This is an impossible question to pose since everyone's situation is different and some people simply don't have much of a budget. If a couple has been doing their due diligence in wedding research, they've probably come across numerous sources telling them "Cut corners and costs anywhere you can, but NOT on your photographer!" As a member of the object of that statement, I'm flattered, but everyone's budget has to be set with a ratio of what percentage will be spent on each thing. There's no sense in spending $3,000 of a $3,500 budget on your photographer if you can't pull the wedding together with the remainder. I do still agree with the statement, but I feel that more and more, as time progresses, it applied to a couple being judicious about the true quality and professionalism of their photographer and not being fooled by the first option that comes along that fits into their narrow budget. If your budget is $1,500 or less, there are certainly some options that are much better than others and, as I touched on, perceived value goes both ways. Some people raise their prices to hide the fact that their work is subpar and some brides with larger budgets may pass over excellent photographers simply because they charge less than what the maximum amount they can afford is. There's no guarantee that spending as much money as you possibly can assures that you've found your best option. Use Facebook and your friends to identify photographers who may fit into your budget either because they are earlier in their career than some or because they are willing to create a "skeleton" package that will fulfill your wedding day needs without added cost for things that can wait.

 

Bill Gates drives a Honda Accord! (allegedly)

 

You're welcome to reprint or repost this article on your website, blog or e-newsletter free of charge, provided that you don't change the article in any way and you include the byline "Authored by Brendon Pinola Photography" with the appropriate hyperlink to my website. In doing so you agree to indemnify Brendon Pinola Photography and it's directors, officers, employees and agents from and against all losses, claims, damages and liabilities that arise our of their use.

 

::about the author::

Brendon is a photographer in the Birmingham area, available worldwide for nearly any project or event. Visit his main website (linked below) to see his portfolio, resume, bio or to get in contact. Add this blog to your RSS feed and "like" his Facebook Fan page to receive fresh photos and content. 

Brendon Pinola Photography 2013

American Pictoralist  |  Storyteller