What's a typical photography budget for a 100-guest wedding?

2026 US averages, by tier:

Entry/associate ($1,500-2,800): 4-8 hours, online gallery, no album. Often a photographer in their first 1-3 years or an associate from a larger studio.

Mid-market ($3,000-5,500): 8 hours, second shooter optional, online gallery + sneak peek + maybe a print credit. Most established solo photographers fall here. Sweet spot for a 100-guest wedding.

Upper-mid ($5,500-8,500): 8-10 hours, second shooter included, engagement session, album included or credit toward one, more polished branding/experience.

Luxury ($8,500-15,000+): destination-capable, hand-curated edits, full album + heirloom prints, often a recognizable brand in your market. Two-day coverage common.

What affects pricing:

• Geography: NYC/LA/SF run 30-50% higher than national average. Texas/Midwest tend lower.
• Saturday vs weekday: Saturday is 100% of pricing, Friday/Sunday usually 70-85%.
• Peak season (May-Oct): 100%, off-season 70-80%.
• Experience: 7+ years experience generally commands a 30-50% premium over 1-3 years for similar coverage.

For 100 guests at single venue, I'd expect $3,500-5,500 to be the right zone. Below $2,500 you're likely getting an underexperienced shooter. Above $8,000 you're paying for brand and album as much as the work.