How Much Should Your Wedding Photographer Cost?
The Ultimate Couples Guide to Wedding Photographer pricing. Focusing on Portland and Oregon wedding photography.
Table of Contents:
Intimate Wedding Reception Photos in Portland, Oregon
1. What’s the Average Cost of a Wedding Photographer?
One of the first big questions couples ask when planning their wedding is, "How much does a wedding photographer cost?" While prices vary depending on experience, location, and coverage time, a professional wedding photographer typically charges between $2,500 and $15,000.
In Oregon, especially in cities like Portland, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000 for a seasoned wedding photographer who offers full-day coverage and quality service.
2. Wedding Photography Pricing Tiers
Understanding different pricing levels can help you decide what fits your wedding budget:
Budget Photographers ($500 – $2,500)
Usually beginner photographers or those with limited wedding experience.
May not include full-day coverage or high-end editing.
Often don’t provide backup systems or second shooters.
There are a lot of learning curves to weddings. Photographers in this price range may run into situations they aren’t prepared for.
Mid-Range Photographers ($2,500 – $6,000)
Mid to Extensive experienced wedding photographers with excellent artistic storytelling.
Full-day coverage, timeline assistance, and professionally edited images.
Often includes an engagement session and access to online galleries.
Luxury Photographers ($6,000 – $15,000+)
Highly sought-after professionals with extensive experience working in the luxury space.
Full-day or multi-day coverage, second shooters, high-end albums, and custom packages.
Exceptional customer service and seamless wedding day experience.
3. What’s Included in Wedding Photography Packages?
Photographers structure their packages differently, but many include:
✔️ Full-Day or Partial Coverage – Hours of photography coverage based on your needs. ✔️ Second Shooter – Some packages include one, while others charge extra. ✔️ Engagement Session – A great way to get comfortable in front of the camera before the big day. ✔️ Professional Editing – High-quality retouching and color correction. ✔️ Online Gallery & Print Rights – Digital access to your photos for easy sharing and printing. ✔️ Albums & Prints – Some packages come with heirloom albums or prints.
To someone unfamiliar with wedding photography, you may wonder - how are you charging that much for one day? One thing to keep in mind is photographers are often working with their couples for months. Leading up to the wedding day, helping with timelines, outfits and whatever support you need. Hours of culling, editing and uploading photos after the fact are all calculated into the total price of your package.
4. Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the package price, there are some extra costs couples should keep in mind:
Second Shooter ($50 - $150 per hour) – Some photographers include one, while others charge extra.
Travel Fees – If your wedding is outside the photographer’s service area, travel and lodging costs may apply.
Albums & Prints – Many photographers offer professional printing options at an additional cost.
Oregon Winery Wedding at Sweet Cheeks Wedding Venue.
5. Portland & Oregon Wedding Photographer Pricing
For couples getting married in Oregon, wedding photography costs can vary by location and venue. Some of the most popular Oregon wedding venues (And personal favorites) include:
Sage and Social Event Venue – A modern, stylish space perfect for modern weddings. Check out this Blog.
Sweet Cheeks Wedding Venue – A romantic vineyard setting with breathtaking views. Check out this Blog.
Château de Lis – A French-inspired estate for elegant celebrations.
Loloma Lodge – A dreamy forest retreat for nature-loving couples.
If you’re planning a wedding in Portland, expect to pay $3,000 to $7,000 for an experienced photographer who understands the city’s best locations, lighting, and scenery.
6. Why Investing in a Professional Photographer is Worth It
Photography is one of the few wedding expenses that actually grows in value over time. Years from now, your wedding photos will be the only way to relive all the details of your day long after the memories get hazy. The photos become family heirlooms and precious to family members for years to come.
Many couples say their biggest regret is not investing in a professional photographer. Here’s why experience matters:
📸 Anticipating Sentimental Moments – With 10+ years of experience, I know how to capture the emotional moments that you’ll want to remember forever. 📸 Creating a Stress-Free Timeline – I help plan timelines to avoid rushed photos and ensure a smooth, relaxed wedding day. I’ve been to A LOT of weddings at this point and know the pain points to account for in a wedding day. 📸 Backup Systems & Reliability – Professional photographers have backup cameras, memory cards, and storage solutions to protect your previous photos.
7. Start Planning Your Wedding Photography
Choosing a wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during the planning process. It is often the person you spend the most time with (Yes, even over your future spouse). It’s so important to find someone who’s energy is a good fit to yours and who is invested in making your day the best experience possible. If you’re looking for a photographer who will make your day stress-free and capture all the moments that matter most, I’d love to chat!
Fill out my contact form here to start planning your wedding photography today!
