Wedding Photography Prices: How Much Does a Wedding Photographer Cost?
Wedding Photography Prices can vary depending on your location, photographer, and package, but understanding what you get for your money makes all the difference when planning your perfect day.
Hiring a wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your day. Long after the cake is cut and the flowers have wilted, your wedding photographs are what remain. So how much should you expect to pay, and what does that price include?
Whether you're planning a grand celebration or something more intimate, this guide will break down the real costs of wedding photography, explain what affects the price, and help you know what to look for when hiring a photographer.
Wedding Photography Prices: How Much Will a Wedding Photographer Cost?
On average, couples in the UK spend between £1,500 and £1,800 on wedding photography. That figure can go up or down depending on location, season, hours of coverage, and the experience level of your photographer.
At Alexander Thomas Photography, prices start at £900 for a half-day (5 hours) and £1,700 for a full-day (10 hours). I include a sneak peek of 20 images within 48 hours and deliver an online gallery of around 500–600 fully edited images.
How Much Does Wedding Photography Cost?
Photography is a one-time investment with lifelong value. You're not just paying for someone to show up and click a shutter. You’re paying for planning, time on the day, editing, and expertise. A typical price covers everything from the initial consultation right through to final delivery, which can take up to eight weeks.
The best way to think about the cost is in relation to how important your photos are to you. If you want timeless, high-quality images from someone who knows how to handle pressure and stay calm no matter what, then you should be budgeting accordingly.
What Impacts the Cost of a Wedding Photographer?
Location
Photographers based in major cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh often charge slightly more due to the demand. That said, rates are not strictly based on geography. Travel costs may apply if your wedding is further afield, or international, but I always aim to keep these fair and transparent.
Time of Year
Summer weekends are in high demand. Booking a Saturday between May and September will usually cost more than a midweek wedding in winter. I personally charge the same price year-round, but others may offer off-season or weekday discounts.
Additional Equipment
Some photographers will charge extra for drone footage or specialist equipment. I include optional drone coverage using a Mavic 3 Pro Cine, which delivers exceptional quality thanks to its Hasselblad lenses and flexible focal lengths. If your venue allows drones, it’s an excellent way to get standout images.
Multiple Photographers
Need coverage of both of you getting ready at the same time? Want wider coverage of the ceremony and reception? A second photographer can be added to your package. This is especially useful for larger weddings or for couples who want more candid moments captured.
Number of Hours Shooting
A 5-hour package might cover prep through to the speeches. A full-day package will usually take you from morning prep through to your first dance. I offer both, depending on what suits your timeline and how much of the day you want documented.
Wedding Photography Packages & Extras
Most photographers offer tiered packages or allow you to build a custom one. Extras can include engagement shoots, drone coverage, additional hours, or photo albums.
My packages always include a consultation call, sneak peeks, and a fully edited gallery. I also offer engagement shoots on request, which are a great way to get comfortable in front of the camera before the big day.
Photo Copyright
You should always check that you’ll have full personal-use rights to your images. This means being able to share them online and print them for yourself. My clients receive high-resolution digital files with full personal usage rights.
Level of Experience
While I’ve shot two weddings to date, I bring years of experience running a high-pressure business with 20 staff. I’m calm, creative, and focused, with the ability to adapt quickly and think on my feet. I’m fully insured, and unless I’m six feet under, I’ll be there on your day and ready to deliver.
What Should Be Included in a Wedding Photography Package?
1. Planning & Consultation
Every couple receives a pre-wedding Zoom call or in-person meeting if you’re local. I’ll get to know what matters most to you and walk through the day’s timeline.
2. Editing & Packaging
Your photos are fully edited in a consistent style. I don’t do rushed jobs. I take care to make sure your final gallery reflects the atmosphere of the day with clean, timeless edits.
3. Travel & Exclusivity
Travel within Glasgow, Edinburgh, and surrounding areas is included. For destination weddings, travel and accommodation are factored into the package. I’ll always be clear on what’s included.
4. Expertise & Skill
My approach is candid, editorial, and unobtrusive. You’ll get 30 minutes of relaxed couple portraits, but for the rest of the day, I work in the background, capturing natural moments as they unfold.
Wedding Photography Price Lists & Packages in the UK
Up to £1,000
You’ll likely get 4–5 hours of coverage and a smaller gallery. Ideal for micro weddings or weekday ceremonies.
£1,000 to £1,500
Entry-level full-day coverage or premium half-day coverage. Some editing and basic extras included.
£1,500 - £2,000
This is where most experienced professionals sit. You can expect 8–10 hours of coverage, a refined gallery, and possibly extras like engagement sessions.
£2,000 - £2,500
Full-day with second shooter, high-quality editing, and potentially printed products.
£2,500+
Top-tier photographers with signature styles, full service including albums, engagement shoots, and potentially short films or photobooths.
How Much Should a Photographer Charge for a Wedding? Revealed
Pricier often means better quality
Photographers who invest in premium gear, editing software, and training are more likely to deliver polished, consistent results.
Make sure they're insured
Always ask for proof of insurance. It protects everyone and shows professionalism.
Experience costs money
Experienced photographers are calm under pressure, handle unpredictable moments with ease, and know how to tell your story properly. You’re paying for more than just a camera.
35 Key Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before Booking?
The Basics
Tell us about yourself!
Do you have our date available?
How many weddings do you shoot per year?
Can I see some full wedding albums?
Have you worked at our venue before? Will you visit beforehand?
What information do you need from us?
Do you have insurance?
Photography Style
How would you describe your style?
Where can I read testimonials?
Can I give a list of specific shots?
On the Day
What time will you arrive?
Would you like food or drink?
Do we need to cover travel costs?
Will you be the lead photographer?
What time will you stay until?
Are guests allowed to take photos?
What happens if you can't make it?
How do you approach couple portraits?
Packages & Payment
What’s included in your packages?
Do you offer engagement shoots?
What is the deposit and when is it due?
Can we pay extra to extend the day?
How much is a second shooter?
How will we receive our photos?
Can we share the photos online?
Do you offer prints or albums?
Is retouching included?
Can we customise a package?
How long will it take to receive photos?
When is the final balance due?
Questions to Ask a Destination Wedding Photographer
Have you shot in our chosen country or venue before?
Who books travel and accommodation?
Are there any hidden travel costs?
What’s the plan if travel is delayed?
Can you stay longer if needed?
Questions to Ask as a Wedding Photographer
What do you want your photos to feel like?
Do you have your venue booked?
How many guests are you expecting?
Any family dynamics we should know about?
Are you comfortable posing, or do you prefer candid?
Wedding Photos: Photo Checklist
Pre-Ceremony / Getting Ready
Bride and groom prep, accessories, dress, suit, invites
Portraits
Solo portraits, wedding party, first look
Ceremony
Ceremony décor, vows, kiss, reactions
Details & Decor
Flowers, rings, signage, cake
The Reception
Speeches, tables, first dance, party atmosphere
Couple Moments
Golden hour portraits, candid laughs, hugs, quiet moments
Wedding Photo FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
How much are wedding photos?
Expect to pay between £900 and £2,000+ depending on coverage, experience, and extras.
How long do wedding photos take?
You’ll usually receive your gallery within 4–8 weeks.
How to pose for wedding photos?
Relax, trust your photographer, and focus on your partner. I’ll guide you naturally if needed.
Would you like me to take care of your big day? Please get in touch and we can book a date.
