How Much Should You Expect to Spend on Wedding Photography & Videography?
When planning a wedding, one of the biggest questions couples ask is: How much should we budget for photography and videography?
Most couples are getting married for the first time, so it’s completely normal to feel a little lost when it comes to pricing. You might start your search thinking a $2,000 budget is reasonable, only to realize that top-tier wedding photo and video teams can cost $10,000 or more.
So, what should you expect to pay? The truth is, wedding photography and videography pricing varies widely depending on experience, quality, and the overall experience you’re investing in. In this guide, I’ll break down different price points in the industry and help you understand what to expect at each level.
Why Do Wedding Photography & Videography Prices Vary So Much?
Unlike some wedding expenses (like catering or venue costs), photography and videography pricing has less to do with location, competition, or market demand. Instead, it comes down to:
- Skill and Experience – A seasoned professional with years of experience and a strong portfolio will charge more than someone just starting out.
- Quality of Work – Luxury filmmakers and photographers invest in high-end gear, advanced editing, and years of training to perfect their craft.
- Team Size & Coverage – Some packages include multiple shooters, extended hours, and additional sessions like engagement shoots or adventure sessions.
- Final Deliverables – Are you receiving a simple highlight film, or are you getting a full-length wedding film, documentary edits, and custom albums?
With that in mind, let’s break down the different pricing tiers and what you can expect at each level.
Wedding Photography & Videography Price Ranges
Budget/Price Shopping: $0 – $2,000
This price range is typically for couples who prioritize cost savings over artistic vision.
What to expect:
✅ Entry-level photographers or videographers with minimal experience
✅ Shorter coverage (often 4-6 hours)
✅ Basic editing, no advanced retouching or cinematic storytelling
✅ Limited final deliverables (fewer photos, shorter highlight video)
❌ Inconsistent quality – results may not meet expectations
❌ Limited or no backup equipment, second shooters, or insurance
This is an option for couples who just want basic documentation of their wedding but don’t prioritize professional storytelling or high-end production quality.
Mid-Market: $2,000 – $4,000
At this tier, you’ll find solid photographers and videographers who have more experience and a more refined style.
What to expect:
✅ Experienced solo photographers or videographers
✅ 6-8 hours of coverage
✅ A highlight wedding film (3-5 minutes) or a basic photography package
✅ Better equipment and editing quality than the budget tier
❌ Limited creative direction and artistic storytelling
❌ Fewer premium options (no second shooters, limited customization)
This range is ideal for couples who want good-quality coverage without all the luxury add-ons or extensive storytelling.
Upper Mid-Market: $5,000 – $10,000
This is where high-quality, professional storytelling begins. If you want wedding photography and videography that captures the depth of your emotions with a cinematic and editorial feel, this is where you should be looking.
What to expect:
✅ A skilled team with a strong portfolio and consistent results
✅ 8-10+ hours of wedding day coverage
✅ Cinematic wedding film (5-12 minutes) or a full photography gallery
✅ Second shooters for better coverage and multiple angles
✅ More creative direction and attention to detail
✅ Higher-end gear, lighting, and backup equipment for reliability
This is where most couples land when they truly value their wedding memories. A couple might start with a $3,000 budget but, after seeing the difference in quality, decide to invest closer to $8,000 to ensure they get the best experience.
This is actually the price range Hodges Media falls into. My starting package rate is $4800.
Entry Luxury/Destination Weddings: $10,000 – $20,000
This tier is where luxury wedding photographers and filmmakers operate. Couples at this level aren’t just looking for documentation—they want a fully customized, high-end experience.
What to expect:
✅ Highly sought-after photographers and filmmakers with years of expertise
✅ Extended coverage, multi-day wedding weekend films, or destination shoots
✅ Signature editing style with magazine-worthy quality
✅ Full-length documentary films, teaser films, and cinematic storytelling
✅ High-end client experience, including pre-wedding planning and consultations
✅ Travel costs included for destination weddings
This level is for couples who want exceptional storytelling, personalized attention, and truly breathtaking wedding films and albums.
Ultra Luxury: $20,000+
This is the ultra-premium level where wedding photography and videography become a bespoke, artistic experience.
What to expect:
✅ World-renowned photographers and filmmakers
✅ Multi-day event coverage with multiple cinematographers and photographers
✅ Handcrafted luxury wedding albums and heirloom film collections
✅ VIP-level client service and concierge planning
✅ Hollywood-level production, lighting, and editing techniques
At this level, couples are investing in art, experience, and exclusivity.
How Much Should YOU Spend on Wedding Photography & Videography?
Ultimately, your budget comes down to your priorities. If photography and videography are a top priority for your wedding, you’ll want to invest in a team that can truly do your love story justice.
A few things to consider when budgeting:
- Your wedding day happens once. You can’t redo these moments, so investing in quality matters.
- Unlike flowers or catering, your wedding photos and films will last a lifetime.
- If you’re already investing in a beautiful venue, designer dress, or luxury details, your visuals should match the overall aesthetic and emotional significance of your day.
Final Thoughts
Wedding photography and videography are investments in your memories. The right team will preserve the emotions, energy, and love of your day in a way that feels cinematic, timeless, and deeply personal.
Whether you’re looking for an elegant highlight film, a full documentary wedding film, or high-end editorial photography, knowing what to expect at each pricing level helps you make an informed decision.
If you’re currently searching for a wedding videographer, let’s chat! I specialize in high end wedding films in Nashville, TN that blend elegance, storytelling, and emotion to create an unforgettable experience. Contact me today to learn more about our collections and how we can bring your wedding vision to life!
