How much does wedding photography and videography cost in the UK in 2026?

Photography and film are usually among the biggest supplier costs in a wedding budget, and prices online can be all over the place. Here’s what UK couples are actually spending in 2026, what drives the price up or down, and how to work out what’s right for you.

The UK averages in 2026

A few things to bear in mind. These are national averages, and Bridebook notes that London and the South East typically run higher, with photographers and videographers there averaging somewhere around £1,700 to £2,200. Averages also mix very different services together: two hours of ceremony coverage and a full day from two people both count as “a photographer”.

What actually changes the price

Hours of coverage

The biggest factor. Getting ready through to the first dance is a long day, often ten hours or more. Shorter coverage (say, ceremony to speeches) costs less, but you’ll miss the getting ready or the evening party.

One person or two

A second photographer or camera operator means two angles on the big moments (the aisle and the vows at the same time) and coverage of both of you getting ready. It adds to the cost, but for larger weddings it often makes a real difference.

What you receive

For photos: how many edited images, an online gallery, prints or an album. For film: a highlights film, a longer film, the full ceremony and speeches, short social edits. Make sure you’re comparing like with like.

Experience and editing

Much of the work happens after the wedding. Editing hundreds of photos by hand, or crafting a film around the best audio, takes days. That time is a big part of what you’re paying for.

Travel and destination weddings

Weddings further from home, or abroad, usually include travel and accommodation costs.

Is booking photo and film together worth it?

It can be, for a few reasons beyond price:

• One team, one plan. Your photographer and filmmaker already work together, so there’s no jostling for position during the vows.
• A consistent look. Your photos and film feel like they belong together.
• Fewer suppliers to manage. One contract, one point of contact, one person to send your timeline to.

How to budget sensibly

1. Decide what matters most. If you’ll only ever look at photos, put the money there. If hearing your vows again matters, keep room for a film.
2. Book early for peak dates. Bridebook notes popular summer Saturdays often book 18 to 24 months ahead.
3. Trim the hours, not the quality. Fewer hours from someone whose work you love beats a full day from someone you’re unsure about.
4. Ask about payment plans. Many suppliers, ourselves included, let you spread the cost.
5. Check what’s included. Second shooters, travel, albums and extra hours can all add up.

If you have a budget in mind and aren’t sure how best to spend it, tell us about your day. We’ll happily give you an honest recommendation, even if it’s less than you expected to spend.

Sources: Bridebook budget breakdown; Bridebook photography prices; Bridebook videography prices; Hitched 2026 report. Figures checked October 2026.