Planning your wedding comes with a long list of decisions, and setting a budget for your photographer is one of the most important ones. Your wedding photos will be the lasting memories of your day—capturing the love, emotions, and little details you’ve spent months planning.


Wedding photography costs vary depending on location, experience, and coverage. On average, couples spend between 10-20% of their total wedding budget on photography. In Iowa, where I specialize in wedding and senior photography, professional wedding photographers typically range from $2,500 to $6,000. So how much should you spend? Here’s a guide to help you determine a wedding photography budget that's right for you.


1. Understand the Value of Wedding Photography

Before setting a number, consider what wedding photography means to you. Unlike flowers or décor, your photos last a lifetime, allowing you to relive your special day for years to come. A great photographer doesn’t just take pictures; they tell your story, capture genuine emotions, and ensure you feel comfortable in front of the camera.

If photography is a priority for you, it’s worth allocating a reasonable portion of your budget to hire someone whose style and experience align with your vision.


2. Decide on Your Must-Haves

Every couple has different priorities, so think about what’s most important to you:

  • Full-day coverage vs. partial coverage – Do you want photos from getting ready to the last dance, or just the ceremony and portraits?
  • A second shooter – Having two photographers ensures more angles and moments captured, especially for first looks and candid moments.
  • Engagement session – Many photographers include engagement photos, which is a great way to get comfortable in front of the camera before the wedding.
  • Albums and prints – Some packages include professionally designed albums, which are a beautiful way to preserve your memories.

Knowing what you value most will help you choose a package that fits your needs.


3. Research and Compare Photographers

Once you have a budget range, start researching photographers whose style you love. Look at their:

  • Portfolio – Do their images feel natural, emotional, and timeless?
  • Client reviews – What do past couples say about their experience?
  • Package details – What’s included, and do they offer customization?
  • Personality and approach – You’ll spend a lot of time with your photographer on your wedding day, so choose someone who makes you feel comfortable and excited.


4. Think About Long-Term Value

It can be tempting to go with the cheapest option, but wedding photography is an investment. A less experienced or budget photographer may not have the expertise to handle unpredictable lighting, fast-paced wedding timelines, or emotional moments. Investing in a skilled photographer means peace of mind, high-quality images, and a stress-free experience.


5. Possible Additional Costs

Some additional expenses to keep in mind include:

  • Travel fees if your photographer is coming from out of town
  • Overtime fees if your wedding runs longer than expected
  • Prints and albums if not included in your package

Be sure to review contracts carefully so there are no surprises later!


6. Make Your Budget Work for You

If your dream photographer is slightly out of budget, consider adjusting other areas of your wedding spending. Some couples choose to:

  • Cut back on elaborate décor or favors
  • Have a smaller guest list
  • Opt for a weekday or off-season wedding for lower pricing


At the end of the day, your wedding photos are one of the few things that will last long after your wedding. Finding the right photographer who matches your style, personality, and budget will ensure you have beautiful memories to cherish forever.


JRP wedding packages are designed to give you a seamless, stress-free experience, including:

  • Two photographers – Ensuring full coverage of your day, from multiple angles and perspectives.
  • A complimentary engagement session – Helping you feel comfortable in front of the camera before your big day.
  • A detailed wedding guide – Packed with tips to help you plan for the best lighting, timeline, and stress-free experience.
  • In-person consultation – Where we discuss your wedding day priorities, create a well-planned timeline, and ensure no special moments are missed.
  • Years of experience from past weddings – I guide you through what works best for a smooth-flowing day while still capturing genuine, unscripted moments.
  • A perfect blend of posed direction and candid moments – I’ll help you feel natural in front of the camera while capturing the real emotions of the day.


My approach is all about ensuring a well-planned, low-stress wedding day while capturing all the moments—both big and small—that make your love story unique.


Looking for a wedding photographer who captures real, heartfelt moments? Let’s chat about your wedding vision—contact me here!