The Average Cost of a Wedding Photographer in Texas: What to Expect
If you’re planning a wedding in Texas and shopping for a photographer, you’ve probably already noticed something wild:
One photographer quotes $1,200. Another quotes $5,000. And suddenly you’re spiraling at 11:47pm Googling, “How much does a wedding photographer cost per hour???”
Deep breath. You’re not doing it wrong.
Let’s talk about what wedding photography actually costs in Texas and why that number isn’t as random as it feels.
So…What Does a Wedding Photographer Actually Cost in Texas?
Here’s the real-world range most Texas couples see:
$2,500–$4,500 for full wedding day coverage
$250–$500 per hour for experienced photographers
Elopements and courthouse weddings? Usually less.
Big, all-day (or all-weekend) celebrations with multiple locations? More.
And no, you’re not “overpaying” just because someone else found a cheaper quote.
Why Pricing Is All Over the Map (and Why That’s Totally Normal)
Wedding photography pricing can feel chaotic… but there is logic to it. Here’s what actually affects the cost.
You’re Not Just Paying for Photos
Anyone can take a pretty picture on a good day. What you’re actually investing in is someone who:
Stays calm when the timeline goes sideways
Can handle the pressure of a high-stakes event like your wedding
Know how to photograph you and your grandma and the chaos in between
Can make you feel comfortable even if you “hate being in front of the camera”
That confidence doesn’t come from vibes alone. It comes from experience.
Location, Location, Location (Yes, It Matters Here Too)
Where you’re getting married matters…a lot. Weddings in places like Austin and San Antonio where I shoot often cost more due to:
Higher demand
Travel and parking logistics
Permits and location restrictions
A quick courthouse ceremony will almost always cost less than a 10-hour Hill Country wedding with three locations and a sunset send-off.
Your Style Has a Price Tag — and That’s a Good Thing
Not all photography styles are created equal. Cinematic and film photographers such as myself typically:
Shoot more intentionally
Spend way more time editing
Use specialized equipment and film stocks
Focus heavily on color, tone, and storytelling
If you love warm tones, nostalgic vibes, or film photography that feels like it’s been living in a shoebox under your bed for 30 years (the stuff my dreams are made of), that level of craft shows up in the price.
What You Don’t See Behind the Camera
A wedding photography business is expensive to run (surprise!).
Pricing includes things like:
Professional camera bodies and lenses
Backup gear (always, always)
Editing software
Insurance and taxes
Gallery hosting and long-term file storage
Ongoing education and training
All of that ensures your photos are safe, beautifully edited, and delivered reliably — no horror stories here.
What’s Actually Included in a Wedding Photography Package
Most wedding photography packages include:
A set number of coverage hours
A minimum number of edited images
Timeline guidance and planning support
Professional editing
An online gallery for downloading and sharing
More hours = more shooting + more editing + more love poured into your gallery. At least, that’s how I operate.
The Fun Extras That Can Bump the Budget (In a Good Way)
This is where things get extra dreamy.
Some couples add:
Printed albums (the kind you pull off of the shelves on anniversaries)
Film photography for that warm, nostalgic, shoebox-under-the-bed magic
Wedding videography, because hearing voices and laughter hits different
Extra coverage if you don’t want to rush a single moment
Totally optional. Totally worth it if it fits your vision.
Okay, But What’s the Right Number for You?
The “right” budget isn’t about averages, it’s about alignment. I encourage every couple I have a consultation with to ask themselves:
“Do I feel comfortable and safe with this photographer?”
“Does their work make me feel something?”
“Do I trust them with one of the most meaningful days of my life?”
If the answer down the line is yes, you’re probably making the right call.
The Part That Actually Matters
Wedding photography isn’t just another vendor. It’s how your day will be remembered.
Long after the cake is gone and the flowers fade, your photos are what remain. Choosing a photographer who aligns with your values, style, and story will always be worth the investment.
If you want to chat about coverage options or build something custom for your day, I’m all ears. Let’s make some magic. ❤️