Choosing a Wedding Photography Package | 6 Things You Need to Know

Looking for a wedding photographer?

This is everything you need to know about
wedding photography packages,
pricing, coverage time, and more.

What’s typically included in a wedding photography package?

The first thing you need to know is that not all wedding photography packages are created equal. Some packages simply cover the photographer’s shooting and editing time, while products and additional services are charged a la carte. Other photographers can include printed products, planning help, photo booths, travel, and/or engagement sessions in their packages - it all depends on what they offer. If you are receiving any printed products, keep in mind you may have to pay sales tax (although some businesses will factor that cost into their packages). Most wedding photography packages that include a set number of hours are continuous, meaning there are no breaks in your coverage - even if you don’t need photography during a specific time.

What is a print release and why is it important?

A print release is a statement from your photographer giving you the right to print your images from whatever photo lab you choose. Some photographers will include this in their packages, while others will charge extra or force you to print exclusively through their labs. It’s important to have a print release because in the future (5, 15, 50 years) you won’t want to be stuck tracking down your photographer for prints. Or worse yet, find out that the business no longer exists and you can’t print any more photos!

How many hours of wedding photography coverage will I need?

Choose the package with as many hours as you can afford. You’ll never look back at your wedding photos and wish your photographer had captured less. A 10-12 hour wedding photography package allows for pre-wedding festivities, intimate family moments, gift exchanges, candid getting ready moments, ample time for family/bridal party/wedding portraits, full coverage of the ceremony, reception, and every moment in between.

Most average wedding photography packages will include 8 hours of coverage. With 8 hours, photographers will have plenty of time for getting ready candids, formal wedding photos, the entire ceremony, & reception highlights.

What does a typical wedding photography package cost?

Wedding photography packages vary greatly depending on the services included, the experience of the photographer, and more. The typical price for a professional wedding photographer in Toledo, Ohio ranges from $2,000-$5,000. When comparing the cost of different photographers, you’ll want to base your comparison on the value they provide. What is the photographer bringing to your day? How much experience do they have? How involved is their process? Will they show up on the day of, or help you prepare along the way? The more value a photographer provides, the more their packages are worth.

How can I save money on wedding photography?

If you are looking to cut down on costs, choose a package with shorter time coverage, like 5 or 6 hours. When booking with an experienced wedding photographer, 5 or 6 hours can still allow time for a few getting ready candids, formal portraits, the entire ceremony and the beginning of the reception. The key to maximizing your time with this size package is creative planning, like having your guests start dinner in lieu of a cocktail hour. We recommend couples book at least 5 hours of coverage. Choosing a package with a print release is another way to save money because ordering prints through a professional will always cost more than buying them yourself!

How do you know when you’ve found the right wedding photographer?

The most important aspect of choosing a wedding photographer (besides loving their work) is making sure your personalities click. The more you connect with the person behind the camera, the more comfortable you will be in front of it. Ask yourself, “Can I see myself being with this person all day long?” (Cause they will be right next to you!) The closer you are with your photographer, the better they will be at capturing the things that matter most. For more information on this topic, check out our article on questions to ask before booking your photographer!

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