Planning a wedding comes with countless decisions, and one of the most important is choosing the right wedding photography package. Your wedding photos will be the lasting memories of your big day, so understanding what’s included—and how to choose the right package—is essential.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about wedding photography packages, from what they typically include, how much they cost, and how to pick the one that suits your style, needs, and budget.

What Is a Wedding Photography Package?

A wedding photography package is a bundled service that outlines what a photographer offers for a set price. Packages often vary based on coverage hours, the number of photographers, included deliverables, and extra services such as engagement sessions or albums.

Typical inclusions:

• Coverage duration (in hours)

• A set number of edited images

• Online gallery or USB delivery

• Pre-wedding consultation

• Travel within a certain area

Types of Wedding Photography Packages

Wedding photographers usually offer a tiered pricing structure, often labeled as Basic, Standard, or Premium packages.

Basic Package

Ideal for small weddings, elopements, or couples on a budget.
Includes:

• 3 to 6 hours of coverage

• One photographer

• 100–300 edited images

• Digital gallery

Standard Package

Great for traditional weddings that need full-day coverage.
Includes:

• 8 to 10 hours of coverage

• One or two photographers

• 300–600 edited images

• Online gallery + USB

• Pre-wedding consultation

• Optional engagement session

Premium or Luxury Package

Designed for large or multi-day weddings with full storytelling.
Includes:

• Full-day or multi-day coverage

• Two photographers

• 600+ edited images

• Custom wedding album

• Prints or framed images

• Drone coverage or add-ons

Average Pricing for Wedding Photography Packages

Prices can vary greatly based on location, experience, and inclusions. Here’s a general guide:

In regions with a high cost of living or in-demand photographers, prices may exceed these ranges.

What to Look for in a Package

When reviewing wedding photography packages, don’t just compare prices. Look closely at the following:

Coverage Hours

Will the photographer be there for the full day? Can they capture both “getting ready” and the reception?

Second Shooter

A second photographer means more angles, more candid moments, and better coverage during overlapping events (like cocktail hour and couple portraits).

Editing & Delivery

• How many final edited images will you receive?

• Are high-resolution files included?

• What’s the delivery time?

• Will you receive sneak peeks?

Prints and Albums

Some packages include physical products like albums, prints, or canvases. Others are digital-only. Consider what you value most.

Add-Ons

Check if the photographer offers optional extras like:

• Drone photography

• Engagement sessions

• Same-day edits

• Custom wedding albums

• Extended hours

Questions to Ask Before Booking

1. What’s included in your standard wedding photography package?

2. Can I customize a package to suit my needs?

3. How many images will I receive, and are they edited?

4. Do you charge extra for travel?

5. How do you back up images and ensure nothing is lost?

6. Can I see a full wedding gallery, not just highlight reels?

7. What’s your turnaround time for delivering the final gallery?

When to Book Your Photographer

Wedding photographers—especially popular ones—can book up 12 to 18 months in advance. The earlier you book, the more options you’ll have and the more likely you’ll lock in current pricing before annual increases.

How to Choose the Right Package for You

Start by asking these questions:

• How many hours of coverage do we really need?

• Do we want an album, or just digital files?

• Is it important to have two photographers?

• What’s our photography budget?

• Do we prefer posed shots, candid storytelling, or a blend?

Once you know what matters most, compare packages and focus on value, not just cost.

Benefits of Bundling Photography with Other Services

Many photographers now offer wedding photography and videography packages, which can save you time and money. Benefits include:

• Coordinated style and workflow

• Easier communication and planning

• Discounted bundled pricing

• One unified team capturing your full story

If you want a consistent visual style across your wedding media, this option is worth exploring.

Customizing Your Package

Don’t be afraid to ask for adjustments. Photographers are often willing to:

• Swap engagement sessions for extra hours

• Offer payment plans

• Remove certain features to meet your budget

• Provide add-on options later if you change your mind

Flexibility is a sign of a professional photographer who cares about your experience.

Conclusion: Invest in the Memories That Last

Choosing from different wedding photography packages doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by understanding your needs, setting a realistic budget, and asking the right questions. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, there’s a package out there that can perfectly capture your love story.

Remember—your wedding photos are the one investment from your big day that only grows in value over time. Choose wisely, and you’ll have timeless memories to relive forever.