This blog includes the following topics:


  • Why wedding photography and videography are essential?
  • How much does an average wedding photographer cost?
  • Tips for choosing the right photographer
  • How much does an average wedding videographer cost?
  • Tips for choosing the right videographer
  • Combined costs for wedding photographer and videographer
  • Factors to consider when hiring both


Planning a wedding involves lots of details, and one of the most important things to think about is getting good photos and videos of your big day. Hiring a professional team that will capture your wedding photos and videos means your special memories will be saved forever. However, understanding the costs involved can be a bit overwhelming. In this blog post, we'll break down the average costs of hiring a wedding photographer and videographer in California, answer some common questions, and provide tips to help you make an informed decision.


Why Wedding Photography and Videography are Essential

Before diving into the costs, let's understand why hiring a professional photographer and videographer for your wedding is crucial. Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, filled with moments you'll want to remember forever. Professional photographers and videographers have the skills and experience to capture these moments beautifully. They know how to work with lighting, angles, and timing to create stunning images and videos that tell the story of your day. Check out our portfolio.

A bride and groom share a kiss outdoors underneath tall palm trees. The bride's long veil flows elegantly in the breeze.

Photography: Inspired By Studio

How Much Does an Average Wedding Photographer Cost?

The cost of hiring a wedding photographer can vary widely based on factors such as experience, location, and the services offered. In California, the average cost of a wedding photographer ranges from $2,500 to $6,000. Here are some factors that influence the cost:


  • Experience and Reputation: Photographers with more experience and a strong reputation often charge higher rates. Their expertise and ability to capture beautiful moments consistently justify the higher cost.
  • Services Included: The cost may vary depending on the services included in the package. For example, some photographers offer engagement sessions, multiple photographers, or albums and prints, which can increase the overall cost.


Our prices at Inspired By Studio are among the best you can find in California. We offer a variety of wedding photography package options to suit different needs and budgets. Each package is designed to provide exceptional value while capturing the beautiful moments of your special day:

6-Hour Photography

Price: 3,000

Includes: One photographer

6 hours of coverage

Online gallery of edited photos

Full resolution downloads of edited photos

2nd Photographer, + $600

10-Hour Photography

Price: 4,400

Includes: One photographer

10 hours of coverage

Online gallery of edited photos

Full resolution downloads of edited photos

2nd Photographer, + $800

San Francisco City Hall

Price: 1,200

Includes: One photographer

2 hours of coverage

Online gallery of edited photos

Full resolution downloads of edited photos

  • Duration of Coverage: The length of time the photographer is required to cover the event can impact the cost. Full-day coverage, including pre-wedding preparations, ceremony, and reception, will be more expensive than partial-day coverage. If you need a shorter photography session, consider our elopement special package.


  • Travel Expenses: If your wedding is in a remote location or requires significant travel, additional fees may be charged for travel and accommodation. When budgeting for a wedding photographer, consider what is most important to you. If high-quality photos and a comprehensive package are your priorities, it might be worth investing in a more experienced photographer.
A bride and groom walk down an outdoor aisle at Willow Heights Mansion, California smiling and holding hands.

Photography: Inspired By Studio

Tips for Choosing the Right Photographer


  1. Research and Reviews: Look for photographers with positive reviews and a portfolio that matches your style. Personal recommendations can also be helpful.
  2. Meet in Person: If possible, meet with the photographer in person to discuss your vision and ensure you're comfortable with them.
  3. Compare Packages: Compare different packages to see what is included and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
  4. Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask questions about their experience, style, and any additional fees that may apply.

How Much Does an Average Wedding Videographer Cost?

Like photography, the cost of hiring a wedding videographer can vary. In California, the average cost of a wedding videographer ranges from $3,000 to $6,000. Several factors influence this cost:


  • Experience and Quality: Videographers with more experience and higher-quality equipment often charge higher rates. Their ability to create cinematic and emotionally engaging videos can be worth the investment.
  • Services Included: Packages may include highlight reels, full-length videos, and teaser film edits. More comprehensive packages will typically cost more.


At Inspired By Studio, we offer some of the best prices of wedding videography prices you'll find in California that are designed to give you great value while capturing all the beautiful moments of your special day:You can check our wedding videos here.

6-Hour Videography

Price: 3,300

Includes: One videographer

6 hours of coverage

60-Second teaser film

3-5 minutes highlight film

Online hosting of edited videos

2nd Videographer, + $600

Full ceremony and reception film, + $1000


10-Hour Videography

Price: 4, 400

Includes: One videographer

10 hours of coverage

60-Second teaser film

3-5 minutes highlight film

Online hosting of edited videos

2nd Videographer, + $800

Full ceremony and reception film, + $800

  • Duration of Coverage: The length of time for the service is needed to cover the event will affect the cost. Full-day coverage is more expensive than partial-day coverage.
  • Travel Expenses: Similar to photographers, additional fees may be charged for travel and accommodation if the wedding location is remote.
A bride and groom share a kiss in a forest setting. The groom wears a suit and a hat, the bride in a white gown.

Photography: Inspired By Studio

Tips for Choosing the Right Videographer


  1. View Sample Videos: Watch sample videos from different videographers to see their style and quality. Ensure it aligns with your vision for your wedding video.
  2. Meet in Person: Meeting in person can help you gauge their personality and professionalism. It's essential to feel comfortable with them.
  3. Compare Packages: Evaluate different packages to understand what is included and choose one that suits your needs and budget.
  4. Ask Questions: Inquire about their experience, equipment, editing process, and any additional costs.


Combined Costs for Photographer and Videographer


How Much Does an Average Wedding Photographer and Videographer Cost?

Many couples choose to hire both a photographer and videographer to ensure all aspects of their wedding day are captured. In California, the combined cost of hiring a wedding photographer and videographer can range from $6,000 to $10,000. This cost can vary based on the factors mentioned earlier, such as experience, services included, duration of coverage, and travel expenses.


Factors to Consider When Hiring Both

  • Compatibility: Ensure that the photographer and videographer can work well together. Some studios offer both services, which can streamline communication and coordination.
  • Packages and Discounts: Some vendors offer discounted rates when booking both photography and videography services together. Be sure to ask about package deals.
  • Consistency in Style: Hiring wedding professionals from the same studio or with similar styles can result in a more cohesive final product.
  • Budget: Determine your budget for both services and prioritize what's most important to you. Quality and experience are essential, but there are options available at various price points.
A groom in a grey suit, holds a large sombrero dips his bride, who is in a white wedding dress and holding a bouquet.

Photography: Inspired By Studio

T A K E A W A Y



Hiring a wedding photographer and videographer is an investment in preserving the memories of your special day. In California, the average cost for a wedding photographer ranges from $2,500 to $6,000, while a wedding videographer ranges from $3,000 to $6,000. When hiring both, you can expect to spend between $6,000 and $10,000.

To make the most of your budget, research and compare different vendors, consider what's included in their packages, and prioritize quality and experience. Remember, these professionals play a crucial role in capturing the essence of your wedding day, so choose wisely.


If you’re planning your wedding in California and looking for experienced photographers and videographers, we at Inspired By Studio would love to help you capture your special day. We specialize in turning your wedding day into timeless memories. Our experienced team is dedicated to capturing the essence and emotion of your celebration through our photography and videography services. We are here to help you choose the ideal package that aligns with your vision and budget. Get to know more about us.


Ready to capture your special day? Contact us today to learn more about how we can help preserve your wedding memories with our photography and videography services.

Dave Tran, wedding photographer and videogpraher of Inspired By Studio capturing a smiling bride and groom.

Additional Resources

For more information on wedding planning and photography, check out our other blog posts:


These resources provide valuable tips for planning your wedding and ensuring every moment is beautifully captured. Understanding the costs and factors involved helps you make informed decisions, resulting in stunning photos and videos that preserve your wedding day memories for years.


Whether you prefer a classic ceremony or a contemporary celebration, our photography and videography services are customized to fit your needs. We specialize in capturing the essence of your special day with elegance and expertise.