How much to invest in OC wedding photography
Average Cost of a wedding photographer
The Average Cost for Wedding Photography
With so many options at all different price ranges, it can be tough to get a good idea on the average cost of a wedding photographer. On top of that, blogs will tell you to spend either a specific amount, or even a certain percentage.
We, on the other hand, have advice that is a little more open-ended and based on making sure you get the quality you’ll be happy with.
Once you read this post about “how much do wedding photographers cost”, you’ll be equipped with the following knowledge:
- Average wedding photographer cost
- The 10% myth
- What are the factors that influence cost, and which ones are most important to you?
- Is the wedding photography market overpriced?
- A more in-depth look at wedding photography prices in the Orange County area.
Please read on as this post will help you have a full understanding of wedding photographer cost!
Some of us like things to be natural and clean (because we want to avoid trends and photograph how things really are) while others prefer something that is more “original” because it is different and creates a sense of something beyond reality. Think “bright and airy” vs “dark and moody” for example.
Style
Expertise and experience often go hand in hand, a more “experienced” photographer who has photographed weddings for 10+ years will have not only the technical skills and knowledge required but also have tested interpersonal skills the ability to manage different personalities and delicate family situations.
Expertise
If you’re in a high cost of living area, like Orange County, you can expect to pay around $6,000 for a talented photographer. In contrast, a similar photographer in a more affordable place, like Riverside, might start at $3,000. The bigger the city and the higher the average income, the steeper the prices tend to be.
Location
the 10% Myth and why you should Focus on the photography you’d want years down the road
A while back, a common guideline emerged suggesting couples allocate about 10-15% of their wedding budget for photography. While that advice isn’t entirely off-base, the truth is, if capturing those precious moments is incredibly important to you, why limit yourself to just 10%?
One approach is to identify your priorities and the photographers you’re drawn to and craft your budget around them. Make a list of your top priorities, research their pricing, and total it all up.
If you find yourself exceeding your budget, consider trimming costs from the lower priority items instead of compromising on the moments you value the most. This way, you ensure that you’re investing in what truly matters to you!
how much you should budget for a wedding photographer Is a crucial decision because once the flowers have wilted and the cake is gone, your photos will be the only thing that remains for years to come!
How Much Do Wedding Photographers Cost
For Orange County, most photographers are grouped in the following starting price ranges:
-$0-500 (Just starting, may have not shot a wedding, not considered professional)
-$500-1200 (May have shot some weddings, may not have a high demand and/or may not have a style that demands a higher price tag)
-$1000-2000 (Probably photographs weddings fairly regularly, may not have a high demand due to style, may not be considered full-time)
-$2000-3000 (Probably has a bit higher demand for style, probably shoots a few less weddings while focusing on providing each client more support, beginning to get into the “professional” category)
-$4000+ (typically considered full-time professionals, have the demand based on style, expertise, etc.)
-$5000-$6000 and beyond starting prices (Typically more established, refined style, and luxury offerings)
Consider Your Priorities
First things first: think about what’s most important to you. If capturing those incredible moments is high on your list, investing in a skilled photographer makes sense. Remember, this is a one-time event, and the memories captured will last a lifetime.
Average Costs
So, what’s the ballpark figure? Wedding photography prices can vary widely based on experience, location, and what’s included in the package. Generally, you might find yourself looking at anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 or more. If you’re in a bustling area like Orange County, expect to lean toward the higher end of that spectrum.
What Affects Pricing?
- Experience: More experienced photographers often charge more due to their skill and portfolio.
- Packages: Some offer full-day coverage, while others might provide just a few hours. Determine what fits your needs.
- Additional Services: Albums, prints, and engagement shoots can increase the overall cost.
Finding Your Perfect Match
Don’t forget to look beyond just the price tag. The right photographer should resonate with your style and vibe. Set up meetings to discuss your vision and see if you connect. Remember, it’s about capturing your love story in a way that feels authentic to you.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, your wedding photos are an investment. Set a budget that feels comfortable for you, and don’t hesitate to splurge a little for quality. After all, these images will be your forever keepsakes, telling the story of your wedding day.
Interested in having Love is Magic Photograph your wedding day, fill out the form below.
If you are reading this the contact box didn't APPEAR, please reload the page and select the country.
Contact
Whether you have questions or you're ready to book, fill out the contact form to see if I have your date available. If you do not receive a response in 24 hours, check your spam folder.
As your wedding photographer, I'll spend more time with you than any other vendor so it's important that we're a good fit.
NEWSLETTER
California 951-241-5759
info@loveismagic.co