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The Average Cost Of A Wedding Photographer In The UK

Updated: Mar 13

Ah, the big day! The wedding bells are ringing, and the excitement is palpable. And while there are so many details to consider, photography is one of the most important aspects of any wedding, without a doubt!


After all, these photos will be cherished for years to come. And will help you relive those magical moments repeatedly.


So, you might wonder, what is the average cost of a Wedding Photographer In The UK?


In this article, we will explore the average cost of a wedding photographer in the UK, including factors influencing the price. And how to find the perfect photographer to capture your special day.


So, let’s begin!



Bride and groom portrait
From an amazing day in Rome

What Is The Normal Budget For A Wedding Photographer?


The cost of a wedding photographer can vary greatly depending on factors such as the photographer's experience, location, and length of coverage.


Firstly, according to Bridebook's recent survey in January 2022, the average spend for a wedding photographer in the UK was around £1290. This is a great starting point to keep in mind when you're planning your wedding budget.


But wait, there's more! If you're planning to tie the knot in the bustling city of London, be prepared to fork out a little more cash as it was found to be the most expensive region for wedding photography, with an average cost of £1487.


However, don't worry if you're in the West Midlands, because it was actually found to be the cheapest region for wedding photography, with an average cost of £1077.


Now, let's dive into Hitched's survey from 2021, which revealed that the average cost for a wedding photographer was £1200. This figure falls a little below Bridebook's average price, but it's still a good benchmark to keep in mind.


It's essential to research and compare several photographers' pricing and packages before deciding.



Bride and Groom Confetti moment
From an amazing wedding in the York House - Twickenham


Factors Influencing The Budget

The budget of photography can be influenced by various factors, including:


  • The Experience - Firstly, the photographer's experience plays a significant role in determining their fee. Photographers with several years of experience and an impressive portfolio will likely charge more for their services.


  • Length of the Photography Session - Photographers may charge more if they are required to stay for longer periods or if they need to travel to multiple locations throughout the day. It's important to discuss the timeline of your wedding day with your photographer to ensure that you're both on the same page.


  • The Size of Your Wedding - If you're having a small wedding, you can probably get away with hiring a single photographer to capture all the important moments. But if you're having a large wedding and want to document every moment. It's best to hire multiple photographers who can work together to tell your story from different perspectives


  • Location - The more remote or exotic the location, the more expensive it will be to get there and even more costly to shoot at.



Asian weddings
Love those colours

What is a Reasonable Price for a Wedding Photographer UK?


The cost of a wedding photographer in the UK will depend on your specific needs and budget. The average cost of a wedding photographer in the UK is around £1,150 for a basic package to upwards of £3,000 for a premium package.


It's important to shop around and compare different packages to find the one that works best for you.


And remember, your wedding photos will be with you for a lifetime, so it's worth investing in a photographer who will capture your special day in the best way possible.



 


Are 7 Hours Enough for a Wedding Photographer?


Well, it totally depends on the specific requirements and expectations of you (the wedding couple). Seven hours can be enough for a wedding photographer to capture the most precious wedding moments, such as a ceremony, reception, and formal portraits.


However, seven hours may not be enough if the couple wants the photographer to cover additional events, such as the pre-wedding preparations or an after-party.


Additionally, the size and complexity of the wedding can also affect whether seven hours is enough for a wedding photographer. A small, intimate wedding may require less time than a large, elaborate wedding with many guests and multiple locations.


Average Timings of a Photographer

Let’s look at the average timings of a wedding photographer's day. On average, a photographer will spend about 8 hours at a wedding. This package is usually enough time for an average-sized wedding with about 100-150 guests.


But before you go ahead and book your photographer, let's dive a little deeper into what happens during those 8 hours.


The photographer will typically arrive a few hours before the ceremony to capture all the little details, like the bride getting ready, the groom putting on his tie, and the floral arrangements. This is an excellent opportunity for the photographer to get to know the wedding party and build a rapport with them.


Once the ceremony starts, the photographer will be there to capture all the special moments - the walk down the aisle, the vows, the kiss, and the newlywed couple walking back up the aisle. After the ceremony, there will be a group photo session with the family, friends, and newlyweds.


The reception is where things start to get really exciting. The photographer will capture the first dance, the speeches, the cake-cutting, and all the fun moments on the dance floor.


All in all, an 8-hour package is usually enough time for a photographer to capture all the important moments of your wedding day.



A bride and groom portrait in front of St Paul's cathedral in London
St Paul's Cathedral

Is a Photographer Worth it for a Wedding?

Yes, a photographer is definitely worth it for a wedding! Your wedding day is one of the most important and memorable days of your life. Having a professional photographer there to capture those special moments and create lasting memories is priceless.


A skilled wedding photographer has the experience and expertise to capture not only the traditional posed shots but also the candid, spontaneous moments that truly capture the spirit and emotion of the day.


They know how to frame shots, use lighting to their advantage, and create stunning images that stand the test of time.


Hiring a Budget-Friendly Photographer

Hiring a budget-friendly photographer can be a great way to capture your special moments without breaking the bank. The most crucial step is to research and find photographers in your area offering competitive pricing.


Look for portfolios of their previous work to get an idea of their style and the quality of their work. In addition, you can also ask for recommendations from friends or family who have hired a photographer in the past.

 

The Takeaway

It's clear that the average cost of a wedding photographer in the UK is something to consider when planning a wedding.


While it's easy to get caught up in the grandeur of your special day, it's important to remember that you're also paying for someone who will help you preserve those memories forever.


With this guide and some careful planning, I hope you'll find yourself with a memorable experience that costs less than you might have thought!


Thank you for reading...



Bride and groom candid portrait
Wedding in Rome


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