How Much Does Wedding Photography Cost?

A Luxury Photographer’s Guide to Pricing, Value & What You’re Really Paying For

If you’ve recently begun planning your wedding, you’ve probably discovered that wedding photography prices vary wildly. You might see packages at £800, others at £2,000, and some reaching £10,000 or more. So why the difference? And more importantly—how do you know what you’re actually paying for?

As a fashion and editorial wedding photographer based in England and available worldwide, I’ve photographed countless weddings in a style that blends candids, posed editorial, and documentary storytelling. My approach is all about capturing timeless, natural moments—but with a high standard of Vogue-worthy artistry.

Below, I’ll break down what wedding photography really costs, what influences those prices, and how to choose the photographer that’s right for you.

The Short Answer: Wedding Photography in the UK Typically Costs £1,200–£10,000+

Wedding photography is an investment because you’re not just paying for someone to show up with a camera. You’re investing in experience, artistry, professionalism, and the ability to document a once-in-a-lifetime day that you can never repeat.

Here’s how the industry generally breaks down:

- Budget photographers: under £1,200  

- Mid-range photographers: around £2,000  

- Luxury photographers: £5,000+

My own wedding package begins at £1,500 for 8 hours of coverage, which includes a luxury, professionally designed album delivered within two weeks of your wedding.

What Influences the Cost of Wedding Photography?

Every wedding is different, but here are the biggest factors that shape your quote:

Coverage Hours 

More hours = more images, more editing time, more preparation, and more storytelling.

Number of Photographers 

Some weddings benefit from a second photographer, especially larger or high-guest-count events.

Location 

I photograph weddings across England and internationally.  

For destinations outside the UK, travel fees (flights + accommodation) are added.

Guest Count & Logistics 

A 40-guest countryside wedding and a 300-person luxury London event are two completely different storytelling experiences.

Client Vision & Bespoke Needs  

Some couples want a high-fashion editorial shoot woven into their day.  

Others want pure documentary.  

Some want both.  

Each has different creative and time requirements.

Why Luxury Wedding Photography Costs More

Luxury photography is not about a label—it’s about the experience, artistic direction, and craftsmanship.

My work blends:

- Editorial posing and direction

- Candid, documentary storytelling

- Attention to detail that clients consistently praise

- A non-intrusive presence so couples can fully enjoy their day

Being present, yet almost invisible, is an art in itself. Many couples underestimate how important this is until they experience it.

And that’s often reflected in the feedback I receive:

Your attention to detail is unmatched. You captured moments we didn’t even realise were happening. The images exceeded anything we expected.

This is why luxury photography has higher pricing—because it requires creativity, planning, technical skill, and the ability to perform under pressure while still producing editorial-level work.

A Case Study: When Investment Meets Value

I once photographed a couple who initially assumed “luxury fashion photography” would be far beyond their budget. During our consultation, we discussed their vision, their budget range, and how I could deliver exceptional work without compromising what mattered most to them.

On the wedding day, I captured a blend of candid moments and elegant editorial portraits that perfectly reflected their personalities. Afterwards, they told me:

“We didn’t realise wedding photos could look like this. Everyone said they belong in a magazine.”

This is the difference between hiring someone who simply documents the day—and someone who elevates it.

The Misconceptions Couples Often Have About Pricing

Photographers only work for one day.

In reality, the work includes consultations, planning, location scouting, gear prep, shooting, and extensive editing. A single wedding often represents 40–60 hours of work.

“All photographers deliver the same quality.”

Experience, style, equipment, editing, and artistic vision vary dramatically.  

Photography is not a commodity—it’s a creative profession.

“Luxury photography is always out of budget.”

Not necessarily. I always encourage a consultation because many couples are surprised at how flexible we can be while still maintaining quality.

So… How Much Should *You* Expect to Spend?

It depends on your priorities.

If you want:

- Timeless images  

- A natural and effortless feel  

- Editorial, couture-inspired portraits  

- A relaxed photographer who blends into your day  

- Quick delivery and a luxury album  

…then you’re likely looking at mid-range to luxury pricing.

For my clients, the starting cost for my wedding photography cost is £1,500, with custom quotes available depending on the wedding’s needs.

Final Thoughts: Your Wedding Photos Are One of the Only Things That Last Forever

Flowers fade. Music stops. Venues empty.  

But your photos become the visual legacy of your wedding day.

Choosing the right photographer isn’t about finding the cheapest—it’s about choosing someone whose work, presence, and artistry you trust.

If you’re planning your wedding and want timeless, editorial, natural images captured with care and detail, I’d love to learn your vision and create something unforgettable with you.

After all…  

You only live your wedding day once—your photos let you relive it beautifully, forever.