The Value of a Photographer

One of the first few questions a Bride & Groom ask a potential wedding photographer is "how much do you charge." It is a completely valid question, and one that shouldn't be taken lightly. Wedding photographers come in a spectrum of styles and price points, depending on the services they provide and the experience they hold in their pockets. Brides and Grooms on a budget may find a potentially astounding student or beginner photographer at a very low cost. However, buyer should beware when leaving your most treasured memories in the hands of a beginner. Don't get me wrong we all start somewhere, just be sure to view any photographers past work and ask them lots of questions before signing on the dotted line. Experienced photographers wedding packages may seem high to the average customer. But why? Here's what a photographer may consider when building packages for weddings:

1. Experience - It is often seen through the prices! Photographers who have been around awhile, have a greater reputation and are in great demand can value their work at a higher price.
2. Time - How many hours of photography will they be providing at the wedding? How many hours of pre-wedding prep time will be needed (meetings, equipment etc.) How much time will be spent in post production editing the final products?
3. Services - Do they offer more than one photographer? A videographer? Do they provide online galleries, guest books, photo booths?
4. Products - How much will albums cost to create, print and deliver? Thank you cards, prints, slideshows. Are they willing to provide the bridal couple with copywrite free images? And at what cost?
5. Business Needs - How much does the business need to operate? Lease, utilities, equipment, taxes, it all adds up!

I am sure that the list may go on but these are the main considerations a photographer has to make so $2000 for a wedding may not seem like such a huge number when you divide it into all its compartments and in return, you get a fabulous photographer who's style and artistry matches your individual personalities in capturing your memories. Now who can really put a price on that?

April