Average cost of wedding photographer and videographer
Exploring the Average cost of A wedding photographer and videographer (And Why It's Worth It)
If you’re actively planning your wedding, you know there’s no shortage of decisions to make, but very few will shape your long-term memories in the same way as your choice of photographer and videographer. When it comes to photography and videography prices, it’s not just about numbers. It’s about curating the memory and preserving your legacy. Still, understanding what to expect in terms of the average cost of wedding photography and videography packages can help you plan with confidence. These aren’t just services you hire; they’re the way you’ll hold onto the feeling of this season of your life for decades to come.
Looking ahead from 2025 into 2026, it’s helpful to understand what you can expect to invest in creative services for your wedding day. Pricing can vary based on location, photographer and videographer’s experience, as well as how comprehensive a package you choose. However, one thing remains true: more and more couples are choosing to prioritize intentional, professional photography and videography coverage to ensure their day is preserved with care, artistry, and attention to detail.
In this post, I’m breaking down what’s typical, what influences cost, and what to look for when choosing the right photo and video team to document your story, whether you’re planning an intimate gathering close to home or a destination celebration in Hawaii or beyond.
What's Inside This Guide
What Shapes the Cost of Wedding Photography & Videography?
In 2025, several key factors continue to shape the cost of wedding photography and videography. First and foremost is the experience and reputation of the creative team you hire. Established photographers and videographers with glowing reviews often command higher fees—and with good reason. Couples are willing to invest more for the peace of mind that comes from knowing their day will be artistically documented with consistency by a seasoned professional.
Another factor that affects pricing is the scope of services included. Basic wedding photo and video packages often cover just a few hours of photography or videography and deliver a limited selection of edited images or video clips. More comprehensive packages may include full or multi-day coverage, multiple shooters, detailed post-production editing, and extras like engagement sessions or heirloom albums. Naturally, the more extensive or tailored the coverage, the higher the investment. Keep in mind that no two wedding days or venues are the same. Every location presents unique challenges, which is why your coverage, no matter who you hire, must include some level of customization.
Technology also plays a role in shaping costs. Tools like drones, high-resolution cameras, and cinematic editing techniques offer couples more creative, immersive ways to relive their day, but these services come at a premium. As technology advances, the artistry and expertise required to use it well only reinforce the value of hiring the right professional.
What's The Average Cost of Wedding Photography in 2025?
The average cost of wedding photography and videography in 2025 continues to rise, reflecting the demand for exceptional services. On average, couples can expect to spend between $3,500 and $5,000 for an entry-level professional wedding photographer. For mid-level wedding industry pros, couples may spend upwards of $6,500 to $9,000. While high-end, luxury wedding photographers typically $10,000 to $25,000. This range accounts for various factors, including package complexity, and the geographical location of the wedding, the photographer’s education and experience in the industry, and the service experience the photographer provides.
At the lower end of the spectrum, couples can find photographers who offer essential packages, typically including six to eight hours of coverage, a set number of edited photos, and digital delivery. Typically these packages do not include videography. These wedding photography packages may be suitable for smaller, more casual weddings. Photographers in this lower price range might be newer to the industry but can still provide quality work that meets a couple’s needs.
In the mid to higher range, photographers offer more comprehensive packages that include full-day coverage, multiple photographers, videography coverage by multiple cinematographers, engagement sessions, and additional products like photo albums, custom frames, or archival prints. These photographers often have years of experience and an established reputation. They bring a wealth of expertise and creativity to their work, ensuring that every moment of the wedding day is beautifully documented.
Understanding Cost of Wedding Photography at Every Level
| Photographer Level | Average Price Range | Typical Offerings |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Professional | $3,500 – $5,000 | Essential photography services, digital delivery |
| Mid-Level Professional | $6,500 – $9,000 | Photography bundles with albums, engagement sessions, bridal sessions, and more. |
| High-End / Luxury Professional | $10,000 – $25,000+ | Tailored, high-touch experience; luxury heirloom products; elite service |
What’s the Average Cost of Wedding Videography in 2025?
Videography continues to grow in popularity as couples seek meaningful ways to relive their wedding day through movement and sound. In 2025, the average investment for wedding videography typically ranges from $3,500 to $6,000 for entry-level professionals—depending on the videographer’s experience, the level of coverage, and the depth of post-production editing included. Mid-level videographers may charge $6,500 to $9,000. Luxury wedding videographers typically charge between $10,000 and $25,000. Similar to wedding photography, videography packages can vary widely in style, length, and final deliverables.
At the more basic level, videography packages often include a short highlight reel capturing key moments from the day. These packages usually offer 4-6 hours of coverage and a single videographer. While this provides a beautiful snapshot of your celebration, it may not capture all the nuance, emotion, and candid moments that a more comprehensive package would.
For couples looking for a more cinematic, story-driven experience, premium videography often includes full-day coverage, multiple cinematographers, and varied film styles, including editorial, documentary, cinematic, or hybrid. These packages often deliver a feature-length film, highlight reel, teaser trailers, and social media edits. The higher investment reflects not just the time capturing your day, but the artistry involved in crafting a story through sound, movement, and thoughtful post-production editing.
Understanding Cost of Wedding Videography at Every Level
| Videographer Level | Average Price Range | Typical Offerings |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Professional | $3,500 – $6,000 | Essential videography services, highlight film |
| Mid-Level Professional | $6,500 – $9,000 | Cinematography including edits sometimeds bundled with teaser trailers, social edits, or content creator add-ons. |
| High-End / Luxury Professional | $10,000 – $25,000+ | Tailored, cinematic storytelling; luxury heirloom films; elite service |
How Photography & Videography Work Together to Tell Your Story
When comparing the average cost of a wedding photographer and videographer, it’s important to understand not just what each service offers, but how they complement one another. Photography captures glimpses of raw emotion really well. Think fleeting glances, quiet gestures, or moments that are bursting with sheer, unadulterated joy—the portraits you’ll frame and return to again and again. Videography preserves the movement and energy, creating a more dynamic and immersive way to relive the emotions of the day. Each serves a different purpose, and for many couples, investing in both is the best way to fully document their wedding.
Photography packages often include options for prints and albums in addition to digital galleries. These are tangible ways to share these cherished memories for years to come. Engagement sessions are often included, too, giving couples time to build rapport and feel comfortable in front of the camera ahead of the big day.
Videography packages focus on crafting a narrative through film. Edited videos can range from short highlight reels to feature-length documentaries that capture more than just the events of the day, but the energy and emotion woven between them—vows, speeches, laughter, dances, and quiet, unscripted joy. Many videographers also offer creative extras like drone footage, same-day social media edits and live streaming, providing even more ways to share the experience.
Another Factor Contributing To The Average Cost of Wedding Photographers and Videographers
While photography and videography are often booked together, it’s important to understand that they are two distinct services, usually provided by separate vendors, which contributes to the average cost of wedding photographer and videographer services. Each of these mediums requires its own technical knowledge and skills, creative expertise, and team. It’s common for couples to hire separate businesses for each, which means coordinating two sets of contracts, deposits, timelines, and editing styles.
Additionally, videography is often priced higher than photography alone because it requires more cameras, additional equipment, and in-depth technical expertise in sound engineering.
That’s why some couples prefer to work with an all-in-one studio like LT2 Photography. By bringing both services under one roof, you can ensure a seamless and cohesive experience. From the flow of documenting your story to your final delivery, hiring a unified photo + video team can limit stress on your wedding day. Booking photo and video together simplifies your planning and creates space for more consistency, collaboration, and ease throughout the process.
If you’ve ever wondered, ‘why is wedding photography and videography so expensive?’
I answer your question, Wedding Photography & Videography FAQs.
Read the FAQ →
How Does Location Impact the Cost of Wedding Photography & Videography?
Location plays a significant role in shaping the cost of wedding photography and videography. In destinations like Hawaii, the Virgin Islands, or major cities like New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago, prices tend to be higher due to the increased cost of living and demand for premium services. Couples planning weddings in these markets can expect to invest more for experienced professionals with established reputations.
In smaller cities or rural areas, pricing can look different. A lower cost of living and less competition can sometimes mean more accessible rates. However, it’s worth noting that highly experienced professionals may be harder to come by in these markets and they may still command premium rates where their expertise is key to the final product. So, couples in small cities and rural areas may need to spend more time searching, or hire a traveling wedding photographerfrom outside their market to find the right fit.
Destination weddings bring their own considerations. Hiring local photographers and videographers can sometimes help manage costs, however, if you’re interested in pre-wedding photoshoots like engagement sessions or bridal portraits, you may need to hire a photographer local to you, or confirm whether those can be included in your destination wedding photography and videography package. Additionally, if you’re bringing a trusted professional from your home region, you will have to factor in their travel and accommodations. Some destination wedding packages, like theSignature All-Inclusive Wedding Photography and Videography PackageatLT2 Photography. bundle travel into the pricing, which shapes the overall investment while also providing an effortless and seamless experience.
Why Wedding Industry “Average Cost” Articles Can Be Misleading for Modern Couples
You might notice the averages I’ve shared here differ from those published in broader wedding industry reports, like The Knot’s annual breakdown. For example, The Knot’s 2025 report cites $2,900 as the average cost for a wedding photographer.
Here’s why there’s a disconnect:
➡ Data Like This Reflects a Wide, Generalized Range:
National averages include everyone from entry-level photographers working part-time to seasoned professionals commanding premium rates in high-cost markets. It’s a wide spectrum that’s not representative of couples who are specifically seeking intentional, high-touch artistry from their photo and video teams.
➡ It Doesn’t Reflect Your Specific Market or Needs:
“Average cost of wedding photographer and videographer” reports are often wildly generalized. These articles don’t account for market-specific realities. Coastal, metropolitan, and destination markets like Hawaii or the Northeast carry higher costs due to demand, cost of living, and the level of service couples expect.
➡ These “Averages” Often Include DIY & Budget Options:
The $2,900 average factors in couples hiring part-time photographers, friends-with-a-camera, or studios offering volume-based, entry-level packages. If you’re prioritizing artistry, storytelling, and seamless service, those aren’t the standards by which you should be comparing against.
➡ Artistry and Service Matter More Than Averages:
The true value of photography and videography goes far beyond hours of coverage. It’s about the level of craft, the quality of service, the attention to detail in post-production, and the peace of mind that comes from working with experienced professionals who prioritize you and your experience. Averages can’t reflect the care or artistry behind the work.
But ultimately, numbers alone can’t tell you what’s right for you. Invest in the level of quality and artistry that aligns with your vision. That’s how you’ll ensure your photos and films are something you’ll cherish—not regret.
Budgeting Wisely for Wedding Photography & Videography
Understanding the average cost of wedding photography and videography is helpful; however creating a thoughtful budget for your service package(s) matters just as much. It’s important to start with clear priorities. Begin by deciding how much of your total wedding investment you want to allocate to these services. Many wedding experts recommend setting aside 15-20% of your overall budget to ensure you have room to invest in professionals who will capture your memories with care.
Research is key. Take the time to explore the work of different photographers and videographers, comparing their style and offerings. Reviews and testimonials can offer valuable insights into their process, communication, as well as the overall experience they deliver to couples. Don’t hesitate to reach out for quotes and conversations. The way a professional responds to your questions says a lot about the service you can expect.
Finally, book your photographer and videographer early. The most sought-after creatives often book months or even years in advance, especially for peak seasons and destination dates. Booking ahead can help you lock in today’s pricing and secure your dream team without the stress of last-minute decisions and overspent budgets.
Still have questions about the cost of wedding photography and videography packages, or how it all works?
I’ve answered some of the most common questions couples ask in Wedding Photography & Videography FAQ. Everything from what’s typically included to how to make the most of your investment.
Read the FAQ →
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Elevated Wedding Media
At LT2 Photography, we craft an experience that’s intentional, emotional, and unmistakably yours. Because this isn’t just a day—it’s your beginning.
From timeline guidance to intentional imagery, every part of the LT2 experience is designed to feel effortless, supported, and entirely you. We bring quiet luxury, emotional depth, and an eye for what matters most—so you can stay present and enjoy it all.
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Hey hey—LaDonna here!
Photographer, storyteller, and quiet observer of the moments that matter most. LT2 isn’t just about taking pretty pictures. It’s about creating space where you can be fully present, fully yourself, and fully seen.
Because your wedding isn’t just a milestone. It’s legacy in motion—real, radiant, and worth preserving with care and soulful artistry.
