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11 Smart Ways to Save Your Money on Wedding Photography

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11 Smart Ways to Save Your Money on Wedding Photography

Photography is an indispensable part of every wedding. What is another way to capture the memorable moments of a wedding performance? The pattern of wedding photography is seeing a monumental change. Previously it was limited to engagement day and wedding day only. 

 

Changing times have saved date photos, wedding trailers, and wedding photography and so on. Grooms and professional photographers are thinking of more ways to make a wedding memorable. Having a wedding photographer is a must; there are many ways you can keep wedding photography on your budget. 

 

 

We do not need experts to tell you that wedding photographs are important: they are one of the most special memories you will ever have. As your children see their children through them and after them, you both browse many times, remembering the best day of your life.

 

There is no substitute for having a photographer your whole day, however, if you are on a very tight budget, it is still possible to get an exceptional photographer while saving and sticking to the budget you worked on - or we're working for you with our super powerful free budget tool. 

 

Determining a budget for wedding photography can be very confusing and challenging. This is usually even more confusing when we look at the options in the middle section.

 

If your budget is low or you are at the high end of the budget, the options are usually clear. Mid segment is a place where you cannot decide whether you want to put budget or quality first.

You can avoid paying too much for photography if you follow these tips.


  1. Custom-Made is Good
  2. Always Negotiate
  3. Skip the Photographer Wedding Album
  4. Location
  5. Ask About Photographers in Training
  6. Select the Combined Photography and Videography Package
  7. Prefer Local Photographer
  8. Book Really Early
  9. Book Off-Season
  10. Start with Someone Within your Budget
  11. Ask About Referral Discounts 

 

  1. Custom-Made is Good

Instead of a set wedding package, see how much your wedding photography prices will change if you opt for line-item customization. Some expensive wedding packages may have services you don't really want, such as leather albums or physical proofs.

 

 

 

 

  1. Always Negotiate

 

Even if you meet with top photographers, this does not mean that they do not want to offer their customers the most competitive rates. If you book a day other than off-season or Saturday they are more likely to negotiate. 

Also, always mention who suggested you who might discount you. We suggest meeting with multiple photographers, so you can compare packages and costs.

With our chosen photographer, our engagement session, album and many prints are included in our package, not provided by each photographer we meet. Bottom line: you never know what you might get if you don't ask!

 

 

  1. Skip the Photographer Wedding Album

 

Having your wedding photographer have an album for you is great if you have a budget; it is not 100% necessary. Yes, they have a great eye and can choose the best photos… but you can do that too! 

There are so many great online wedding album companies, that you can save money if you go with one of them. And, if you know which wedding photos you like the most, you have complete control over the flow of the album and you can easily create copies for your family and friends too.

 

  1. Location

 

If you have a wedding outside, you will have to pay for your photographer’s transportation, board and accommodation. It may be more economical-prudent to look for a wedding photographer in the same geographical area or in the state where you are organizing your wedding.

 

  1. Ask About Photographers in Training

 

While this is not technically a way to save money, it is definitely a way to get a little more for your dollar. Most photographers have trained assistants, so by asking your photographer if you can bring one of them along, you can capture some more great moments. Its two photographers for one price!

 

  1. Select the Combined Photography and Videography Package

 

Managing your wedding photos and videos with a single studio will save you some money on both of these.

It is a good idea to look for a studio that offers both. The packages are more affordable and you will also benefit from the added convenience of dealing with just one team.

Many videographers also offer photography services and vice versa. When checking package deals, always compare them to the cost of personal services. In some cases, a package can prove expensive, so you should be prepared.

Also, make sure that the terms of the package agreement are adequate. You need to know exactly how many pictures you are going to get.

 

  1. Prefer Local Photographer

 

Most photo and video professionals place a portion of their fees on travel times, from places and in the middle, but, if asked, often grant discounts if you have your wedding and reception in one place or if your sites are close by each other.

It's always easier if you work with a professional who is still trying to establish their position, but you'll get what you pay for.

However, Photographers enthusiastically replace inexperience and a ton of creativity. As a result, the result is great and it doesn’t cost you a ton of money.

Do not underestimate the potential of young Photographers. Choosing that professional for the job is one of the easiest ways to save money and get a beautiful result at the same time.

 

  1. Book Really Early

 

Some photographers offer discounts for bookings in advance - one to two years before the wedding date. Photographers only get paid when they work, so they want to book as many dates as possible in advance. 

If you can book in advance, ask about the discount. Even if the photographer does not give an advance discount, booking in advance will save money because photographers can increase their rates per year. Booking next year’s wedding date will be locked at current rates.

 

  1. Book Off-Season

 

A few months weddings have become more popular than others. Slow booking of a photographer also gives a deeper discount. For example, the summer months get out of season because it is hotter than usual. 

Photographers who do not have much booking during these months are better off working at a discounted rate because it is better not to do any business. Off-season schedules may vary depending on your location.

 

  1. Start with Someone within your Budget

 

The place to start will be with your actual wedding budget. How much can you afford for a photographer? Experienced pros will charge you an average amount or more, so if you are on a tight budget, look for a new professional photographer or even a photography student.

Do not deceive yourself by thinking that you can talk to an amazing professional who regularly charges for wedding day photos for your day budget. So start by finding the photographer closest to your budget from the beginning.

 

 

  1. Ask About Referral Discounts 

 

Most wedding photographers offer referral discounts - even after you sign the contract. In fact, they will offer some discounts on your final payment if you get a referral to them based on your marriage proof.

You need to talk to your photographer to convince people you know to use your services. It works by sharing your photos on your social media sites, letting your newly engaged friends know about him or her, or letting other people you know about the photographer's family portrait options.

 

 

 

 

Questions to ask a wedding photographer

 

Before you bring out the plastic or sign the check, it is a good idea to set aside at least two hours to sit down with your prospective photographers. Interview them and don’t go blind and flap your wings.

 

Remember, your wedding pictures are a big investment that you want to last a lifetime. This is the money you are going to spend, you are the owner so do not be shy about questions.

 

Below is a list of questions we suggest asking:

  • Are you available for our wedding date?
  • How long have you been shooting weddings and how many weddings have you photographed?
  • Are there going to be extra lights for portraits?
  • Does the cost include retouching, color adjustment, and other editing services?
  • Can we review some of your albums/galleries that cover the entire wedding?
  • Have you worked with a similar marriage like ours?

 

 

 

 

Final Thought:

 

Whether you are on a super-strict wedding budget or you want to spend more money on your dress and less on your photographer, these tips can help keep you on track.

 

Wedding photographers are witnesses to your wedding. They are there to capture the best moments that started another part of your life. Their talent, skill and passion will be yours that day, and the work they create will be with you for a lifetime. So choose carefully and good luck!











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