Everything To Know About Wedding Photography Packages

Weddings remain one of the costliest milestones in a person’s life. According to a government-backed survey, the average Australian wedding costs AUD$36,000, quite a hefty price for a one-day event.

Of these costs, hiring a photographer is one of the aspects that the bride and groom are willing to spend more on, which is unsurprising since wedding photos and videos can last a lifetime. Most couples hire professional photographers, like SvenStudios and similar companies, to document their big day.

But finding a wedding photographer with the best packages can be daunting. Understanding the pricing considerations is key to spotting a great offer. Learn more about wedding photography packages below.

How much do wedding photography packages cost?

A 2021 Statista survey discovered that the national median cost of hiring a wedding photographer was AUD$2,990. State-wise, New South Wales had the priciest option at AUD$3,650, while Tasmania had the most affordable rates at AUD$1,900.

Factors that affect the cost of wedding photography packages

Many factors affect the cost of wedding photography packages. Requesting adjustments to the terms attached to each element helps adjust the final price.

• Engagement duration

Service providers often charge by the hour, so their time on wedding coverage will impact the package price. Longer times mean more expensive fees.

So, how long should you book a wedding photographer?

It seems that six hours is the minimum industry standard, so long as the ceremony and reception are in the same location. The wisest approach would be to book them for around ten hours, if possible.

Wedding photographers need at least two hours to get ready and another few hours to edit the photos and videos. So, longer times are required to capture pre- and post-ceremonies and everything in between.

• The wedding photographer’s skills and experience

Some wedding photographers charge by the hour. Their rates vary wildly according to their skills, expertise, reputation, and location. According to an Airtasker survey, Brisbane has the most affordable hourly price at AUD$70, while the cap for all major cities is fixed at AUD$500.

• Number of photographers

If you want more comprehensive and efficient coverage for your special day, it’s best to have at least two photographers. Two photographers will ensure that every precious moment is captured, although it will bump the price.

• Service inclusions

Service inclusions vary from one provider to another. At the minimum, you’ll get pre- and post-wedding photos, a wedding photo album, and one canvas print to hang on your wall. Any add-ons will increase the price.

• Equipment

While skills and expertise are crucial in getting breathtaking wedding photos, state-of-the-art equipment and gear can help too. If the photographer you choose uses high-end equipment, they might charge a higher price.

• Location

Hiring out-of-town photographers will also increase your costs exponentially, as you’re expected to pay for their travel, accommodation, and other associated costs.

What does a wedding photography package typically include?

There are no strict industry rules regarding wedding photography package costs and inclusions. Hence, you might find varying options from one provider to another. For instance, some may have fixed package inclusions, while others allow clients the flexibility to customise their requirements.

A basic wedding photography package includes the following:

• Wedding ceremony photos
• Wedding reception coverage
• A wedding slideshow
• Image editing and touchups

Additional services could include the above products and services, plus:

• Prenup and rehearsal shoots
• A wedding photo album
• Canvas print
• Digital prints on a USB drive
• Online access to your wedding photo and video galleries

Determining what you want to be documented or captured on the big day is crucial in choosing the type of package you want.

Crucial elements to look for in a wedding photography package

Besides the coverage hours, staffing, and equipment requirements, there are other things to consider when picking the best package. Before signing the contract, ensure that you fully understand the following:

• The number of print and digital photos: Ideally, you should have all the terms in writing to avoid surprises.
• Accessing the images and videos: Ensure that a print release is stipulated in the contract. This statement gives you the right to use your wedding images for personal purposes like printing, downloading, and sharing with relatives. In most cases, the photographer will have the full copyright for your pictures and can use them for commercial purposes.
• Payment arrangements: Find out the downpayment fees and due date for full payment, including the payment modalities accepted.

Most importantly, check the terms for cancellation, refund, and contingency measures if things go wrong or the deal goes south.

How to hire a good wedding photographer

The right equipment, photographer’s skills, and experience are the driving forces in getting perfect wedding photos. Hiring one with professional memberships and published work in magazines and platforms outside their website is ideal.

Don’t forget to check their portfolio and read their clients’ reviews. More importantly, choose the one you’re comfortable working with. Set aside some time for a quick chat to determine if your personalities click.

Final thoughts

Knowing the cost factors for a wedding photography package is crucial to understand how you can set your budget well without regrets. The points discussed in this article should help you optimise your spending.

But as many couples would agree, costs shouldn’t be your top and only priority. High prices don’t mean high quality. Follow the tips above to ensure your goals align with the photographer’s style, giving you a stress-free and memorable experience.