Why are Wedding Photography Costs so High?
It's a statement often heard. Yes - some photographers charge really high prices, so why so high? Besides their skill levels and artistry, professionals are like anyone else running a business and they have expenses. These are some of the more usual overheads associated with running this type of business and go some way to explaining why even modest professionals charge what they do. EquipmentThis is the major expense with digital cameras costing £3000 - £5000 each along with various lenses at £1000 each - it is easy to rack up £20,000 with spare camera bodies, flashguns, lighting systems, laptops and much more. Technology is moving on so fast these days that replacement is inevitable every few years.Add in the cost of running a studio with specialist lighting and props and you have a very large sum to insure. TrainingMost professionals will have graduated through a training scheme of one sort or another.Ranging from university degrees through franchisees to membership of professional associations. The cost of a franchise, for example, can amount to about £10,000 with annual ongoing fees. Not only that, there will be ongoing expenses connected with post qualifying training, attending seminars and trade exhibitions. Business ExpensesTax @ 40% plus National Insurance, so for a £1000 wedding, the Taxman wants over £400! This a simplified example and, of course, expenses are allowable to reduce the actual tax that is paid.Business rates vary for studios. Public liability insurance and equipment insurance accounts for about £500 - £1000 per year. AdvertisingBusinesses can spend a small fortune on advertising and at least £2000 as a minimum.Return from Wedding Photography Costs to Prices page
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