Want to save (some) money on your wedding photography? Then read on. While wedding photography is a crucial expense, many couples struggle to budget for it. Wedding costs can add up quickly and allocating funds for wedding photography may seem like a daunting task. However, with proper planning and strategic decisions, you can still have stunning wedding photos within your budget. If you’re planning a wedding in Italy and want to keep costs under control, here are some smart strategies to help you save money without compromising on both quality and peace of mind.

1. Hire a Local Photographer

We’re aware that lots of photographers like to travel to Italy offering discounted rates to couples getting married here, but actually one of the easiest ways to cut costs is by hiring a local photographer. By choosing a local photographer based in Italy you eliminate potential additional expenses while also managing the risks that naturally come with travel, with the added benefit of hiring an expert of the area that you’re getting married in (check out our previous post on why hiring a local wedding photographer is a smart choice!).

2. Opt for Partial-Day Coverage or for What Really Matters

While covering the entire wedding day is usually the standard choice for most couples, booking a smaller package might allow to capture the moments that matter the most while saving some money. Whether it is capturing just the ceremony, or shooting film, Polaroids… make that your priority and invest your budget in what really matters to you. Love Folio offers time-based packages ensuring you capture the most important part of your day without the cost of full-day coverage. Of course always discuss with your wedding planner and your wedding photographer if this is a feasible option for you and your needs.

3. Possibly Hiring One Photographer Instead of Two

Having two photographers provides excellent coverage and flexibility, documenting more angles of your wedding at the same time, but if your wedding is intimate or has a shorter timeline, a single skilled photographer can still capture all the essential moments beautifully. You might have to be ready to accept some degree of compromise on what gets captured, but in the chance of a one photographer package some professionals might be able to offer a slightly more affordable rate (not everyone though! Always check with them and compare price lists). At Love Folio we offer packages with both one and two photographers to suit most weddings and cater to a varied range of budgets.

4. Set a Feasible Budget

Be upfront with your budget, whatever big or small it might be. Before reaching out to photographers, determine what you can realistically afford and communicate that openly when shopping around. When sticking to a smaller budget you want to get the most for what you can spend. Photographers appreciate honesty and may be able to suggest a package or approach that aligns with your budget while still delivering beautiful results. If your wedding is in low season or on a less in-demand date, such as a weekday, they might be able to offer your a special rate (we often do that at Love Folio). And that’s why you really should

5. Plan Your Wedding in the Low Season or on a Weekday

Peak wedding season in Italy runs from late spring to early fall, with Saturdays being the most sought-after dates. If you’re flexible and are still in the planning process, consider booking your wedding in the off-season or on a weekday—some vendors, including photographers, may offer discounts for these dates when demand is lower. Just keep in mind that Fridays often fall into the weekend schedules because of weddings on multiple days, so Mondays to Thursdays may be a wiser choice for those on a tighter budget. And don’t forget the most overlooked season of all: Winter! Planning a winter wedding in many regions of Italy can be quite magical and allow you to get a nifty discount on your photography quote.

*The Winter wedding in Florence you didn’t know you wanted!*

6. Ask for a Custom Payment Plan

If your dream photographer is slightly out of budget, perhaps consider asking about a payment plan. Many professionals, including Love Folio, are open to designing instalment plans to make payments more manageable. Breaking the cost into smaller, scheduled payments can help ease financial stress while still allowing you to invest in quality photography. Once again, communication is key.

7. Don’t Go Free, okay? Just, don’t.

While it may be tempting to have a friend or amateur photographer capture your wedding for free, this decision often leads to regret. Investing in a skilled photographer guarantees high-quality images that you’ll cherish forever, rather than risking blurry, poorly framed, or missed shots that can’t be redone. Sometimes, spending no money could incur you in higher emotional costs and unfixable mistakes.

Extra tip: Ask about Weekend Packages

Couples planning on a multiple day wedding might find that booking a weekend package for a multi-day wedding can actually provide a cost effective solution. Many professionals offer bundled packages at very convenient rates for the two or three days vs the single day. Plus, having the same photographer across all events means a more cohesive storytelling approach, capturing the full essence of your celebration without the stress of asking family and friends.

*Weekend wedding schedules often include coverage a pizza party, morning after brunch, or additional pre and post wedding photo sessions.*

In conclusion, a well-planned approach to your wedding photography can secure quality memories without straining your budget. Options like weekend packages, researching local photographers, and selective coverage not only help manage costs but also ensure that your special day is documented thoughtfully. By discussing your needs and budget openly with your photographer, you can achieve a balanced, authentic record of your celebration that fits within your financial plans. With 13 years of experience in shooting destination weddings in Italy, we at Love Folio are always open to discuss your wishes and possibilities in all aspects of wedding photography, so you can talk to us with confidence and get the most out of your photography budget.

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How to save (some) money on your destination wedding photography in Italy