In 2021, the average cost of a wedding could set couples back by $28,000. Price increases were rampant across wedding vendors, from catering to flowers to photography. For most, photography is non-negotiable. After all, the pictures you take on your special day are priceless and will last you a lifetime. However, some couples can struggle to accommodate expensive photography packages.
Fortunately, there are definitely a few tips that can produce images of your wedding today to make the memories last. Below, we’ve compiled five hacks that budget-savvy couples should look into:
1. Create an informed budget
Before anything else, it’s best to create a budget for your big day. This will determine how much you’ll need to spend on wedding photography. First, identify your source of funds. Ideally, it would help if you looked into your savings and monthly income. Once this has been cleared, track every wedding expense through a spreadsheet. Having a visual reminder can put things in perspective; however, we understand that budgeting can get stressful. If you need assistance, we offer wedding consultations that can help you prioritize important details such as photography packages.
2. Book your photographer early
Generally, we advise couples to secure their photographer early. Some professionals will offer discounts for advanced bookings. In other cases, while some don’t provide discounts upfront, popular wedding months can cause them to raise their rates. Now, as far as research goes, you can also explore more options to get the best possible quote. Have at least three quotes for reference. This way, you can also negotiate for a better price. Of course, it’s equally crucial to read up on reviews on your list of photographers. Booking early shouldn’t compromise quality, so choose a photographer with a history of satisfied clients.
3. Add it to your registry
Weddings usually entail a registry of some kind. This guides guests in providing meaningful or suitable gifts to couples. Even though bridal registries do exist, a lot of items (be it trendy home decor or novelty appliances), can be left unused in your storage. In this case, you may want to ask your loved ones to crowdfund your photography costs instead of items you don’t really need. By helping out, they can also feel a sense of involvement in your special day.
4. Recruit photography assistance from your friends
During a wedding, your guests are likely already staging their own photoshoots. They may already be taking flat-lay food photos for Instagram or posing against beautiful backdrops at the reception. Harping on that, you can add a bit of fun by supplying them with a novelty camera everyone can use and pass around, like a film camera. Getting specialty cameras like the Fujicolor Superia 400 can generate great shots, whether indoors or outdoors. It’s great for evening receptions as well, with its built-in flash. Otherwise, the Lomography Konstructor has a fixed lens, ideal for intimate portraits of you and your partner. Whichever film camera you decide on, a community camera is sure to catch candid and personal moments.
5. Utilize the scenery
If you’re holding your special day at a unique wedding venue such as notable landmarks or newly renovated areas, you should maximize it. Utilizing scenic spots can provide you with the most flexible (and low-cost) prop for your future wedding album. For example, you can take stunning sunset shots in places with a lot of natural light. This kind of lighting can stand on its own as well. If you’re holding your reception by the beach, you can also take photos by the water. A beautiful seaside setting offers plenty of beautiful options.
For more tips on how to plan a great wedding, do read our latest posts on No Worries Event Planning.
Article written by Grace Emery for No Worries Consulting