How Much Does a Wedding Photographer Cost NZ?

Planning a wedding in New Zealand involves juggling many expenses, and one big question on every couple’s mind is how much does a wedding photographer cost. In NZ, wedding photography prices can vary widely – from budget options under a few thousand dollars to luxury packages that cost as much as an entire small wedding. The wedding photographer cost NZ couples encounter will depend on several factors, including the photographer’s experience, what’s included in the package, and even the location of your wedding. All prices discussed here are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD), and typically refer to full-day coverage (about 8 hours) unless stated otherwise.

In this guide, we’ll break down typical wedding photography price ranges in New Zealand – especially relevant if you’re planning a Wellington wedding. You’ll learn what to expect from entry-level photographers through to luxury-tier artists. We’ll also explore the key factors that influence pricing, like hours of coverage, number of photos, albums, engagement sessions, travel fees, and extras such as a second shooter or video options. By the end, you should have a clear idea of which pricing tier matches your needs and how to get the best value from your investment in wedding photography.

Factors That Affect Wedding Photography Pricing

Before diving into specific price brackets, it’s important to understand why costs vary so much. A Wellington Wedding Photographer (or any NZ photographer) sets their prices based on a combination of their costs, experience, and the value they provide. Here are some key factors that influence wedding photography pricing in NZ:

• Experience & Reputation: Highly experienced photographers (with many years in business or hundreds of weddings shot) charge more for their seasoned expertise and proven track record. Newer photographers or those building a portfolio may offer lower rates to attract clients. However, price isn’t a perfect indicator – some less experienced shooters may price themselves higher to position as premium, so always review their work and client reviews carefully.
• Hours of Coverage: The length of time you need the photographer will significantly impact cost. Common packages range from short 4-5 hour elopement coverage to full-day (8-10+ hours) coverage. Naturally, a 10-hour day costs more than a 5-hour one due to the extra shooting time and the additional editing work afterward. Be clear on how much of your day you want documented – from getting ready in the morning until the dance floor ignites at night.
• Number of Photographers (Second Shooter): Some packages include a second shooter to cover different angles or simultaneous moments (for example, one photographer with the bride getting ready and one with the groom). A second shooter typically adds to the cost, but it can double the coverage and result in more photos and varied perspectives. About one-third of wedding photographers include a second shooter in their base packages, while others offer it as an add-on. If having photos of every moment from multiple angles is important to you, consider budgeting for a two-photographer team.
• Deliverables (Photos & Albums): What are you actually getting for the price? Lower-priced packages might include only a certain number of edited digital photos delivered via an online gallery. Higher-end packages often deliver hundreds of photos (sometimes 500+ images) and may include physical products like prints or a fine art wedding album. Custom-designed albums, canvas prints, or framed photos will increase the package cost, but they also turn your digital memories into tangible keepsakes. Always check if albums or prints are included or if they’re optional extras at additional cost.
• Engagement Sessions & Extras: Many photographers offer an engagement shoot or pre-wedding session as part of a package or as an add-on. This is a great way to get comfortable with your photographer and have beautiful photos ahead of the big day – but it will reflect in the price. Similarly, extras like a post-wedding trash-the-dress shoot or a pre-wedding rehearsal dinner coverage will add to costs. In some higher packages (especially with seasoned photographers), a complimentary engagement session might be bundled in, whereas entry-level packages likely keep it basic with just the wedding day.
• Travel and Location: If your wedding is outside the photographer’s home region, you might incur travel fees. Most Wellington wedding photographers won’t charge extra for weddings in the immediate Wellington area. But if you’re getting married in the Wairarapa, Auckland or Queenstown, discuss travel costs like mileage, accommodation, or airfare if applicable. New Zealand’s stunning landscapes mean many couples plan destination weddings or remote elopements – just remember to budget for your photographer’s travel and possibly overnight stay. From intimate beach ceremonies to the many stunning wedding venues in Wellington and beyond, location can influence price. Some photographers have specific travel radius included in their package and charge per kilometre beyond that.
• Videography or Live Stream Add-Ons: Photography and videography are often separate services, but some companies offer both. If you want video coverage of your wedding (highlights film, full ceremony video, or even live streaming for guests who can’t attend), you may hire a separate team or see if your photographer offers a photo + video package. Adding a professional wedding videographer in Wellington will increase the overall cost, but combo packages can sometimes be more cost-effective than hiring two vendors separately. For instance, a full photography & videography team for a luxury wedding might cost around $8,000+ in NZ but you’ll get both sets of skills working seamlessly together. Consider your priorities – stunning photos alone, or a blend of photos and video memories – and allocate your budget accordingly.
• Season & Demand: Like many wedding services, timing can affect price. Summer and early autumn (the peak wedding season in NZ, roughly December through March) have high demand, especially weekends. Photographers may charge premium rates or have minimum package requirements during popular dates. If you’re planning an off-season or weekday wedding, you might find more negotiable pricing since it’s a less busy time. Always ask if there are off-peak discounts or specials.

Keep these factors in mind when evaluating quotes. A higher price often means more experience, more time spent (including editing and consultations), and more deliverables. But it’s crucial to find a balance that suits your budget and gives you confidence that your wedding memories will be beautifully captured. Next, let’s break down who you can get at various price points in New Zealand’s wedding photography market.

Entry-Level Photographers ($1,500–$2,500)

If you’re working with a tight budget, entry-level wedding photographers fall roughly in the $1,500 to $2,500 NZD range for full-day coverage. These are often talented newcomers or part-timers who have shot a limited number of weddings. They may have perhaps second-shot (assisted) for other professionals and are now building their own portfolio. Typically, a photographer will start charging in this range after gaining confidence from shooting maybe 5–20 weddings as experience.

At this price tier, you can find some great up-and-coming photographers – possibly someone with a good eye and modern style who just hasn’t got years of experience yet. In fact, some experienced shooters who do wedding photography as a side hustle (not their full-time job) remain in this bracket for a long time. That means you might luck out with a photographer who has a few years under their belt but charges modest rates because they only shoot a limited number of weddings per year. Couples on a budget can certainly get beautiful photos by hiring within this range, especially if you do your homework: check their portfolio, and ideally full wedding galleries, to ensure their work is consistently good throughout an entire day.

What to expect for $1.5k–$2.5k: Generally, a single photographer covering up to 8 hours, delivering perhaps 300-500 edited images via online gallery. Extras like albums or engagement shoots are usually not included at this price (but you can often add them for a fee). These photographers will likely handle all the editing themselves and may have a straightforward style.

Trade-offs: Because these photographers are newer or less established, they might not have the high-end gear backups or the refined workflow that more seasoned pros do. They’re also less likely to have encountered a wide variety of wedding day scenarios – so while they can certainly do an excellent job, there’s a bit more unknown. Communication and planning are key: make sure to discuss timelines and must-have shots in detail, since an entry-level shooter might not proactively run the day’s schedule the way an experienced pro would. As long as you set clear expectations and keep organised (perhaps with a run sheet for the photo timeline), an entry-level photographer can deliver wonderful results for a fraction of top-tier prices.

Beware of “too good to be true” offers: If someone is offering full-day coverage for significantly less (say under $1000), double-check what experience they have (if any). It’s not unheard of for a friend with a decent camera to volunteer or charge minimal fees, but remember that weddings are once-in-a-lifetime events with no do-overs. A completely inexperienced or ultra-cheap photographer could miss important moments or deliver subpar images. Thus, $1,500 is generally the floor for hiring a dedicated professional in NZ. Anything lower may be a hobbyist or someone using your wedding for practice – which is a risk only you can decide if you’re comfortable taking. That said, everyone starts somewhere, and if you do go with a newbie, be sure to see some sample work and understand the limitations (and perhaps have a backup plan for prints or edits).

Early-Career Professionals (2–3 Years Experience: $3,000–$4,000)

Moving into the mid budget range, around $3,000 to $4,000 NZD, you’ll find photographers with a couple of years of experience or those who have begun to establish their style in the market. Often, photographers crossing the $3k mark have shot dozens of weddings (perhaps 30-60 weddings over 2–3 years) and have honed their technical skills and customer service. They are likely doing photography as a full-time job or serious business at this stage, which means a higher level of professionalism (contracts, clear communication, backup equipment, etc.) – and accordingly, higher fees than entry-level.

Why $3,000+? – At roughly $3k and above, a photographer is factoring in not just the wedding day but all the behind-the-scenes work that goes into delivering a high-quality product. This includes many hours of editing, client meetings, gallery preparation, and often investing in top-tier camera gear and backup devices for safety. They’ve also likely invested in developing a distinctive editing style or artistic approach that sets them apart, which adds value to their service.

In New Zealand, $3,000–$4,000 has been a common price range for solid professional wedding photographers, especially up until the early 2020s. At the lower end of this bracket (around $3000), you might be hiring someone still early in their career but with great training or mentoring behind them. In fact, some photographers in this range are those who have worked as second shooters for high-end photographers and are now taking on their own clients. This means you could get a similar style or quality to a more expensive photographer because the early-career photographer has learned from the best – all at a lower cost. It’s a bit of an industry secret that some fantastic talents charge $3500 when their skill level might arguably be worth $5000+, simply because they haven’t raised their prices yet.

What to expect for $3k–$4k (early-career): Typically, one photographer covering your full day (8-10 hours). You should expect an extensive gallery of images (500+), basic editing on all and maybe some retouching on select shots. Many in this range will offer an engagement shoot as an add-on, or sometimes include it to sweeten the deal, since building their portfolio and client relationships is still a priority. You’ll likely get more personalized service too – things like timeline assistance, vendor recommendations, or quick communication are common as these photographers build their reputation. They might not have a studio or team yet (you’re hiring the individual), but they will be enthusiastic and often go the extra mile to impress.

Considerations: This range can be a sweet spot in value. However, because this segment of the market is very crowded, be prepared to do your research. There are many photographers in NZ charging around $3,500, but their experience levels could vary. Some might be relatively new but confident, while others might be fairly seasoned but intentionally keeping prices accessible. Always review full wedding albums and have a chat to gauge if the photographer’s personality and approach fit your day. If possible, meet in person or via video-call before booking – you want someone who not only takes great photos but also makes you feel comfortable and understood. The benefit of this range is you have lots of choice, so you can be picky to find the perfect match in style and personality.

Mid-Range Established Photographers ($3,000–$4,000)

Interestingly, the mid-range for wedding photographer cost in NZ also sits around $3,000 to $4,000, overlapping with the early-career group. In fact, until recently this was the standard price bracket for experienced wedding photographers across New Zealand. What separates the “mid-range professionals” from the “early-career” folks, if the pricing is similar? Mainly, it comes down to reputation, demand, and business maturity.

Many photographers with 5+ years of experience and over a hundred weddings in their portfolio were traditionally in the $3k–$4k range. As of 2023 and 2024, with inflation and higher demand, a number of these established pros have bumped their prices higher (into the next bracket). But you’ll still find quite a few excellent photographers in NZ holding steady around the mid-$3000s mark. They may do so to remain competitive or because they focus on a particular market segment (for example, not targeting luxury weddings but rather the typical Kiwi wedding budget). For couples, this is good news – it means you could hire a seasoned, well-reviewed photographer at this price if you do a bit of digging.

What to expect from a mid-range pro: These photographers are often running a full-time business. You can expect a polished experience: professional websites, clear packages, prompt email replies, and a wealth of sample galleries. They’ve seen most scenarios a wedding day can throw at them – rain or shine, timeline delays, tricky lighting – and know how to adapt on the fly. With likely 100+ weddings under their belt, a mid-range pro can anticipate moments and handle family wrangling or timeline management with ease. The deliverables will be similar to the early-career range (full-day coverage, hundreds of photos, digital delivery) but often with more refinement. For example, their editing style will be consistent and signature; the quality of images (in terms of focus, composition, creativity) will be top-notch because of experience. They may also include some niceties like a highlight slideshow, or a print credit toward an album, etc., as part of the package.

Another benefit of hiring an established mid-range photographer is their network and familiarity. If they’re Wellington-based and you’re getting married in Wellington, chances are they have shot at many local venues. They might even be able to give advice on timing at certain spots (like the best time for photos at Boomrock or Wellington Botanic Gardens). They’ve also worked with many vendors, so they can gel well with your videographer, caterer, or planner. Don’t hesitate to ask them for tips – experienced photographers often have great insight beyond just photos (like how to schedule your sunset photos, or which side the bride should stand on during the ceremony for best lighting, etc.).

Competition in this bracket: Because this price bracket is so popular, as a client you should inquire early. The top photographers around $3500–$4000 tend to book out key dates (especially summer Saturdays) 1-2 years in advance. In fact, a Facebook survey of NZ wedding photographers in 2024 found most professionals cluster around the $3,500–$5,000 range for an 8-hour package. So if your favourite photographer’s quote lands here, know that it’s in line with the market. Just be ready to secure your date with a deposit timely, since many couples are shopping in the same pool.

In summary, the mid-range of $3k–$4k is where value meets experience. You can get an accomplished photographer who delivers stunning work and a smooth experience, at a cost that is reasonable relative to the overall wedding budget. Speaking of which, don’t forget: photography typically makes up around 10–12% of a New Zealand wedding’s total cost (the average NZ wedding costs about $32,000, and an average full-day photography package is roughly $3,500. Investing in a good photographer is generally money well spent, as the photos are one of the few things you’ll keep for life after the day is over.

Seasoned Experts (300+ Weddings: $4,500–$6,000)

When you move into the $4,500 to $6,000 NZD price range, you are looking at the seasoned experts of the wedding photography world. These photographers have likely photographed hundreds of weddings (often 300+ weddings over their career). They’ve seen every type of venue, lighting situation, and timeline curveball imaginable. In New Zealand, this range is increasingly common for top-tier professionals as the cost of living and demand have gone up – in fact, $4.5k–$6k could be considered the new standard for highly sought-after photographers who consistently deliver excellence.

What sets this tier apart: At this level, you’re paying for deep expertise and artistry. These photographers are masters of their craft; many are award-winning or are the ones whose work gets featured in bridal magazines and popular wedding blogs. Their style is often distinctive and refined. By the time a photographer can command $5,000 for a wedding, they usually have rave reviews spanning years, a strong brand, and a long list of happy clients. You can trust that such a photographer will not flinch at unexpected weather or a sudden change in schedule – they’ll likely have a plan B (and C) ready due to their experience.

What’s included for $4.5k–$6k: Expect a very comprehensive package. Full-day coverage is a given, and many in this tier will limit the number of weddings they take per year to maintain quality and personal attention. You may get two photographers included (a lead and a second shooter) so that no moment is missed. Additional sessions like an engagement shoot or bridal portrait session are commonly included or at least heavily discounted. High-end albums, prints, or wall art credits might be bundled in as well. Essentially, these packages aim to deliver a luxury experience – from the initial consultation through to the handcrafted album delivery. Every detail is usually taken care of, which is a relief for busy couples.

Personalised service: Photographers in this bracket often pride themselves on client experience. Don’t be surprised if your $5k photographer helps create a custom timeline for photo opportunities, or checks in with you multiple times before the wedding to fine-tune details. They often act almost like an additional planner on the day – coordinating with the DJ or celebrant quietly to ensure they are in position for key shots, or adjusting the schedule if rain clouds threaten your outdoor ceremony. This level of service and peace of mind is a big part of why many couples stretch their budget for a seasoned pro. As one New Zealand photography team noted, a top photographer’s experience means they can anticipate and solve problems behind the scenes so your day stays stress-free.

Is it worth it? If photography is a high priority for you and fits in your budget, many would say yes, it’s worth investing in an expert. The difference can show not only in the final images, but in how smoothly your day runs. That said, not every wedding needs a $6,000 photographer. If you’re having a small, simple wedding and photos are more documentary for you, a mid-range photographer might suffice. However, if you have a complex event (multiple locations, large guest list, elaborate decor) or you know you want those breathtaking portrait shots at golden hour that belong on a magazine cover, a seasoned expert is more likely to deliver that consistently. They also tend to have the best gear (and backups of everything) and might bring along lighting assistants or extra equipment for creative shots that others wouldn’t attempt.

One more note: at this tier, you’re likely dealing with photographers who have seen trends come and go. They have longevity. This sometimes means they might be a bit set in their ways or extremely sought-after. Be sure their style still resonates with you – some veterans have adapted with the times, while others might still favour an older style of shooting/editing. Review their recent work to ensure it aligns with your vision. If it does, you can book them knowing your wedding memories are in exceptionally skilled hands.

Luxury Tier Photographers ($7,000+)

At the very top of the market, we have the luxury tier of wedding photographers, whose packages start around $7,000 NZD and up. This category is rarefied air – only a small handful of New Zealand photographers operate in this range, and they are essentially the crème de la crème. Couples hiring in this bracket are often hosting high-budget weddings (six-figure budgets, destination events, celebrity clientele, etc.) where photography is a priority and they want the absolute best of the best.

What to expect for $7k+: In a word, excellence. These photographers have a reputation that often precedes them; they might have international awards, be named among the world’s top wedding photographers, or frequently be featured in luxury wedding publications. For example, many luxury photographers’ work will grace the pages of style magazines and top wedding blogs, and they might shoot a lot in picturesque locations like Queenstown or Fiji for high-end destination weddings. The service is extremely personalised: think custom everything. They may offer multi-day coverage (for instance, covering your rehearsal dinner, wedding day, and next-day brunch), a team of photographers and videographers, fine art albums handcrafted to your specifications, and even concierge-style help in planning photo spots or timing for the perfect natural light. Essentially, they’re not just documenting your wedding; they’re curating a photography experience that’s part of the luxury wedding package.

Why such a high cost? Beyond a certain point, you’re paying for brand and exclusivity as much as for the photographs. These photographers limit the number of weddings they do (maybe only 10-15 a year) to ensure each client gets full attention. Their overheads are high – top-of-the-line gear, insurance, possibly studio staff or editors working behind the scenes, and sometimes travel for almost every shoot. They’ve also likely spent a decade or more building their craft to an art form. In NZ, a survey noted that the best wedding photographers (those considered at the pinnacle of skill and demand) can indeed charge anywhere from $5,000 up to $10,000+. $7k is often just the starting point for a basic package, with elaborate multi-day or destination coverage going well above that.

When you hire a luxury tier photographer, you’re often also buying into their creative vision wholeheartedly. These are photographers who may have a specific style (for example, fashion-forward editorial portraits, or cinematic dramatic lighting) that is uniquely theirs. Clients choose them because they want that signature look for their wedding memories. And because they operate in a luxury market, they’re used to working with other high-end vendors – meaning seamless coordination with your planner, florists, lighting designers, etc., to orchestrate and capture truly magazine-worthy scenes. Nothing is left to chance; if you’re flying to a mountain top for photos, they’ve probably scouted it or done it before, ensuring amazing results (even if it involves helicopters and complex logistics!).

Is it for you? Not everyone needs to spend over $7,000 on photography, obviously. The average Kiwi wedding won’t have the budget for that. But for those who do, New Zealand offers some phenomenal talent at the luxury level. Think of it this way: if your wedding budget is, say, $70k+, allocating 10% or more to photography isn’t unusual for those who really value image artistry (and perhaps have a large scope of events to cover). If you’re a couple who considers photography one of the most important aspects and you have the means, the results from a top-tier photographer will likely blow you away. These photographers capture not just moments, but moments in the best possible light and composition. They often have creative ideas that can turn a simple pose into a work of art. And the client experience will be very hands-on and customised – expect mood boards, planning meetings, venue walk-throughs, and white-glove service all the way.

In NZ, luxury photographers might also offer extras like photography education or mentorship (since they’re industry leaders) and may even have associates. But if you’ve hired the head honcho, you are getting them personally on your day. As with any expensive purchase, ensure the style matches what you envision. But rest assured that technically and professionally, these folks deliver at a consistently high level – that consistency and prestige is what you’re paying for.

Choosing the Right Photographer for Your Budget

By now, it’s clear that wedding photographer cost can range from well under $2,000 to well over $7,000 in New Zealand. So, how do you decide what’s right for you? It really comes down to aligning your budget with your priorities and the level of expertise you’re comfortable with. Here are a few final tips to make your decision easier:

• Set Your Overall Budget: First, determine how much you can realistically allocate to photography. Remember to consider your entire wedding budget – for context, if you’re curious how much does a wedding cost NZ-wide, the average is about $30k–$35k. Some couples choose to spend around 10-15% of their budget on photography (more if it’s top priority). Know your number, but if possible, leave a little flexibility to stretch for someone you truly love.
• Identify Your “Must-Haves”: Is having a second shooter non-negotiable? Do you want a beautiful album included? How many hours of coverage do you need (full day vs. just ceremony and reception)? Make a list of what you value most. For example, if you absolutely want an engagement shoot and a wedding album, it might make sense to look at mid-range packages that bundle those, rather than an entry-level photographer who charges extra for each. If having a video is crucial, maybe look for a team that offers wedding photography + videography pricing in one package for convenience. Your priorities will guide which price tier can accommodate them.
• Research and Compare Photographers in Each Bracket: Spend time browsing portfolios and reviews for photographers in your price range. Notice the differences in style and consistency. A lower-budget photographer might have a handful of stunning shots on their website, whereas a higher-end one will have dozens of full galleries of consistently great images. Read client testimonials if available – were past couples happy with not just the photos but the experience? Sometimes a slightly more expensive photographer ends up being worth it because they made the whole day easier and more enjoyable, which is priceless.
• Meet or Zoom Call with Your Shortlist: You’ll be spending one of the most intimate, emotional days of your life with this person by your side, so you want to actually like them! Whether you’re hiring someone at $2k or $6k, chemistry and trust matter. Having a chat can also clarify how willing they are to customise things for you. Perhaps a mid-tier photographer is willing to create a custom package within your budget if you ask, or an early-career photographer might include a free engagement session to win your business. You never know until you ask.
• Consider Value Over Price: It’s tempting to just go with the cheapest quote, but think in terms of value. What are you getting for that price? Perhaps Photographer A is $1000 cheaper than Photographer B, but A only provides 5 hours coverage and no edited high-resolution files, whereas B includes 10 hours and all images edited in an online gallery. The per-hour or per-photo value might actually be higher with the cheaper one when you add extras. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront means you won’t face surprise add-on costs later for albums or extra coverage.
• Trust Your Instincts: If you have a gut feeling about a photographer – good or bad – listen to it. If their style makes you swoon and you can stretch to afford them, it may be worth cutting back elsewhere in the budget. Conversely, if someone’s work is fine on paper but you aren’t excited about it or don’t click personally, keep looking. There are plenty of fish in the sea, especially around the popular $3k–$4k range. You will find the right fit.

Real Client Testimonials

Nothing speaks louder than a happy couple’s words. Here are a few highlights from weddings we’ve captured:

“Ruchika, DJ and their team made our wedding day so memorable. Even before our wedding day, they paid a lot of attention to the details… All of this effort resulted in an amazing set of beautiful photos… We couldn’t be more happy about it”thefamilycompany.co.nz.

“Ruchika and Dinesh did an amazing job capturing our wedding. We had a 3-day event with Indian and western celebrations… We always felt we were in very capable hands and the results speak for themselves. We’re so happy with our photographs… We highly recommend Ruchika and the team.”thefamilycompany.co.nz.

These testimonials reflect our commitment to both quality and customer satisfaction. When you book a Wellington Wedding Photographer like A Wedding Story, you’re not just paying for photos — you’re investing in memories preserved with creativity and care.

Finally, remember that your wedding photos are an investment in memories. Trends like floral arrangements or even venues come and go, but your photos (and videos) are what remain decades later. Whether you choose a budget-friendly shooter or a top-of-the-line veteran, make sure you allocate enough budget to get a photographer who is capable and whose work makes you feel happy. Years after the cake is eaten and the confetti is gone, it’s the photos that will transport you back to those moments. Choose someone who will tell your wedding story beautifully and authentically. With a bit of research and clarity on what you value, you’ll find a photographer in New Zealand that fits both your vision and your wallet – and that’s truly picture-perfect.