For most couples, professional wedding photos are a must-have. It ensures their big day is documented well and that they’ll have amazing keepsakes to remind them of the event. However, wedding photos can be expensive. Luckily, there are ways to keep the bill manageable. If you want to make sure yours don’t break the bank, here are some tips on how to save money on your wedding photos.
Make a Short List
Before you choose a wedding photo package, spend a little time making a must-have shots list. This helps you figure out what kinds of photographs you even want. Then, you can use that information to help you choose a wedding photo package.
The shots you choose do make a difference. It determines how many sessions the photographer needs to attend, as well as how many prints you’ll ultimately need. Plus, it outlines the complexity of what you’re asking for, which is a big deal.
For example, posed shots take more time than candid ones in most cases, and that matters. If you don’t know what you want, your photographer may spend time collecting additional shots that you would never attend to print, upcoming the cost.
However, if you focus on your must-haves, you can avoid taking or printing any photos you don’t actually want, resulting in a savings. It streamlines the process, reducing the amount of time the photographer has to spend shooting and editing while also reducing the number of prints.
Look for Digital Self-Print Options
Usually, the biggest benefit of hiring a professional photographer is their keen eye, with their editing skills are typically a close second. However, when it comes to printing, that isn’t something you technically need the photographer to handle. You can still get great results using photo printing services, many of which may cost much less than including prints in your package.
Before you choose a photographer, ask about digital copy-only packages – or, at least, find out how much they’ll provide as full-resolution, high-quality digital files – and will agree to a copyright release. With that, you may be able to take care of some of the printing yourself, potentially saving you a bundle.
Sites like Snapfish and Shutterfly frequently offer deals on photo printing. Plus, they support a lot of different options. Along with traditional prints, you can get custom calendars, photo albums, collage posters, and much more.
Be Open About Your Budget
Talking to your wedding photographer about your photo budget may be a bit awkward, but it can be a smart move. If you’re open about what you have to spend, they may be able to work with you to develop a great photo package that aligns with that number.
Professional wedding photographers know what kinds of images couples are usually after, and they can use that knowledge to capture the kind of moments you want without anything extraneous. That can lessen the amount of time they have to spend taking and editing photos, and may bring the cost down to where you need it to be.
Do you have any other tips that could help couples save money on their wedding photos? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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