If you’re planning a wedding in Atlanta, one of the most important vendor decisions you’ll make is choosing your wedding photographer. An experienced wedding photographer will beautifully capture all the most precious moments of your big day so you can cherish them for a lifetime.
In this guide we are going to talk about what goes into the investment of a wedding photographer and provide a breakdown of typical Atlanta wedding photographer cost ranges and pricing. We’ll also share tips to help you find the right wedding photographer for your budget.
Why is Wedding Photography Expensive?
What adds to the cost of a wedding photographer? We will dive through the expenses that add to the final package cost.
Equipment
Professional wedding photographers invest in high-end camera bodies, specialized lenses, lighting gear, and backup equipment. This gear is expensive to purchase and maintain.
Time
Photography requires a huge time investment before, during, and after the wedding day. There are meetings, location scouting, processing/editing, album design, etc. A 10-hour wedding day may require 60+ hours total from the photographer.
Expertise
Experienced wedding photographers develop skills over many years and weddings. Clients pay for their artistic eye, ability to work under pressure, posing skills, and knowledge of how to capture a wedding seamlessly.
Pressure
Wedding photographers have immense pressure to capture once-in-a-lifetime moments perfectly, despite challenges like low light and crowds. There is little room for error.
Style
Photographers invest in lenses and specialty equipment to hone their artistic style. This allows them to create images that are visually striking and consistent with their brand aesthetic.
Uniqueness
Each wedding needs to be photographed in a unique way. Photographers put care into tailored shoots for couples and “must have” photos.
High-touch service
Top wedding photographers don’t just show up and take pictures. They consult, scout locations, provide personalized edits, design albums, suggest poses, and more.
Wedding photography requires immense investments of time, high-end gear, expertise and tailored art direction. These factors come together to command premium pricing.
Atlanta Wedding Photographer Cost and Pricing
But what exactly should you budget for wedding photography in Atlanta? The cost of a wedding photographer can vary quite a bit based on their level of experience. Here’s a breakdown of typical price ranges:
Novice Photographer: $0 – $500
Novice photographers are just starting out in wedding photography. They likely don’t have an extensive portfolio or refined editing style yet. Their prices are very low because they are looking to build their experience and portfolio.
While it may be tempting to go this affordable route, keep in mind that photography is a skill that takes time and practice to master. You risk capturing mediocre photos or working with someone unreliable.
Beginner Photographer: $500 – $1,200
Beginner wedding photographers have some experience under their belt but are still working to expand their portfolio and refine their skills. They offer an affordable option for couples on a tight budget.
Make sure to look closely at their previous work. Beginners’ photos may lack consistency or the ability to properly pose and direct groups.
Intermediate Photographer: $1,200 – $2,800
Intermediate photographers have photographed a good number of weddings and are more comfortable with the process. They have a more expansive portfolio showcasing their photography abilities. Their skills and experience justify the moderate price increase.
Look for professionals who have photography education, take a personal approach, and provide extra value like helpful resources and planning assistance.
Professional Photographer: $2,800 – $4,500
Professional wedding photographers have years of experience under their belts along with education, an excellent portfolio, and polished editing skills. They provide a high level of service and go the extra mile for clients.
At this tier, you can expect beautiful, artful images capturing all the most precious moments of your wedding day. Your photos will be magazine-worthy keepsakes.
Luxury Photographer: $4,500+
Luxury wedding photographers are at the top of their industry. They have photographed hundreds of weddings and fine-tuned their craft.
These professionals use top-notch high-end equipment. Their refined editing style results in visually stunning, creative images. Luxury photographers take an exceptionally personal, detail-oriented approach to give couples a truly elevated experience.
If your wedding is lavish and you want only the best, a luxury photographer is well worth the splurge. Your wedding photos will be nothing short of spectacular.
How Much Should You Spend on an Atlanta Wedding Photographer
A common rule of thumb is to allocate around 10-15% of your total wedding budget to photography. The price reflects factors like experience, quality, hours covered, number of photographers, products included, and travel. Carefully review portfolios in your price range and choose someone whose style you love! Investing more provides peace of mind and breathtaking photos to last a lifetime.
What Does Your Wedding Photography Package With Me Include?
It can seem like an Atlanta wedding photographer cost is steep. It’s important to understand you’re not just paying for 10 hours of taking photos on your wedding day. Your investment with me includes:
- Emails + Consultation (setting up calls/meetings, logistics communication)
- Meetings (initial meeting, check-in, pre-wedding meetings)
- Engagement Session (all correspondence, planning meetings, photographing, editing your photos)
- Camera Gear (camera bodies, lenses, film, sd cards, batteries, cases, etc)
- Business Subscriptions (editing platforms, website plan, client systems, etc)
- Resources (vendor recommendations, timeline assistance, planning help)
- Travel Fees (airfare, gas/mileage, hotels, and food for local and destination locations)
- Editing … Editing … Editing
- Professionally Edited Gallery (rights to download & share your photos with others and on social media)
- Capturing the Actual Wedding Day!! (getting ready, first-looks, family photos, wedding party, ceremony, reception)
- Online Print Shop (rights to download, print, frame, and share your photos)
A professional photographer pours time and care into each wedding they photograph. They handle everything behind the scenes – before, during, and after your wedding day – to deliver exceptional photos you’ll treasure for years.
Tips for Finding the Perfect Wedding Photographer
- Review portfolios closely to find a photography style you love. Make sure they have experience capturing weddings similar to yours.
- Book early! The best photographers book up fast. Reserve your preferred pro 12-18 months in advance.
- Ask about lighting for indoor/nighttime photos if applicable. Make sure they know how to work with challenging lighting scenarios.
- Personality fit is so important – you’ll be spending a lot of time together on your wedding day. Make sure you mesh well together.
- Discuss any special photos you want (styled shoots, specific locations, family photos, etc)
- Don’t just go for the lowest price – invest in a photographer whose work you love! This is something you don’t want to risk regretting.
- Sites like the Knot, Wedding Wire, and Zola are great ways to find wedding photographers in your area. You can also filter it by style and price range. However, vendors are not always vetted. You can find vetted luxury wedding photographers by checking Engaged ATL and other wedding resources such as Wedding Chicks, Style Me Pretty, Brides, and more.
Finding Your Atlanta Wedding Photographer
I’d love the opportunity to photograph your special day and provide you with gorgeous wedding photos to cherish for a lifetime. Please reach out if you feel we’d be a great fit!
Atlanta Wedding Photographer Photos
