Photographer Rates: What Real Couples Actually Pay for Wedding Photos

When you start planning your big day, one of the first numbers that pops up is the cost of a wedding photographer. It can feel like a guessing game, but the truth is pretty clear once you break it down: you’re paying for time, talent, equipment, and the peace of mind that someone will capture every key moment.

Most UK photographers charge either a flat day rate or an hourly fee that scales with the services you add (like a second shooter or a photo album). A typical full‑day package (8‑10 hours) runs between £1,200 and £2,500. If you only need coverage for the ceremony and portraits, expect to pay around £600‑£1,000 for 4‑5 hours.

How Many Hours Do You Really Need?

Think about your timeline. A ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, and first dance can easily fill 8‑10 hours. The extra hours aren’t wasted – they give the photographer time to capture candid moments, family portraits, and those sneaky details you might miss otherwise.

If you’re on a tighter budget, a 6‑hour coverage focusing on the ceremony and key portraits can still work, but you’ll lose some of the relaxed after‑party shots. The rule of thumb? Add at least one extra hour beyond the official schedule so the photographer can move at their own pace without feeling rushed.

Two Photographers vs. One: Does It Matter?

Hiring a second shooter usually adds £300‑£600 to the total cost. The benefit is a wider angle on the day: one photographer can focus on the bride while the other captures the groom’s reaction, or you get simultaneous coverage of the ceremony and reception.

Most couples who want a comprehensive, cinematic story opt for two shooters. If you’re comfortable with a single style and your day is simple, one photographer can still deliver beautiful images – just make sure they’re experienced with handling multiple moments at once.

Another cost‑saving tip is to negotiate the deliverables. Some photographers include a full‑resolution digital gallery, a USB drive, and a printed album in the price. If you only need the digital files, you can often shave a few hundred pounds off the package.

When it comes to payment, most photographers ask for a 30‑50% deposit to lock the date, with the balance due a week or two before the wedding. Ask for a clear contract that outlines the deposit, final payment, and any cancellation policy – this protects both you and the photographer.

Finally, don’t forget the hidden costs: travel fees for out‑of‑town venues, extra editing for a large crowd, and rush fees if you need the images sooner. A transparent photographer will list these up front, so you can compare apples to apples.

Bottom line: set a realistic photography budget (around 10‑12% of your total wedding spend), decide how many hours and shooters you need, and read the contract carefully. With those steps, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for and can walk down the aisle confident that every smile, tear, and dance move will be captured beautifully.