Choosing Your Wedding Photography Package: What Asheville Couples Need to Know

Choosing a wedding photography package can feel like a daunting task. There are often many factors to consider, from the coverage time to the number of photographers, and it's crucial to select the right package that suits your needs and budget. If you're an Asheville couple planning your wedding, here's what you need to know about choosing your wedding photography package.

Understand What's Included

When considering your wedding photography package, it's imperative to thoroughly understand what's included. Packages vary significantly across photographers, with different elements like hours of coverage, number of edited images, and album types included. Let's break down the common elements you should expect in your package:

• Hours of Coverage:

  Most wedding packages include a specified number of hours of coverage. This could range from covering just the ceremony and reception to a full day of coverage including getting ready, ceremony, and reception.

• Number of Edited Images:

  Packages often promise a certain number of professionally edited images. Be sure to ask for clarification on what 'edited' means to your photographer.

• Digital or Physical Albums:

  Many modern packages include digital albums, but some may offer physical albums. It's important to clarify this upfront.

• Second Shooter:

  A second shooter may be included in the package for larger weddings or available for an additional fee.

• Extra Costs:

  Some packages may include extra costs for travel or special equipment. Always ask for a full breakdown of costs to avoid surprises.

As a couple in Asheville planning your wedding, understanding precisely what's included in your wedding photography package will help you make an informed choice. 

Consider the Coverage Time

The number of hours a photographer will be present on your wedding day is a key factor in your package choice. Do you want the photographer there for the getting-ready shots, or only from the ceremony onwards? Do you want the entire reception covered, or just the main events like the first dance and cake cutting? The answers will help guide you towards the right package for you.

Here are some points to consider:

• Getting-Ready Shots:

  If you wish to capture the exciting hours leading up to the ceremony, make sure your package covers this time frame.

• Ceremony Coverage:

  Every package should obviously include the ceremony. Double-check the start and end times to ensure every critical moment is captured.

• Reception Coverage:

  Decide if you want your photographer present throughout the reception or only for key events, like the first dance and cake cutting.

• Extended Hours:

  Some weddings may run longer than expected, so it's worth asking how overtime is handled.

Having clarity on the desired coverage time will guide you towards a package that best suits your wedding's scale and schedule.

Digital Albums

In today's digital age, having your wedding photos in a digital format offers numerous benefits. Digital albums allow you to easily share your cherished memories with family and friends across various platforms and social media. Additionally, they provide the flexibility to create prints, canvases, or photo books on your own terms, giving you complete control over how you display and preserve your photos.

Here are some key points to remember about digital albums:

• Easy Sharing: Digital albums allow you to share your wedding photos easily with family and friends via email or social media.

• Preservation: Digital files are long-lasting and don't run the risk of physical damage or loss.

• Printing Flexibility: With digital files, you have the flexibility to print your photos any way you like, be it as prints, canvases, or photo books.

• High Resolution: Make sure your digital images are provided in high-resolution, which is crucial for printing purposes.

• Backup: With digital files, you can easily create multiple backups, ensuring the safety of your precious memories.

• Copyrights: Ensure you understand the copyright agreement with your photographer when it comes to sharing or printing your digital files.

Opting for digital albums in your wedding package will give you a convenient and flexible way to preserve and share your memories.

Second Shooter: Yes or No?

Having a second shooter can be a valuable addition to your package. They can capture different angles and moments that one photographer might miss. If you're having a large wedding, a second shooter can be especially helpful. However, if you're planning a more intimate celebration, one photographer might be sufficient.

Consider the following:

• Multiple Angles: A second shooter can capture multiple angles and perspectives of the same moment, providing a more comprehensive photographic story.

• More Coverage: With a second shooter, you can capture more simultaneous events, such as the bride and groom getting ready in different locations.

• Larger Weddings: For larger weddings, a second shooter can ensure more guest interactions and moments are captured.

• Backup: Having a second shooter provides a backup in the unlikely event of equipment failure.

• Different Styles: Two photographers might bring different styles and creativity to the table, enriching your wedding album.

• Increased Costs: Understand that adding a second shooter will likely increase the cost of your package.

Your wedding's scale and the complexity of the day's events should inform your decision on having a second shooter.

Engagement and Bridal Sessions

Some packages offer engagement shoots or bridal sessions. An engagement shoot can be a great way to get comfortable in front of the camera before your wedding day and gives you beautiful images for your save-the-dates or wedding website. A bridal session is an opportunity to take stunning photos of the bride in her wedding dress, without the rush and pressure of the wedding day. Consider whether these sessions are important to you.

Here's what you need to consider:

• Getting Comfortable: An engagement shoot can help you get comfortable with your photographer and being in front of the camera.

• Save-the-Dates: Photos from your engagement shoot can be used for save-the-dates or your wedding website.

• Location Variety: These sessions allow for more diverse locations and styles than you might have time for on your wedding day.

• Trial Run: Engagement and bridal shoots provide an opportunity for a trial run with your hair, makeup, and outfits.

• Focused Attention: A bridal session lets the bride have a dedicated shoot without the rush of the wedding day.

• Added Costs: These additional sessions may come with added costs, so consider whether they fit within your budget.

Including engagement and bridal sessions in your package can add depth and variety to your wedding photography.

Pricing and Payment Schedule

When evaluating photography packages, it's crucial to consider pricing and the payment schedule. Compare the offerings, coverage, and quality provided by different photographers. Remember, choosing a wedding photographer is an investment in preserving your memories for a lifetime. Ensure that the package you select fits within your budget and offers the desired value.

Here's what you need to consider:

• Comparison: When comparing prices, be sure to consider the quantity and quality of services provided.

• Value for Money: Remember, you are making an investment in a lifetime of memories. Choose a package that offers good value for money.

• Budget: Ensure the package you select fits within your budget.

• Payment Schedule: Understand the payment schedule. When is the deposit due, and when is the final payment?

• Overtime Costs: Be sure you know how overtime costs are handled if the wedding runs longer than expected.

• Cancellation Policy: Understand the cancellation or rescheduling policy, especially relevant in today's uncertain times.

Having a clear understanding of the pricing structure and payment terms is essential to avoid any surprises or misunderstandings.

Your Photographic Journey Ahead

Choosing the right wedding photography package is a key part of planning your Asheville wedding. It's worth taking the time to consider your needs and desires and to understand exactly what you're getting with each package. Remember, your wedding photographs will be your lasting memories of your special day, so make sure you choose the package that will capture it in the way you envision.

Your Love, My Lens

Ready to turn fleeting moments into timeless memories? Your love story deserves to be captured with authenticity and care. At Erin Jay Wedding Photography, it's not about staged shots – it's about cherishing the real, raw, and heartfelt moments of your big day. Nestled in the heart of Asheville, I'm just a click away from becoming a part of your love tale. Let's create something beautiful together.