How Much Does a Wedding Photographer Cost? A Complete Guide to Prices and What You Should Consider

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introduction

If you are planning your wedding, one of the questions that sooner or later you will ask yourself is: how much does a wedding photographer cost?
It is a legitimate question, but the answer is not simple. There is no standard price list that is valid for everyone, because the price depends on many factors: experience, photographic style, duration of the service, post-production, album and much more.

In this article, I will guide you step by step through everything you need to know about wedding photography prices: how much you spend on average, what affects the cost, how to distinguish a professional service from an improvised one and, above all, how to choose the right photographer to tell your story.


How much does a wedding photographer cost on average?

Price ranges in the wedding photography market

In Italy, the price of a wedding photographer can vary significantly depending on the area, the style and the level of the professional. Here is an indicative overview:

  • Entry level photographer: €1,300 – €1,400

  • Professional photographer: €1,600 – €2,500

  • Top of the range or nationally/internationally renowned photographers: €3,000 and above

My advice? Don’t evaluate the price only in numerical terms, but in relation to the value and quality of what you are offered.


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What does the cost of a wedding photographer depend on?

1. Experience and training

A photographer with years of experience, a consolidated portfolio and continuous technical training will have higher rates than someone who improvises or is a beginner. But this experience makes the difference in critical moments: the light that changes, an unexpected event during the ceremony, the emotions that must be captured in a second.

2. Professional equipment

Cameras, lenses, lights, backup, software: the equipment of a professional photographer can exceed 30,000 euros. It is everything that guarantees reliability, quality and safety of the result.

3. Time Dedicated

A wedding photo shoot doesn’t just last the wedding day. There are hours of:

  • pre-marital interviews
  • pianification
  • shots during the event (even 12+ hours)
  • selection and professional post-production

  • making of the album

On average, a photographer invests 60-90 hours of work for each wedding.

4. Style and customization

Every photographer has his or her own style: classic, reportage, artistic, cinematic. If you are looking for a recognizable, coherent and authentic style, you are also choosing a type of visual language, not just a person with a camera.


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What is included in the price of a wedding photographer?

A professional photographer will offer you a complete package that may include:

  • Introductory meetings and site inspection
  • Wedding day shots (with or without second photographer)
  • Advanced Post-Production
  • High resolution digital delivery
  • Creation of artisanal or fine art albums
  • Extra services: engagement, trash the dress, video, drone

Make sure that all the details are clear in the quote: hours of coverage, number of shots delivered, type of album and delivery times.


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Is it possible to find a cheap wedding photographer?

Beware of too low prices

Finding a low cost photographer is possible, but I invite you to reflect:

  • For those who work under 1,400 euros, how can they guarantee backup equipment, post-production hours and quality of service?
  • Is he working legally, with VAT number and insurance?
  • What guarantees do you offer in case of problems or unforeseen events?

Often those who offer rock-bottom prices work illegally or reduce the quality of each phase: entry-level equipment, poor care in selecting photos, fast or no editing, and zero customer service.


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The importance of the photo album

The wedding album is the final product that preserves your memories. A good photographer works with professional laboratories, artisans or companies like Graphistudio, which guarantee quality in printing, binding and durability over time.

Professional albums are not “supermarket photo books”, but real art objects, designed to last a lifetime. Their cost can vary between 400 and 1,000 euros, depending on the format and materials chosen.


How to choose the right photographer for your wedding

  • See the full portfolio, not just the best photos on social media

  • Check your online presence: website, reviews, presence on industry portals
  • Ask for an introductory meeting, even just online: it helps you understand if there is a connection, if the photographer listens to you, if he inspires trust in you

  • Ask questions: How many weddings have you photographed? Will you work alone or in a team? How long will it take to receive the photos?

Conclusions: Price matters, but trust matters more

A professional wedding photographer is not just a supplier, but a silent witness of the most important day of your life. He is the person who will be there, next to you, in the most emotional moments, without being noticed, but capturing everything.

Luca Gallizio wedding photographer selected among the top 50 in the world 2024 for 5 years by ispwp

🎯 I am Luca Gallizio, a wedding photographer. I work with couples who are looking for authenticity, emotion and a visual story that really speaks about them. If you are also looking for something that goes beyond simple photos… let’s talk about it.


Contact me

📍 I work mainly between Bolzano, Verona, Lake Garda and Trento, but I am also available for weddings throughout Italy and abroad.

📞 +393397331730
📧 info@lucagallizio.it

📆 Write me to receive my complete price list or to schedule a free consultation. A simple message can be the beginning of the story of your story.