Wedding Photography (General Inquiries)

How much does a Wedding Photographer generally cost?
This is a hard question to answer as it is always varying between regions. Often, photographers from big cities (i.e Vancouver or Toronto areas) are going to cost more than in other, smaller areas. Other factors to consider are the services/packages they offer, experience level and travel distance of the photographer you've chosen. The average couple will spend approximately $3,000 for 6 hours of wedding day coverage, with others ranging between the $1,500 and the $8,000 mark.

How much do Engagement Photos cost?
Another varying cost when it comes to getting married that again depends on experience levels, packages etc. Engagment photos are often included in some photographers packages, while others will make it a seperate expense. They can range anywhere from $150 to $600. I personally recommend doing Engagement photos with your Wedding photographer to get used to them and know their personality before your big day. They're going to be your shadow! You have to like them.

What's covered in a Wedding Photographer's Prices?
Every photographer is different and I cannot stress that enough. When you are looking for a photographer always read the information about pricing and packages closely.
Here are some of the things to look for and take note of:

• Time: Photographers often base their packages around the time they offer for Weddings, usually between 4 to 10 hours. The more time you would like covered, the more you will pay and additional hours will cost extra.
• Travel: Depending on where your event will take place and where your photographer operates out of, you may be charged for travel and/or accomodation. Travel can be anything from gas mileage, air fair or hotel accomadations for one or two nights stays.
• Second Shooters: Does your photographer shoot with a second? Do you want a second for your event? Have they shot with a second before? Second shooters are not necessary for all weddings, but if you feel like you want one it is something to discuss with your photographer.
• Editing: THIS is a big one! A large part of your photographer's time will go into editing and retouching your wedding photos. When meeting your photographer make sure you like their editing style. Everyone has different styles.
• Images: Your photographer's cost SHOULD include the actual images. Some photographers will charge extra for the images after the initial wedding cost. Digital files are often provided via online gallery or USB drive.
• Prints: Some photogrpahers will include prints in their wedding photography rates, a small sneak peak of how they come out on photo paper.
• Albums Wedding Albums are more popular in some areas than others. The "issue" with these is your photographer is picking their favourite images, which may not necessarily be yours. (I personally don't include an album as some people don't want them or want to choose different images or layouts for their pages.
• Additional Shoots: Many photographers will include engagement shoots or discount boudoir sessions in their packages.

Be aware of the print release and what your photographer allows to be done with their photos

Should you Tip your photographer?
Tips are never included in a photographer's prices. They are something that you could consider doing for your photographer, though many people don't tip for these services. Recomended tips range between $100 and $300.

When should you Hire your photographer?
Many begin by securing a venue before looking for a photographer, unless you have a specific person in mind. Often couples will being hiring their photographers up to a year in advance. I would not put off finding a photographer any longer than 4 months before your wedding.

Do I have to pay for my photographers meals?
Please feed your photographer. We need to bring our A game and even if we get a quick bite, we are able to perform to the best of our ability for you.

Should I get a second shooter?
It depends. Some people swear by second shoots and say they can't shoot without them, others have photographed solo forever and swear by that. Having a second shooter can be beneficial in some scenarios, but that is another thing to bring up with your specific photographer.

What are some Important Questions to ask a photographer BEFORE booking?

• How would you describe your style?
• Can I see Two full albums from your weddings?
• Can I see your packages and prices?
• When and how will I recieve my images?
• What do you enjoy most about being a wedding photographer?
• Can I see your contract?
• What do you need for time between the Ceremony and Reception?

Having the right information, and questions to ask are half the battle, the next part is matching up your personality with another profesionals in order to capture your day smoothly and effectively. Photographers are still just people and if they are in the business they should be just as excited about your wedding as you are.
Ask them questions, share your excitement, and remember that it's YOUR day.