How To Save Money On Wedding Photography In 2025
If you want a few ideas on how to save money on wedding photography, you’re in the right place!
I reached out to our wedding planning group and asked couples what tips they had for saving money when it comes to wedding photos.
Plus…I have been a wedding photographer for over 14 years, so I also give my thoughts and tips.
I hope some of these money-saving ideas help.
1. Check Local Wedding Groups and Platforms
- Facebook wedding planning groups or platforms like Thumbtack can be a great resource for finding budget-friendly photographers. You can also post your budget and requirements to see who responds.
- Post a detailed request in local wedding groups, specifying your budget and needs.
- Search platforms like Thumbtack and WeddingWire for photographers running specials or promotions.
- Consider those who do photography part-time or as a side gig for more flexibility in pricing.
Real Bride Tip: “I posted the following in my local Facebook wedding group:
I’m getting married on MM/DD/2024 in City/State. I am looking for a photographer who does this style and can provide this, this, and this (just put what you’re looking for). My max budget is $(your budget).
If you are available and can work with me for this budget, please send me an email at [email protected]. Thank you!
I used a wedding email and not my personal email so I was not worried about posting the email address in the group (I highly recommend getting a free wedding email through Gmail or where you like having your email. That was the first thing I did and it was a great decision.
The reason why I liked having them email me was because then you get to see their communication style (how much detail they include), and a link to their website. Sometimes if you just ask vendors who is available, they just respond in the group with “I’m available” and then you have to play the back and forth game. I like them sending me the info directly.”
-Megan A.
2. Limit the Hours of Coverage
- Instead of hiring a photographer for the entire day, consider focusing coverage on the most important parts, such as the ceremony, family portraits, and a few key reception moments.
- Schedule important events like cake-cutting and special dances at the beginning of the reception.
- Focus on having your photographer present for just a few key hours (e.g., 3-4 hours).
- Skip less essential moments like getting-ready pictures and reception dance floor photos, or ask family and friends to take candid shots.
3. Look for Courthouse or Small-Event Photographers
- Photographers who specialize in courthouse weddings or micro weddings often have more affordable rates. They typically have more flexibility when it comes to only hiring them for a few hours.
- Ask them if they offer full-day coverage and compare prices.
- Inquire if they are willing to adjust packages to match your budget.
- Consider hiring them for a few hours to capture key moments instead of the entire day.
4. Skip the Engagement Session
- Engagement sessions are great for getting to know your photographer, but they aren’t essential. Skipping this can save you a few hundred dollars.
- Have a friend or family member take some engagement photos for you…or DIY them.
- Many photographers will offer a discount if you remove the engagement session (just ask)
5. Negotiate a Custom Package
- Don’t be afraid to negotiate your budget with potential photographers. Many are willing to work with you if you communicate your needs clearly.
- Set a firm budget and communicate this early on.
- Ask photographers if they can offer a smaller, custom package that fits within your budget.
- Be prepared to hear “no,” but don’t let it discourage you…many photographers will work with you (better chance if your wedding is not in peak wedding season)
6. Choose Off-Peak Wedding Dates
- Getting married in the off-season or on a weekday can result in big savings since photographers often charge less during these times.
- Schedule your wedding during less popular months (like winter or early spring).
- Consider a weekday wedding when photographers might have more availability and offer discounts.
- Ask photographers directly if they have special rates for off-peak weddings.
Related blog post: How to pick a wedding date
7. Book Early for Discounts
- Many photographers offer discounts for early bookings, especially if your wedding is months in advance. The sooner you book, the more options you’ll have.
- Start looking for a photographer as soon as you have your date and venue.
- Ask photographers if they offer early booking discounts.
Real Bride Tip: “My friend is a wedding photographer and every wedding season she starts at a much lower price than she ends at.
She books 25 wedings per year. The first 5 bookings are at $2,000. The next 5 are at $2,200. The next 5 are at $2,500. The next 5 are at $2,800. The final 5 are at $3,100.
She said she does this to ensure that she books out her season. Those first 10 bookings come pretty easy because they are lower priced. And then she is not as worried as booking those final higher priced dates.”
-Rebecca R.
8. Cut Out The Extras And Go Digital Only
- Physical albums and prints through the photographer can significantly increase your photography costs. Ask for a package that includes only digital files…then you can handle printing and albums/photo books later.
- Print your photos later using online printing services like Mpix, Costco, or Canva.
- Create your own wedding album or photo book with free Canva templates.
9. Ask Your Friends and Family To Take Candid Photos
- Hire a photographer only for the ceremony and portraits to save money on extra hours.
- Create table cards with fun photo prompts for your guests like:
- “Take a selfie with the bride/groom.”
- “Snap a group shot of your table.”
- “Capture your favorite decoration.”
- Ask guests to text the photos directly to you using the cell number on the cards you put on the tables.
- Bridal party candids: Have your bridal party take photos while getting ready and send them to you.
- Social media moment: During the ceremony, give guests 30-60 seconds to take photos or selfies and remind them to text them to you.
- To get even more photos, put a disposable camera or two on each table and ask guests to fill them up.
- Bonus tip: Encourage guests to take short videos and send them your way for even more fun memories.
This approach saves money and gives you unique, candid moments captured by loved ones!
From me (A wedding photographer): “When my wife and I got married, we hired a professional wedding photographer. The photos were really nice. He captured the day as most pros would.
But our favorite photos came from friends and family members. They took so many fun candids throughout the day.
I am glad that we hired a professional, but if I had to do it again, I would look for someone less expensive who could photograph the posed family photos, portraits, and ceremony.
I would be more than fine with candids from our guests for the rest of the day.”
-Thomas B
10. Check With Local Colleges
Hiring a photography student from a local college is a smart way to save money on wedding photography while still getting beautiful photos.
Why It’s a Great Way to Save Money:
- Lower cost: Photography students are often willing to charge much less than professional photographers since they are building their portfolio.
- Fresh creativity: Students bring new ideas and styles, which can result in unique and creative shots for your wedding.
- Passion for learning: Students are typically eager to learn and will go above and beyond to do the job right. That’s how I was when I first started photographing weddings.
Tips for Finding a Student Photographer:
- Contact local colleges: Reach out to the art or photography department at a college near you and ask if they have any students interested in photographing events.
- Check online portfolios: Many students post their work online, so look for student photographers on social media platforms like Instagram/TikTok.
- Join local groups: Check Facebook groups or community boards where local students may advertise their services.
- Ask for recommendations: You might find a great photographer by asking friends or family who attend local colleges or by checking with wedding vendors who work with student photographers.
By hiring a college student, you can save money and still get professional-quality photos that look amazing!
More Wedding Planning Tips and Ideas
I hope some of those ideas help you save money on your wedding photography.
Here are a few more blog posts that you might find helpful when planning your wedding:
