A few years ago, my sister got married on Nantucket and happily paid her wedding photographer $4,000. She assumed that price covered everything. After the wedding, though, she realized the fee was only for the session—no album, no digital files. In the end, she spent another $6,000 to get what she thought was already included.

Before I dive into tips, remember that pricing should be just one factor when choosing a photographer. Like restaurants, photographers offer a wide range of quality and experience, which you’ll remember long after your session and investment.

Pricing Models

Now, let’s talk about pricing. Photographers often structure their pricing in ways that can be confusing, as it was for my sister. In general, there are two main structures:

1. All-Inclusive – This includes the session fee, a specified amount of time, digitals, and/or artwork. Many wedding photographers, and some family photographers, use this model.
2. Session Fee with Artwork and Digitals Sold Separately – The Session Fee typically covers a planning call, preparation guides, the session, a proof gallery, and an ordering meeting (although it can vary by photographer — check with yours). After that, clients can select collections or purchase items à la carte.

Questions to Ask

Make sure you understand pricing before your session. Some photographers clearly display their pricing on their websites (like I do), while others may ask you to reach out for a pricing guide or consultation. To avoid surprises, ask these questions:

1. What is the session fee, and what does it cover? It’s also good to find out how many images you can expect in your proof gallery.
2. What types of artwork do you offer, and how are they priced? Some photographers don’t offer artwork. If you’re interested in displaying your new, beautiful images, find out about options and request a full pricing guide.
3. Do you offer digital images (JPGs) and if so, can they be printed? Some photographers only offer ‘social media’ JPGs, which are too small for quality prints. High-resolution files can be used for printing.
4. What type of editing is included for ordered images? Review their website to get a feel for their overall style – whether it’s natural colors. light and airy, dark and moody, etc.
5. Are there any restrictions on how I can use my images? Be sure you’re allowed to use them for making prints and holiday cards, LinkedIn, websites, marketing, etc.
6. Do you offer any guarantees? Some photographers may still hold sessions in bad weather or poor conditions. Ask what happens if you’re not satisfied with the results.
7. Do you offer guidance on how to use the images? Many clients know they want updated pictures and want professional help on how to display and share them.

And My Answers

In case you are thinking of working with me…

1. What is the session fee, and what does it cover? I offer different types of sessions and they are detailed on my pricing page, along with what the session fee covers.
2. What types of artwork do you offer, and how are they priced? All the details are on my pricing page. I offer fine art canvases, metals, and acrylics, as well as storybook albums.
3. Do you offer digital images (JPGs)? Yes, I offer high-resolution digitals, designed to create prints up to 8×10 inches.
4. What type of editing is included for ordered images? I keep colors and editing natural, with light enhancements to bring out colors and correct blemishes, circles under the eyes, etc.
5. Are there any restrictions on how I can use my images? You can use them almost however you want, but they shouldn’t be sold to businesses or submitted to contests.
6. Do you offer any guarantees? Yes, I offer a ‘Love Your Photos’ Guarantee for a risk-free and stress-free experience. Read more at the bottom of my home page.
7. Do you offer guidance on how to use the images? Yes, during your ordering meeting, I’ll provide suggestions on artwork styles and sizes that may work best for your home (or office).

I hope these tips help you feel more prepared than my sister was when booking her photographer!