Going rate for photographers

Our photographer charged £1,000 for a full day package to include bridal party getting ready, arrival of guests, ceremony, drinks reception through to cake cutting, first dance and a little after.

RG Studios in Ashford

Looks like prices have gone up for 2024.

It totally depends on location, experience and also the package you are getting. We paid £450 for a half day midweek in South Wales which is a cheap area. An all-day package on a weekend would have cost a lot more.

I'd work out how much of the day you want covered (although if you are getting married at a popular time of year, especially at the weekend, you may struggle to find a photographer willing to do part-day coverage) and how much you can afford and go from there. Apart from your wedding rings, your photos are the one thing you keep from the day, so it's worth paying to get ones you like. Make sure you see a wide range of pictures in all kinds of lighting and weather conditions and ask to see some full wedding albums. I know at least one photographer whose website looks awesome because they've cherry-picked their best photos, but they regularly produce blurry, grainy or whited out pictures in poor light!