Why is it so expensive?

Wedding photography is so much more than one day with a camera. In this post, I’m sharing a personal look at what goes into creating your gallery. From the 8-10 hours I spend documenting your day, to the 75+ hours I spend editing it with care.


If you’ve ever wondered what you're really investing in when you book a photographer, this one’s for you.


When couples ask about my pricing, I never take it personally.


I understand. Wedding budgets are full, and photography is just one of many decisions on your list. But here’s the thing: you’re not just hiring someone to show up with a camera. You’re inviting someone into one of the most intimate, emotionally charged, and beautifully fleeting days of your life.


So I wanted to take a moment to share what you’re really investing in, because I believe that transparency builds trust. I want you to know what goes into creating the images that will live on long after the day is done.


1. It Starts Long Before the Shutter Clicks


Before I even lift my camera on your wedding day, I’ve already spent hours getting to know you, guiding your timeline, and preparing your custom experience.


From our first call to the morning of your wedding, I’m thinking about the lighting, your venue’s layout, the best angles for portraits, and how to document your story in a way that feels effortless, natural, and deeply you. I take a deep look at your Pinterest board to understand your vision for your wedding day, and to make sure I capture the things that are truly important to you. Some couples ask me to focus on guests, others ask me to have my camera aimed at them most of the time. Every couple is different and I want to make sure I understand each couple's priorities.


All of my Full Day Wedding couples also receives a Wedding Guide. A beautifully designed digital magazine filled with the kind of insight and thoughtful advice that only comes from years in the industry. From timelines to lighting, getting-ready tips to family photo lists, it's packed with tools to help you feel prepared and at ease.


Because when you feel calm, the photos feel effortless.


2. The Wedding Day Itself, of course


Most weddings I photograph range from 8 to 10 hours of coverage. But I’m not just clocking in and out. I’m fully present. Reading the room. Watching for emotion. Capturing laughter you didn’t even hear, Documenting moments you didn't even know happened and glances you didn’t even notice.


I photograph:


The quiet anticipation of getting ready

The moment your dad sees you for the first time

The golden light catching your veil just right

Your best friend’s tear during the vows

Your aunt’s laugh at speeches

The way your guests light up the dance floor

These are the images that breathe life into your gallery.


3. What Happens After the Wedding


This is the part most people never see, but it’s where the magic truly comes together.


Once your wedding is over, I begin the process of hand-selecting, colour-correcting, and artistically editing each photo in your gallery. On average, I spend 70–75 hours editing each full wedding. That’s an entire week, dedicated solely to your story. While I don’t do heavy Photoshop manipulations, I always take time to gently refine your images like softening or removing temporary skin imperfections and background distractions like wall plugs, cars, signage, and anything else that pulls attention away from the moment. The result? Clean, timeless images that feel beautifully true to your day. Just a little more polished.


Every image is backed up twice to different external drives and I don't clear the memory card until your full gallery has been delivered. I have invested in a backup camera (because technology can never be trusted), professional lenses, and many other gear items, because I believe your wedding deserves the same level of security and care as any once-in-a-lifetime event.


I don’t outsource editing or trust AI to do anything for me because I believe that photography is art. Every choice I make in post-production reflects the mood, the emotion, and the tone of your day. It’s personal. I want your images to feel like you. Timeless, true-to-colour, and full of emotion. Even those imperfect moments that AI wouldn't approve of keeping.


4. No Hidden Fees, No Surprises


I don’t charge extra for local travel, because I believe your investment should be simple and clear. I want you to focus on the experience, not the fine print.

 

5. So, Why Does It Cost What It Costs?


Because I’m not just giving you photos.

I’m giving you peace of mind.

Presence.

A calm, steady hand.

A storyteller who cares deeply about every frame.

And long after the food is eaten, the flowers have faded, and your dress is packed away, your gallery will remain. As beautiful and full of life as the day you said "I do."


Final Thoughts


Whether you’re planning a luxurious full-day celebration or an intimate elopement under the stars, your story deserves to be told with care. And that’s what you’re truly investing in. Not just pictures, but how you’ll remember the moments that matter most.


If you’ve made it this far, thank you for being curious about the process. I hope this gave you a little glimpse into the heart behind the work.


As always, I’m here if you have questions. No pressure, no hard sell. Just a deep love for what I do, and a commitment to telling your story beautifully.