The Cost of Wedding Photography in 2025: What Couples Need to Know

Planning your dream wedding involves many decisions, and one of the most important is choosing the right photographer. After all, your wedding photos will preserve your special day for years to come. But how much should you budget for wedding photography in 2025? There’s valid reasons to choose photographs at every level. Let’s break it down so you can make an informed decision.

Why Wedding Photography Costs What It Does

Wedding photography involves more than showing up with a camera. You’re investing in a photographer’s time, expertise, and creative vision. Experience and skill play a big role in the outcome of your photos and is exceedingly valuable. A seasoned wedding photographer knows how to handle unpredictable lighting, keep your timeline on track, and capture every meaningful moment of a day you will never be able to get back.

Average Costs for Wedding Photography in 2025

While wedding photography prices can vary drastically depending on location, experience, and the services offered, here’s a general breakdown for a Midwestern location:

Brand New ($0–$1,000)

This is a photographer with little to no experience in wedding photography. It’s likely that their gear and expertise won’t enable them to handle every situation proficiently, and their editing style may still be evolving.

For many couples, this can feel like a gamble, as the level of service and the quality of the final deliverables are uncertain heading into the wedding day.

Beginner or High Volume ($1,500–$3,000)

Photographers in this range might charge lower rates for various reasons, such as offering limited coverage (2–5 hours), having less experience or demand, or taking on a high volume of weddings each year (50+).

Generally, their customer service process may not be fully developed or could rely heavily on automation and a one-size-fits-all approach. Additionally, their photography might reveal a lack of experience in handling different lighting scenarios effectively. Their editing style may be inconsistent and lack cohesion.

This pricing tier is often attractive to couples on a tighter budget or those planning smaller, less formal weddings. It might also appeal to couples who prioritize capturing the basics of their wedding day without requiring extensive customization, advanced editing, or added services like albums or engagement sessions. While the outcome or experience may not be as polished, these photographers can still provide meaningful memories for couples seeking more affordable options.

Professional ($3,500–$7,000)

Photographers in this range are typically seasoned professionals with years of experience in wedding photography. They have invested in high-quality gear, advanced editing software, and ongoing education to consistently deliver exceptional results.

You can expect a well-structured and personalized customer service experience, with clear communication and attention to detail from the initial consultation to the final delivery of your photos. These photographers are proficient in managing a variety of lighting conditions and unexpected challenges, ensuring your wedding day is beautifully captured no matter the circumstances.

Their editing style is polished, cohesive, and tailored to match their artistic vision, resulting in images that are both timeless and uniquely yours. This level of professionalism often includes extras like engagement sessions, custom albums, and an additional photographer for comprehensive coverage.

Couples who book within this range value reliability, creativity, and peace of mind, knowing their memories are in capable hands.

Luxury ($8,000–$15,000)

Photographers in this range are the elite professionals of the wedding industry, offering an unparalleled experience and exceptional artistry. With years of expertise and a portfolio filled with high-profile or luxury weddings, they excel at capturing every detail with precision and creativity. Their investment in top-tier gear and cutting-edge editing techniques ensures that your photos are not just beautiful but breathtaking.

Couples who choose photographers at this level can expect a fully tailored experience. From extensive pre-wedding consultations to meticulous planning of timelines and shot lists, every aspect is customized to reflect your unique love story. These photographers often provide multi-day coverage for destination weddings and collaborate with other vendors to ensure a seamless experience.

Ultra Luxury ($20,000–$50,000+)

Ultra-luxury photographers are true visionaries, catering to couples seeking the pinnacle of artistry and exclusivity. These photographers often work on a global scale, shooting lavish destination weddings and partnering with the most prestigious planners and venues in the world. Their approach is entirely bespoke, blending fine art and photojournalism to create a personalized collection of timeless images.

Factors That Influence Pricing

Location

Photographers in urban areas or high-demand regions often charge more due to the cost of living and competition.

Wedding Size

Larger weddings may require additional photographers or assistants, increasing the overall cost.

Add-Ons

Engagement sessions, albums, prints, and extra hours of coverage can all add to the total price.

Experience Level

Established photographers with a strong portfolio often charge more, while newer photographers may offer lower rates as they build their business.

Tips for Maximizing Your Photography Budget

Prioritize What Matters Most

If photography is a top priority, consider allocating more of your budget to it and cutting back in less essential areas.

Book Early

Popular photographers often book up a year or more in advance, so secure your date as soon as possible.

Ask About Payment Plans

Many photographers offer flexible payment schedules to make the cost more manageable.

Communicate Clearly

Share your vision, timeline, and must-have shots during consultations to avoid surprises later.

Ask For a Customized Package

Don’t pay for what you don’t want. If there are products or hours in your package that you do not require then ask if they can be removed.

Is Wedding Photography Worth It?

Absolutely! Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and photography is the best way to relive those precious memories. While it’s an investment, having beautiful photos that tell your love story is priceless.

At The Bennetts, we understand how important your wedding day is. Our goal is to capture authentic, timeless images that you’ll treasure forever. If you’re planning your 2025 wedding in Missouri or beyond, we’d love to chat and see if we’re the perfect fit for your big day. For up to date pricing information visit our services page.

Additional Resources

Brides Magazine