Wedding Photography Cost Calculator
Calculate wedding photography package pricing including coverage hours, overtime rates, second shooter additions, engagement sessions, and heirloom print albums.
Calculation Results
Photography Package Total Formula
Total Photography Cost = Base Package + (Additional Hours * Hourly Rate) + Second Shooter + Engagement Shoot + Printed Album + Travel Fees- Base Package: Standard 6, 8, or 10 hours of day-of coverage with digital editing and high-resolution online gallery.
- Overtime Hourly Rates: Extra coverage for early morning hair prep or late-night send-offs ($300-$500/hr).
- Second Shooter Addon: Secondary photojournalist to capture partner prep, ceremony angles, and cocktail candids ($500-$900).
- Ancillary Deliverables: Engagement photo session ($400-$800) and leather-bound heirloom album ($600-$1,500).
Step-by-Step Worked Example
Calculation Steps:
- Overtime Charges: 2 hours * $350 = $700
- Total Coverage Hours: 8 + 2 = 10 hours
- Addons Subtotal: $600 + $450 + $700 = $1,750
- Total Photography Cost: $3,200 + $700 + $1,750 = $5,650
- Effective Hourly Rate: $5,650 / 10 = $565/hour
How to Use This Calculator
- 1Enter the base package quote and total hours included.
- 2Add any extra coverage hours required to document morning preparation or late exits.
- 3Toggle a second photographer add-on and include engagement sessions or printed album deliverables.
Assumptions & Limitations
- Base package includes professional color grading and full personal printing reproduction rights.
- Heirloom album reflects standard 20-30 page custom leather or linen flush-mount album.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we really need a second photographer?
A second photographer is highly recommended for weddings with more than 100 guests or weddings where partners get ready at different locations. One shooter captures the bride walking down the aisle while the second captures the groom’s reaction.
How many hours of wedding photography coverage do we need?
Most weddings require 8 to 10 hours: 2 hours for getting ready and first look, 1 hour for ceremony and family portraits, 1 hour for cocktail hour portraits, and 4 to 5 hours for dinner, speeches, and dancing.
When should we expect our wedding photos back?
Professional wedding photographers typically deliver the full digital gallery within 6 to 12 weeks during peak wedding season, though sneak peeks are often provided within 48 to 72 hours.
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