Hey there, Sweety! I’m Victoria, the photographer behind Stories by Victoria, and I know that wedding planning can get pretty overwhelming—especially when it comes to budgeting. Today, I’m jumping into a question I get asked all the time—“How much does a wedding photographer cost in NYC?”
I’ll let you know the average price of wedding photographer, so you can feel confident about what you’re investing in when you book your wedding photographer here in the city that will give you an eye-catching wedding photos on your special day.
To begin, let’s tackle the elephant in the room: wedding photography costs can vary a lot. You might come across photographers who charge $1,000, and others who charge over $10,000. It’s a huge range, and it’s natural to wonder, “Why such a difference?” Well, a few key factors affect the pricing, like the photographer’s experience, style, package inclusions, and even the location of your wedding.
Wondering the average cost of wedding photographer? If we’re talking averages, many couples in NYC spend between $2,500 and $50,000 on a wedding photographer. This price typically includes a set number of hours (say, 6 to 10), an online gallery, and high-resolution edited images. It’s important to remember that these are averages, though—there are few photographers offer budget packages for smaller weddings or elopements, while others have trendy and luxury packages for full weekend weddings.
To understand the value of the answer to your question “how much does a wedding photographer cost in NYC”, Here’s a breakdown of what you’re really paying for with your wedding photography package:
It’s not just the full time photographer’s hours spent capturing your big day. There’s also time spent on consultations, travel, setup, and breakdown, which add up to more than you might think. Plus, when the celebration ends, we put in hours (sometimes even days) enhancing the images we took to make sure they’re picture-perfect.
Experienced photographers are at home in NYC, from newcomers just starting out to seasoned pros who’ve shot hundreds of weddings. With experience comes skill—and peace of mind for you! Experienced wedding photographers are great at handling unexpected challenges, capturing all those fleeting moments, and making sure you feel comfortable in front of the camera.
Professional camera gear is no joke! High-quality cameras, lenses, and lighting equipment are essential for capturing stunning images, especially in different lighting conditions. New York wedding photographer prices are reflected in their investments. There are also software, subscriptions, and backup systems we use to ensure your photos are safe.
I love the process of editing—it’s when the magic really happens! I spend hours carefully curating and enhancing each image, from color correction to detailed retouching. This part of the job isn’t always seen but is crucial to delivering a beautiful gallery you’ll cherish for years.
Album or prints, can add to the cost. Many photographers offer customized albums that showcase your favorite moments in a beautiful, tangible way. Albums are usually an add-on, and they’re a great keepsake if you’re looking for something extra special.
Let’s dive into what to expect from different New York wedding photographer prices. Remember, these are general ideas, so the price ranges may vary from one photographer to another.
This is the budget range and is perfect if you’re planning an intimate ceremony or elopement. Photographers at this price point might be newer to the industry but can still capture beautiful moments. You may not get as many hours, and packages will be more basic with fewer add-ons.
This is a pretty common range for New York wedding photographers. Here, you can expect a professional photographer with a solid portfolio, an engagement session, and around 6 to 8 hours of coverage. This is ideal for couples who want the whole ceremony, some portrait time, and a good part of the reception covered.
If you’re going for a higher-end experience, this range might be for you. Photographers in this bracket typically offer 8 to 10+ hours of coverage, second shooters, and extensive editing. Many will also include engagement sessions, albums, and other extras.
This is the luxury level, with photographers who are industry leaders and have years of experience. If you’re planning a multi-day event or have a destination wedding, you’ll likely find yourself in this range. You’re not just paying for photos; you’re paying for an experience, and these photographers often include premium albums, multiple shooters, and even videography in their packages.
Here are a few things to consider on how to decide which photographer is right for you and to have an intimate couple photoshoot:
If you love candid shots, or prefer more posed and styled images, make sure to review each photographer’s portfolio to get a sense of their style. Personally, I focus on candid, natural moments—capturing the laughs, the tears, and everything in between.
It’s super important to vibe with your photographer! You’ll be spending a lot of time with us on your wedding day, so make sure you feel comfortable. A quick phone call or an in-person chat can help you figure out if you and the photographer click.
Think about what’s most important to you. Is it having a stunning album? A highlight reel of all the best moments? Decide on your non-negotiables and see which photographers can offer those within your budget.
I always encourage couples to check out reviews! It’s a great way to hear about other people’s experiences and see if a photographer is reliable, professional, and a joy to work with.
When you book with Stories by Victoria, a Hudson Valley wedding photographer, you’re getting more than just photos—you’re getting a storyteller who is committed to capturing every moment with care. About me, I pride myself on building genuine relationships with my clients, so you feel totally at ease in front of the camera with an intimate couple photoshoot. I focus on crafting a visual story of your wedding day, so each image feels authentic, filled with love, and uniquely You.
My wedding packages start around $5,800, which includes 8 hours of coverage, an online gallery, and a complimentary engagement session. I also offer add-ons like albums, prints, and second shooters, so you can customize your package based on what’s important to you. My pricing is surely based on New York wedding photographer prices.
When planning your wedding budget, remember that photography is an investment with the best wedding photographer that brings intimate couple photoshoot. Long after the cake is eaten, the flowers have wilted, and the last dance has ended, your photos will be there to remind you of every unforgettable memories. While it might feel like a big expense, consider the priceless memories you’re capturing.
So, whether you’re planning a weekend wedding in the Hudson Valley, an elopement in the heart of Manhattan, intimate gathering in Brooklyn, or want to have a Hudson Valley wedding photography style, it’s my pleasure to help you capture it all. Contact me and let’s talk about it and make your wedding day memories as beautiful as they deserve to be!
Check out my blog where I share stories, tips, and highlights from weddings across the Hudson Valley and beyond!
I support BLM & LGBTQ+
Stories by Victoria © 2021-2022 | All rights reserved | Design by Kat Cosma
Based in Upstate New York and capturing love stories across New Jersey, New York, and beyond. Let’s create something beautiful together.