(And What You’re Really Investing In)

If you’re newly engaged—ahh, congratulations! —you’re probably realizing how many decisions go into planning a wedding. It can be overwhelming, I know. From the big things like your venue and dress, to the details like florals and flatware… there’s just so much to think about.

While I can’t plan your whole wedding (though I will totally help with anything if you need), I can give you a little guidance in an area I know like the back of my camera—your photography. 

So, let’s talk about one of the biggest questions couples have at the beginning:

How much does a wedding photographer cost in California?

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The number can vary depending on a few things: where your wedding is, how experienced your photographer is, how long you want them there, and how personalized your coverage is. But I want to give you an honest, transparent look at what’s typical—and what you’re actually investing in when you book a photographer. 

Average Wedding Photography Pricing in California 

Here’s a general breakdown to help guide you: 

• $2,000–$4,000 → Elopements or newer photographers just starting out 

• $5,000–$8,000 → Full-day wedding coverage with an experienced photographer 

• $10,000+ → High-end editorial coverage, luxury destination weddings, or custom multi-day experiences Your wedding photography is one of the only investments that grows more valuable over time. These images will tell your love story not just today, but for generations.

What You’re Really Paying For

You’re not just paying someone to show up with a nice camera and take pretty pictures. When you hire a photographer you’re investing in: 

• Time + Care: Hours of pre-wedding prep, planning, and post-wedding editing go into every gallery. 

• Experience: Knowing how to shoot in every form of lighting, keep things flowing, and calm down a nervous wedding party. Knowing how to adjust and change every camera setting as it’s needed through every varying possibility—things that come with years of doing this. 

• Perspective: A photographer isn’t just documenting your day—they’re interpreting it through their own lens, making intentional decisions about what matters most. 

• Heirlooms: These are your memories in tangible form. They deserve to be preserved with care.

My Approach to Wedding Photography 

When I show up to your wedding, I’m stepping into a story that’s already been unfolding for years—and it’s an honor I don’t take lightly. 

I’m not there just to check off a shot list. I’m there to notice the way your partner looks at you when you’re not looking. The way your grandma smiles during your first dance. The hand-squeeze from your dad before you walk down the aisle. The laughter, the quiet, the in-between moments that say everything. 

I photograph your wedding with an editorial-meets-documentary approach: elevated, romantic images that still feel like you. I want your gallery to feel both artful and intimate—like a magazine spread and a memory all at once. 

And I do all of it with intention. I don’t believe in fluff or filler. Every image I deliver should feel like it belongs—because it does. It was part of your story. 

Because when the day is over and the cake is gone, these photos are what remain. And I want them to feel like your story.

My Wedding Collections 

Here’s a look at what I offer. I also build custom packages because no two love stories are the same—and your day should feel like you, not like a preset template.

Collection One — The Heirloom Experience 

$5,000 

For the couple who wants their full story told—front to back, with intention and artistry. • 10 hours of coverage 

• Full engagement session 

• Mini bridal or boudoir session 

• Second photographer 

• Optional 40-minute rehearsal dinner coverage 

• Venue walk-through 

• Customized timeline 

• Online gallery + USB with full-resolution images 

Collection Two — The Signature 

$3,500 

A full-day experience capturing the essence of your wedding with grace and emotion. • 8 hours of coverage 

• Full engagement session 

• Second photographer 

• Venue walk-through 

• Customized timeline 

• Online gallery + USB with full-resolution images

Collection Three — The Intimate 

$1,800 

Perfect for smaller celebrations, elopements, or courthouse “I dos.” • 4 hours of coverage

• Mini engagement session 

• Second photographer 

• Customized timeline 

• Online gallery + USB with full-resolution images 

Collection Four — The Petite 

$800 

A simple, elegant option for short coverage or vow renewals. 

• 2 hours of coverage 

• Mini engagement session 

• Customized timeline 

• Online gallery + USB with full-resolution images 

A Note on Budgeting 

If this is your first time exploring wedding photography costs—you’re not alone. Most couples have no idea what to expect. But if photography is one of your top priorities, then it’s worth finding someone who sees your vision and can bring it to life with care.

Final Thoughts + An Invite 

If you’re curious about what your own custom wedding photography experience could look like, or you just want to chat and dream a little—I’d love to hear from you. 

No pressure. No pitch. Just two people talking about stories, love, and all the moments that matter. 

Let’s create something beautiful together. 

With love,

Katelyn