I’m kicking off the Choosing a Wedding Photographer Series with talking about a very important aspect for most people: pricing.

Photography is a huge part of your wedding day, in fact, it’s the only thing you get to keep from the whole day! This means investing in the right photographer for you should be a top priority.

If you’ve done any research yet, you may find several options of photographers with similar styles and packages, but vastly different prices. How do you know how much to spend and who to spend it on? In this post, I’ll tell you the main reasons a photographer may charge higher prices and why they might be the better choice for you.

01. Greater Years of Experience

A new photographer typically charges lower than a seasoned photographer. (Of course, this isn’t always the case, but usually).

There are many incredibly talented photographers to choose from, but talent doesn’t equal knowing what to do during a wedding day emergency. By repetition of seeing many different types of wedding days, you learn the general flow, how to make up time if things get behind and how to choose great portrait locations on the fly!

02. Camera Gear

I am a big believer that camera gear does not equal a great photographer, but having certain key pieces is very important. Some of the pieces I believe are essential: an extra camera as back up (3 if you have a second shooter), a lens that can capture large groups, a lens that can capture great portraits, a zoom lens that can capture expressions during the ceremony and a flash system.

Note: if someone has enough money to buy all these items right away but doesn’t have the experience to use them properly, the gear won’t really matter.

03. Their Bridal Experience

This is something you may not have heard of before, but it’s super important! Maybe you’re thinking, I just want a photographer who takes good photos, and that’s it. But a photographer who not only gets great images, but also provides a great experience for you and your fiancé is the way to go.

I’ll give you a little peak into the #MHbride experience to give you an idea. Every bride that books with me receives a welcome box (this is brand new and I’m so excited!) that includes a bridal planning magazine designed by me with alllll the info you need to know to plan a photo-friendly wedding day! Each couple also gets planning guides sent to their email in regards to timelines, choosing engagement outfits and first look information. During their engagement session, I teach them the posing process to help them become comfortable in front of the camera (not just “go be cute”) and I work to deliver their images as quickly as possible.

I get to know my clients so that I can serve them best on their wedding day! Many photographers are beginning to provide a bridal experience and I’m finding it’s a game changer!

Disclaimer: it’s possible for a photographer to simply way under or over price themselves and not properly fit into these categories. Be sure to schedule a phone call and ask some questions before booking!