Shopping for Wedding Photography

Photography is one of the most important (and can be the most expensive) aspect of your wedding planning. The reality is, long after the big day is over many of your memories will come from the photos, which you’ll also want to print, display and share with your friends and family!

Photographer Haley Shandro of Shandro Photo in Edmonton, Alberta recently wrote a blog post for the Professional Photographers of Canada giving tips on why and how you should budget for a wedding photographer. Here is what she said:

Do I need a professional?

My uncle can do it for me. These days anyone with a camera thinks that they are a photographer, but a professional has the experience, equipment, personality, and backup equipment to ensure that your photos are stunning and safeguarded.

How much is too much?

A few years ago, you could hire a great wedding photographer for $2,000-$3,000. These days, people are spending more on their photographer, and it’s not unusual to pay $6,000+ for an amazing professional photographer for full day coverage with an album. Why is it ‘so expensive’? There is a difference between amazing photography and poor photography. The talent of a true professional photographer can be the difference between ho-hum photos and stunning images of your most important day. Photography is one field where you do get what you pay for.

How much coverage do I need?

Gone are the days of stiff portraits after a traditional ceremony. Many brides now want documentary-style coverage of their wedding. However, not everyone wants photos of getting ready. Or, your budget might not allow for hiring a pro for the whole day. Rather than hiring a mediocre photographer for the whole day, consider spending a bit extra and hiring a professional for less time.

Do I get a disc of images?

To some brides a disc is important, to some it is not. If you are a bride who values having a digital archive of your photos and the ability to print what you want, check to see if the disc is included, or if there is an extra charge. If the initial package price is low but there are fees after the fact, this may affect how a photographer will fit into your budget. Also, understand that there is a difference between a disc of high-resolution files that you can print to a large size, or downsized files (or low resolution) that can only be used for the web or small prints.

Do I need a wedding album?

You may have intentions of printing off wedding photos for your friends and family, or putting together your own wedding album. However, many brides find that after the wedding life gets busy, priorities shift, and the disc of wedding images gets put on the shelf. Also, technologies change and that disc will eventually be obsolete or may deteriorate. Files on a disk now may not be able to be opened in 15 years. Anyone still using 5 1/2" floppies? A good quality album will safeguard your memories for years. You should ensure your budget has enough room for a professional wedding album.

Can I personalize my wedding with photography?

You can combine other items from your budget, such as a guest book, thank you cards, and even invitations into your photography budget. Ask your photographer to do custom extras with your engagement and wedding photos.

Shouldn’t I get a discount for getting married on a Sunday or in the winter?

A photographer works just as hard on a Saturday in the summer as on a Sunday in December. You shouldn’t necessarily expect a discount if you’re not getting married on a Saturday.

Thank you Haley for writing those tips. Next post we'll help you choose the right photographer for your day.

Cheers,