Just like not all weddings are created equal, not all wedding photographers cost the same. The photographer you choose will contribute to the overall success of your big day. Often, it boils down to walking the fine line between experience and cost.
As is true with a number of professions, there are three broad categories of wedding photographers in terms of experience and cost:
1. Newbies
These are people who are relatively new to the field of professional wedding photography. They often do not have a portfolio of work to show and compensate for it by offering you cheap photography services. Also keep in mind that they may have limited gear like lenses, tripods and other accessories, which can impact the quality of the shoot.
Fee range: Under $1000 for a day shoot (8-hour assignment)
Pros:
Has potential
Is often cheaper to hire
Cons:
Has limited experience
The quality of work is not assured
2. Intermediate
Once a person has worked as a newbie for a while, they graduate to becoming an intermediate photographer. These artists usually have a small portfolio of wedding shoots and generally have built a small arsenal of photography gear. With experience, they can often become professionals with their own distinctive styles.
Fee range: ~$2000 for a day shoot (8-hour assignment)
Pros:
Has a portfolio of work
Not very expensive
Cons:
Portfolio is generally small
3. Professionals
These are the established players in the industry. Some have been around for a long time, having started working with film, while others are more recent entrants. Either way, the quality of work is guaranteed. They not only have great technique but also a unique style.
Fee range: ~$3000 for a day shoot (8-hour assignment)
Pros:
Established with a tonne of experience
Excellent quality of work, often with a distinctive style or speciality
Cons:
Can often be expensive
Some people have very sparse weddings but pick an excellent photographer who can shoot creatively to cover up any shortcomings. At the same time, there are others who can afford to splurge on the whole affair (and those who think of it as a once-in-a-lifetime thing) who spare no expense and hire often multiple photographers, a videographer as well as stylists.
What do I charge?
As a professional wedding photographer based in Auckland, I offer a few photography packages. I am open to shooting all around New Zealand, and cover not only weddings but also engagements, elopements and couple shoots. Check out my work and get in touch today.