding planning coming from a wedding photographer with over a decade of experience in the wonderful world of weddings. It also gives you a chance to see what it would be like to work with me as your wedding photographer. I would love to work with you one day! Contact me here.
About Zac Wolf Photography: New England and Orlando Wedding Photographer
Hi, I’m Zac, a New England and Orlando wedding photographer capturing your love through joyful, vibrant, and honest wedding photography. I make magic with your photos––regardless of the venue, the weather, or how you feel in front of the camera––I know how to make your photos look how you feel.
With me as your wedding photographer, you can enjoy the present moment of your special day and count on me to capture everything you’ll want to remember in the years to come. My 10+ years of experience as an engagement, elopement, and wedding photographer in Central Florida, New England, and across the country means I know how to make the process go as smoothly and easily as possible for you.
I can’t wait to capture your love. Let’s work together.