Most UK couples pay roughly £1,400 to £2,500 for full-day wedding photography, with a national average near £1,500 to £2,000 and prices in major cities running £200 to £500 higher. Full-day packages usually cover around 8 to 10 hours and deliver several hundred edited images, while extras like a second shooter, a printed album or an engagement shoot are often charged separately. Book early and look at at least one full wedding gallery from start to finish, not just a highlights reel, so you can judge a photographer's consistency across a whole day.
Typical UK cost: Most UK wedding photographers charge around £1,400-£2,500 for full-day coverage, with the national average sitting near £1,500-£2,000 and city and peak-season prices often £200-£500 higher.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does a wedding photographer cost in the UK?
Full-day wedding photography in the UK typically costs between £1,400 and £2,500, with the national average around £1,500 to £2,000. Prices in large cities and during peak summer months tend to run £200 to £500 higher, while shorter half-day or registry-office coverage can start from a few hundred pounds. Extras such as a second photographer, a printed album, prints or an engagement shoot are usually priced on top of the base package.
How far in advance should we book our wedding photographer?
Most UK couples book their photographer 9 to 18 months before the wedding, and 12 to 18 months ahead is wise for popular Saturday and summer dates. Sought-after photographers often book out a year or more for peak season, so availability drops sharply within six months of the date. If you have a specific photographer in mind, enquire as soon as your venue and date are confirmed.
What is usually included in a full-day wedding photography package?
A standard full-day package covers roughly 8 to 10 hours, from getting-ready shots through to the first dance, and delivers several hundred edited high-resolution images in an online gallery. It normally includes the photographer's time, editing and a personal usage licence to print and share the photos. A second shooter, a printed album, an engagement shoot and parent albums are common add-ons rather than included as standard, so check exactly what each quote covers.
How much deposit do wedding photographers ask for and when is the balance due?
UK wedding photographers usually take a booking fee or deposit of around 25% to 50% of the total to secure your date, and this is typically non-refundable because it reserves the day and covers pre-wedding work. The remaining balance is generally due two to four weeks before the wedding. Always get a written contract setting out coverage hours, deposit terms, the cancellation policy and image delivery before paying anything.
Do we need a second photographer for our wedding?
A second photographer is not essential for most weddings and a skilled solo photographer can comfortably cover a typical day. A second shooter is most useful when the couple get ready in separate locations, when guest numbers run into the hundreds, or when you want simultaneous angles of big moments like the ceremony and confetti. It usually adds a few hundred pounds, so weigh it against your venue size, schedule and budget.