Average Wedding Photography Prices in the UK in 2023
Wedding photography is an essential aspect of any couple's big day, capturing memories that will last a lifetime. In this article, we will discuss wedding photography prices in the UK in 2023, helping you make an informed decision when choosing a photographer for your special day.
The Average Cost of Wedding Photography in the UK in 2023
According to a recent survey by Bridebook, the average cost of wedding photography in the UK in 2022 was £1,289, while Hitched's 2023 wedding survey found the average cost to be £1,300. These figures indicate that you can expect to pay between £800 and £3,000 for wedding photography, with prices varying depending on factors such as the photographer's experience, location, and package inclusions.
Regional Variations in Wedding Photography Prices
Wedding photography prices can vary depending on the region you are getting married in. London has the highest average cost at £1,835, while Yorkshire and the Humber are the most affordable, with an average cost of £1,094.
Destination Weddings
For couples planning a destination wedding, the average cost of wedding photography was £1,609 in 2022. This higher cost may be attributed to travel expenses, accommodation, and the time required for the photographer to travel to the wedding location.
Factors Affecting Wedding Photography Prices
There are several factors that can impact the cost of wedding photography. Some of these factors include:
Photographer's experience and reputation
Hours of coverage
Number of photographers
Package inclusions (e.g., engagement shoot, photo album, prints)
Travel and accommodation expenses
For a detailed breakdown of wedding photography prices based on different factors, you can refer to this comprehensive guide on Wedding Photography Prices by Hitched.
Facts About Wedding Photography Packages Prices
When it comes to wedding photography, photographers will typically offer packages to their clients. These packages will vary depending on the photographer and what services they offer. Most packages will include the photographer's time at the wedding, how many edited images will be delivered, and any additional products, such as a USB or wedding album.
The more services and products that a couple wants, the higher the overall cost will be. Therefore, it is important to speak with the photographer to determine which wedding package would be best for you. It is also crucial to fully understand what is included in the package and ensure that the contract details these services in detail.
To give you an idea of the different types of wedding photography packages that photographers offer across the UK:
BASIC PACKAGES (£)
Basic wedding photography packages typically include the photographer's time for shooting the main events, such as the ceremony, formal photos, and some of the reception. These packages tend to be shorter in the amount of overall time your photographer will be at the wedding.
Couples who choose a basic wedding photography package usually only want coverage for specific events and a few edited photos with no products such as albums and prints. If you are on a restricted budget, these types of packages might be perfect for you. For example, some photographers offer a ceremony and photos up until the start of the reception and a smaller number of edited photos.
MIDRANGE PACKAGES (££)
Midrange wedding photography packages typically include a longer time frame than basic packages. These packages normally include meetings with couples, a pre-wedding shoot, and a good amount of wedding photos on a USB or online gallery.
Midrange wedding photography packages generally have a set number of hours and will capture most of the important moments on your wedding day. Photographers tend to limit these packages to about 8 or 9 hours.
EXPENSIVE PACKAGES AKA LUXURY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY (£££)
Expensive wedding photography packages include the highest level of service and products. This includes full-day wedding coverage, right from the very start of the day to the very last goodbye at your wedding.
These expensive packages usually include all the bells and whistles, including a second photographer or an assistant. You will probably get a pre-wedding photo shoot and some photography products like an album and prints.
The average price of wedding photography packages in the UK varies between regions. London is the most expensive region, with an average wedding photography cost of £1,679, while the North East has the cheapest wedding photographer prices, with an average cost of £1,268. The South West, Wales, South East, North West, Scotland, West Midlands, East of England, and East Midlands all fall in between these price ranges.
Regional Averages for Wedding Photography Prices in the UK in 2023
In 2023, wedding photography prices vary across different regions in the UK. The following data provides an overview of the average costs in various areas, giving engaged couples a better understanding of what to expect depending on their location.
Regional Averages For Wedding Photographers The stat’s I have found match YPWP’s survey with the North East having the cheapest wedding photographer prices and the South West having one of the most expensive prices. I did find a minor discrepancy, that London wedding photographer prices were among the most expensive, but there was a larger sample size as there were many wedding photographers in London, and most of them listed their prices on their websites.
London - £1,679
The average price for wedding photographers in London is £1,679. The higher cost can be attributed to the large number of photographers in the area and the variety of packages offered. With a multitude of websites listing all-day wedding photography prices, London offers a diverse range of options for couples to choose from.
South West - £1,675
In the South West, couples can expect to pay an average of £1,675 for wedding photography services. This region has one of the highest costs for wedding photographers, making it crucial for couples to budget accordingly.
Wales - £1,455
For those planning a wedding in Wales, the average cost for a wedding photographer is £1,455. This price is relatively more affordable compared to London and the South West, providing couples with more flexibility in their budget.
North East - £1,268
The North East offers the most budget-friendly option for wedding photography, with an average price of £1,268. This lower cost allows couples to allocate more funds towards other aspects of their wedding.
South East - £1,545
In the South East, the average wedding photography cost stands at £1,545. Couples in this region can expect to pay a slightly higher amount compared to the national average.
North West - £1,318
The North West has a relatively moderate wedding photography cost, with an average price of £1,318. This figure is below the national average, offering a more affordable option for couples in the area.
Scotland - £1,618
Wedding photography prices in Scotland average at £1,618. Couples in this region should be prepared to pay a bit more for their photography services compared to other areas.
West Midlands - £1,495
In the West Midlands, the average cost for wedding photography is £1,495. This figure is slightly above the national average, so couples should plan their budget accordingly.
East of England - £1,480
The average wedding photography cost in the East of England is £1,480. This price is fairly close to the national average, providing couples with a reasonable option for their photography needs.
East Midlands - £1,450
In the East Midlands, couples can expect to pay an average of £1,450 for wedding photography services. This price is slightly below the national average, offering a more budget-friendly option.
Northern Ireland - £1,380
The average cost of wedding photography in Northern Ireland is £1,380. This figure is lower than the national average, providing couples with a more affordable option for their special day.
Factors Affecting Wedding Photography Prices
There are several factors that can impact the cost of wedding photography. Some of these factors include:
Photographer's experience and reputation
Hours of coverage
Number of photographers
Package inclusions (e.g., engagement shoot, photo album, prints)
Travel and accommodation expenses
For a detailed breakdown of wedding photography prices based on different factors, you can refer to this comprehensive guide on Wedding Photography Prices by Hitched.
How to Choose a Wedding Photographer
When selecting a wedding photographer, it's essential to consider not only the cost but also their style, experience, and reputation. To help you make an informed decision, here are some resources:
Tips for Engaged Couples
Set a realistic budget for wedding photography and prioritize it within your overall wedding budget.
Research potential photographers, review their portfolios, and read testimonials from previous clients.
Schedule consultations with your top choices to discuss your vision and expectations.
Be open to negotiating with photographers to customize a package that suits your needs and budget.
Ensure that you have a written contract with your chosen photographer, outlining the services to be provided and the agreed-upon price.
Is it OK to negotiate with a wedding photographer?
Many engaged couples wonder if it is okay to negotiate with a wedding photographer. While it is not uncommon for vendors to have a little wiggle room in their pricing, it is important to remember that wedding photography is a skilled profession and the price often reflects the photographer's experience and expertise. Some photographers may be willing to negotiate, but others may not be willing to budge on their pricing. If you are considering negotiating with a wedding photographer, it is important to do so respectfully and keep in mind that they may not be able to accommodate your request.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wedding photography prices in the UK in 2023 can vary significantly, with an average cost of around £1,300. Factors such as the photographer's experience, location, and package inclusions will influence the final price. It's essential for engaged couples to research potential photographers, set a realistic budget, and prioritize wedding photography within their overall wedding budget. By following these guidelines and utilizing the resources provided, you can ensure that you find the perfect photographer to capture your special day, creating memories that will last a lifetime.