Tips and Ideas for Saving Money on Wedding Photography

I couldn’t help but wonder, in a world where we can swipe right for love, find the perfect dress with a few taps, and have flowers delivered to our doorstep by drones, why does capturing our wedding day still cost a small fortune? When did saying "I do" become synonymous with "I owe"? And as I reflected on the ever-inflating cost of weddings, one thing became crystal clear: finding an affordable wedding photographer shouldn't feel like searching for a unicorn in a designer dress.

Anne & Carlo Wedding

Weddings are a beautiful paradox—it’s the day we want to go all out because it’s the beginning of forever, yet it’s also the day that can leave our bank accounts reeling before that forever even begins. The dress, the venue, the flowers... they all come with price tags that could make even an influencer think twice before splurging on the latest designer drop. But when it comes to photography and videography, it’s not just about the money; it’s about preserving the moments that matter most. So, how do we balance this desire for beautiful memories with the reality of a wedding budget?

Breauna & Drake Wedding

Packages

First, let’s talk strategy. Just as we wouldn’t go shopping for a wedding dress without a game plan, we shouldn’t approach wedding photography without one either. Start by doing your homework. To kick things off: set your budget and be super clear about it. If you are trying to be savvy - simply look for affordable wedding photography and videography package. Many photographers offer bundled deals that can save you money without compromising on quality. These packages often include both photo and video services, which means you get the best of both worlds without having to coordinate between multiple vendors. Plus, having one team handle both aspects ensures a consistent style and feel throughout your wedding album and video

Take the Risk

Next, think outside the traditional wedding box. We live in a time where creativity is currency, and your wedding is the perfect place to cash in. Consider hiring a wedding videographer who is just starting out. These emerging talents often offer affordable wedding videography services’ rates because they’re building their portfolios. And don’t let the term "emerging" scare you (maybe just a little bit)—just because someone is new to the wedding scene doesn’t mean they lack talent. In fact, they might bring a fresh perspective that seasoned professionals sometimes miss. So, while you’re reviewing portfolios, keep an open mind and don’t be afraid to take a chance on someone with raw potential. We still recommend going with this strategy only as plan C or D, but hey, taking the risk might bring a lot of value, right?

Weekday Wedding?

Another savvy move is to embrace off-peak wedding dates. Getting married on a Sunday, or even a weekday can save you significant money, not just on your venue but also on your photographer and videographer. Many vendors, including photographers, offer discounted rates for non-Saturday weddings. So, if you’re flexible with your date, your wallet might just thank you. Remember, that BigDayMemories has a special bundle package for any non-Saturday wedding.

#FINDYOURLUCKONLINE

And let’s not forget the magic of social media. Instagram, Pinterest, and wedding forums are gold mines for finding hidden gems in the world of affordable wedding photography. Follow hashtags like #affordableweddingphotographer or #budgetwedding and you might stumble upon a talented photographer who’s perfect for your big day but hasn’t yet raised their rates to reflect their growing popularity.

DIY

Lastly, consider DIY elements. While I wouldn’t suggest skipping a professional photographer altogether, you can supplement their work by setting up a photo booth or providing disposable cameras for guests. This not only adds a fun, interactive element to your reception but also captures candid moments from the perspective of your loved ones. After all, those unfiltered, unplanned photos often turn out to be the most cherished memories.

Summary

In the end, finding an affordable wedding photographer doesn’t mean settling for less. It means being resourceful, strategic, and a little adventurous. Weddings, like love, should be about what feels right, not what costs the most. So, whether you’re walking down the aisle in a grand cathedral or exchanging vows in a backyard garden, remember this: the best memories are the ones captured with heart, not just with a hefty price tag.

Lexi & Anthony Wedding