After the anticipation of the romantic proposal and the ring, it might take some time for reality to set in: you’re getting married! You’re getting married, and—here is where reality really hits—it’s time to start planning all the details you have been dreaming about since you were five. While planning can be equal parts stress and excitement, spending more money than you can afford is a surefire way to up your anxiety levels. Sticking to a budget and getting great wedding shots might seem mutually exclusive, but because wedding photos are invaluable keepsakes that you will treasure for years to come, here are some tips to help you get the most mileage out of each dollar you spend.
Determine Your Budget
Finances are stressful in everyday life, so it only makes sense that they could cause some tension during wedding planning, too. With the average wedding in 2011 costing brides, grooms, and their families a whopping $27,000, no one should blame you if you are trying to keep expenses down. That’s why it’s so important to determine your budget before you make a single wedding decision. Sit down with your fiancé, your family, and anyone else footing the bill to find out who is willing to contribute what. If the total you all agree on seems like it will be tight, keep in mind that you can still have the day you’ve been dreaming of without breaking the bank—affordable wedding photography does exist.
Review All Your Options
Photographers almost always offer different packages with varying prices to fit multiple budgets. In most cases, you will find that the main difference between the packages is usually the amount of time involved—whether you will have the photographer for a few hours, the whole day, or something in between. Take a look at the packages offered and then consider how they would play out on your wedding day. What kind of pictures do you want? Do you want photos from every event? Or are mementos from the ceremony enough? Pick the package that gives you the best compromise between price and time.
Start Early
Because wedding photography is so important, the best photographers tend to get booked up far in advance. The sooner you make your decisions regarding your photography, the more likely it is that the affordable wedding photographer you have chosen will be available on the day of your events. Call the photography studio and double check that your date is available for the package you want. Be prepared to pay a deposit that will guarantee your wedding day reservation when you are booking.
You Can Have What You Want for a Price You’re Willing to Pay
If the thought of getting great photographs that don’t cost you an arm and a leg seems impossible, just remember: Establishing a budget and sticking to it helps ensure that you don’t overspend on your big day. Taking stock of all of your options helps you determine which package is right for your budget and your photo needs, while booking early ensures that you will get a reasonably priced, seasoned professional behind the lens. Once you’ve made your decision, relax and look forward to your big day! You deserve it.