What is included in a wedding photography package?

There are so many photographers out there and they all offer different things. Here's what you can expect to see as part of wedding photography packages.

What is included in wedding photography packages?

Most wedding photography packages include a combination of the following elements:

1. Photography coverage on the day

The duration of one photographer taking photographs on your wedding day. Often, the package details "up to 6 hours", or "up to 8 hours", or "from ceremony until the speeches". The length of time of the photographer taking photographs obviously affects the price of the package.

2. A second photographer

Some wedding photographers offer the option to hire a second photographer. Most wedding photographers assume the second photographer will be there for the same length of time as the main photographer.

3. A pre-wedding photo session

It may include a pre-wedding photo session. This is a session that takes place months before the wedding. Some people also call it an engagement photo shoot. It's like a play shoot where you can get to know your photographer, and they get to know you. More INFO ABOUT PRE-SHOOTS on this page.

4. A USB stick

The package might include a USB memory stick with the edited photographs in high resolution (this means you can use the images to make your own prints or albums online, using the suppliers you choose).

5. A certain number of digital photographs

The package should say how many photographs you can expect to receive after your wedding.

6. A certain number of prints

Traditionally, photographers would include a selection of prints (6"x4", or 7"x5", or a large one for the wall, but not many photographers do that these days).

7. An online Gallery

Most photographers will give you access to your own password-protected online gallery, so you can share the photos with family and friends. Often this gallery allows you and your relatives to purchase individual prints at prices set by the photographer.

8. A wedding album

It might include a wedding album. This is also difficult to compare, as there are so many album suppliers out there. Check out the ARTICLE ABOUT WEDDING ALBUMS I wrote here.

9. A large frame or canvas

It might include one framed wedding photograph or a canvas print for your wall. It should say the size of the frame or canvas (or other product), and when you can expect to receive it.

10. A preview album

It might include a preview album which is a photo book showing all edited photographs printed in an inexpensive book. This is not a wedding album.

11. A video with the best photos

The photographer might create a little video with music showing the best photos of your wedding.

12. The price / deposits

The package should detail all the elements that are part of the photographer's service. It should show a price, either including or excluding VAT. It should also spell out clearly how much of a deposit is required to secure the booking, and when the payment for the full package price is due. This varies from country to country. Here in Scotland, it is common to have all the fees paid approximately one month to 2 weeks before the wedding.

The photographer should also let you know what payment methods they accept, such as BACS (bank transfer), cheque, card payments and so on.

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