The cost of your professional wedding photographer will be based on how long you hire them for, the number of retouched photos you want, whether any additional photographers or assistants will be on hand, the reputation of the wedding photographer, your geographic location, the day of the week and the season.

On one end of the spectrum, wedding photography may involve simply taking amazing photos of the marriage ceremony or your elopement — in which case costs remain relatively low, from $200 to $400. Or, professional wedding photography can capture everything wedding-related, including wedding showers, engagement parties, getting ready, the ceremony, the wedding reception and beyond, meaning you'll pay $3,000 to $5,000 or more.

Time

The length of time that the photographer's services are required can contribute significantly to cost. The typical wedding photography agreement covers several hours or half a day so the photographer can capture the venue, the ceremony and the important parts of the reception.

Duration Average cost 1 hour $227 2 hours $375 3 hours $523 4 hours $671 5 hours $819 6 hours $967 7 hours $1,116

Any additional activities beyond the ceremony and reception that couples want photographed can add to the time and cost, including photos of the wedding party getting ready, formal family photos, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, engagement photos or engagement parties, day-after brunches, and so on.

The average wedding photography agreement is typically for 8-10 hours or more so the photographer can capture the venue, the ceremony and the important parts of the reception.

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Number of locations

Some couples want every aspect of their wedding day photographed, from the early-morning gown and tux shots in the dressing rooms to the last guests snacking at the midnight food truck. If the photographer has to travel between multiple locations — such as the getting-ready location, the bridal party limo ride to the wedding site, the ceremony site and the reception hall — costs can be greater.

Multiple destinations don't always mean a higher price range, however, especially if you've purchased a wedding package that covers the full day.

Destination weddings

Destination weddings will almost definitely increase wedding photographer fees. Some photographers charge their normal rates plus travel, room and board. Other photographers may have an additional fee beyond their standard rates and travel expenses to accommodate the extra effort required for them to pack up their specialized equipment and work remotely.

Number of photographers

If your wedding is large, you might request — or your photographer may recommend — a photographer's assistant or additional photographer. If your guest list is very long, you'll want more than one camera to document those magic moments and important guests.

Even for small weddings, a photographer's assistant may be needed to handle extra equipment, set up lighting and ensure your photographer is primed to take those perfect shots. If your wedding takes place at sunset or you have requested a certain aesthetic, such as an editorial style, a wedding photographer may also need an assistant to ensure styling and proper lighting.

Adding a second photographer may increase the cost based on an hourly rate, while the photographer's assistant is typically paid at an hourly rate that is lower than that of the principal photographer. In general, extra hands mean a higher cost.

Wedding photographer's experience

Photographer reputation and demand have a huge impact on rates. Professional wedding photographers with a widely recognized brand will cost more than those just starting out.

The photographer's experience will also play a role. A new photographer looking to build their portfolio will often offer discounts to build clientele, while more established pros will have rates that reflect their experience.

Most wedding photographers only work one wedding a day, so if you have your heart set on someone with a cult following, secure their services early with a deposit.