You and your significant other have found a few photographers you like for your wedding, but you’re unsure if you can trust their prices. Maybe their photos look stunning, but the cost seems high. So how do you know if they’re the right fit for you and your budget? Don’t worry—it’s easier to figure out than you might think.

Understanding Wedding Photography Costs in St. Louis

In 2024, the average cost of a two-hour wedding photoshoot in St. Louis is around $1,256. A one-hour session typically costs $785, while a four-hour shoot averages $2,500 and $4,500. You might find photographers who charge less, but it’s essential to ask why. If these prices represent the average, lower costs might indicate that the photographer hasn’t invested much in their business, gear, or systems.

These prices align with broader national trends, where wedding photography costs typically range from $2,500 to $6,000, with some variance based on location and photographer expertise​(Fash,zola.com).

What Does This Mean for You?

Good question. Are you okay with hiring a photographer who is just starting out? While they might offer a lower price, you could be sacrificing quality, experience, or reliability. Setting a realistic budget based on these averages will help you find a photographer who matches your expectations in terms of both style and professionalism.

Get Started: Some Amazing St. Louis Photographers

To help you on your journey, here are a few incredible photographers in the St. Louis area:

• Cassidy Parker Smith Photography
• McKinley G Photography
• Mike Cassimatis Photography
• Emily Broadbent Photography
• Derek Coffman Photography

Remember, photography, along with your dress and videography, are the key elements that will live on long after your wedding day. While you can get creative with pressing flowers or preserving other memories, your photos are what you’ll look back on to relive the magic of your wedding day.

Consider Your Style and Needs

Once you’ve set a budget, think about the style of photos you want and how much you’re willing to pay for it. Do you need the photographer for just a few hours, or do you want them to capture the entire day? Also, consider when you need to book them. While 9-10 months in advance is usually sufficient, if you’re paying a premium for a highly sought-after professional, booking at least a year ahead is wise.

You need to figure out what style of photos you want, and how much you are willing to pay for that certain style or extra benefits offered.

Evaluating Your Final Choice

With all these factors in mind, reflect on your final choice. Are you comfortable with their pricing? Does their style match what you envision for your wedding? Will they be available for the entire day, or just a few hours? Are there any extras included that sweeten the deal? If you can answer these questions positively, then congratulations—you’ve found your perfect photographer!

Next comes the harder part, fitting your photographer budget with the budget of the rest of your wedding.

Budgeting Beyond Photography

Now comes the next challenge: fitting your photography budget into the overall wedding budget.

Venue Selection

In St. Louis, you have a wealth of beautiful venues to choose from. Depending on the style of photos you want, you might prefer a location with ample natural light or one that reflects your and your partner’s personalities. Make sure to choose a venue that complements your vision and is suitable for the type of photography you want.

Food and Drink

Next, consider food and drinks, including alcohol for the adults and non-alcoholic options for younger guests. Don’t forget the cake, which can be a significant part of your food budget. If there are children attending, you might want to choose a more family-friendly menu. However, if it’s an adults-only affair, you can opt for something more sophisticated.

Entertainment and Music

A DJ can elevate the atmosphere of your wedding, so it’s important to find one who fits your style and budget. If you and your partner have a special song, make sure the DJ knows to play it during your first dance or at another significant moment.

Ceremony Officiant

Finally, consider who will officiate your wedding. Whether it’s a priest, rabbi, minister, or another officiant, choosing someone who aligns with your beliefs is crucial. Your religious or cultural background may also influence your food, drinks, and venue choice, especially if the ceremony takes place in a place of worship.

Ready to Plan Your Perfect Wedding?

Once you’ve sorted out all these details, you’ll be well on your way to planning the perfect wedding. Remember, it’s all about finding the right balance between your dreams and your budget, and with the right planning, you can have the wedding day you’ve always imagined.