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The Wedding Planning & Photography Pricing Guide

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By Lauren Nicole Schlesselman

 

Everything you need to know before hiring a wedding photographer you can trust.

Hey, I’m Lauren — owner, lead photographer, timeline strategist, and your new hype girl with mad camera skills. I created this guide to help you feel empowered and informed as you plan your wedding.

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I know how overwhelming the wedding world can feel. There are a million decisions, opinions, and vendor options. This guide is my way of making things simple. I'm here to help you understand what to look for, what to expect, and why your photographer matters more than you think. If you want images that feel like you and an experience that’s organized, calming, and joyful from start to finish, you’re in the right place.

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Questions You Should Be Asking

You deserve a wedding photographer who knows what they’re doing. Here are the questions you should be asking — and how I answer them:

  • Are you insured? Yes — I carry $1M in general liability coverage, which many venues actually require. I’m happy to send a Certificate of Insurance upon request.

  • What gear do you use? I shoot with top-tier Canon mirrorless cameras and lenses. My gear is valued at over $25,000 and insured through State Farm.

  • Do you use dual card slots? Absolutely. Every image I take is backed up twice in-camera the moment I press the shutter.

  • Do you have contracts and backups? Yes and yes. Every couple receives a professional, legally vetted contract and your images are backed up across multiple systems after the wedding.

  • Can you provide vendor recommendations and timeline help? Absolutely. I help build the photography timeline with you during our wedding kickoff call, and I’m happy to share trusted vendors.

When you're trusting someone with your once-in-a-lifetime memories, professionalism matters. I’m not just a creative — I’m also here to protect your investment and your memories.

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The Booking Process

1. Discovery Call – A relaxed, no-pressure chat to get to know each other and answer your questions.

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2. Custom Proposal – I’ll send over a tailored proposal with a few flexible options.

 

3. Booking – You secure your date with a digitally signed contract and $1,000 retainer.

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4. Planning Begins – We’ll celebrate checking this to-do off of your list and plan your Wedding Kickoff Call to map out your photography experience and prep your day-of timeline.

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Sample Wedding Day Timeline

Here’s an example full-day of wedding day coverage happening at the same location:

  • 1:00 PM – Getting Ready (once hair/makeup is nearly done)

  • 2:30 PM – First Look + Couple Portraits

  • 3:15 PM – Wedding Party Photos

  • 4:00 PM – Immediate Family

  • 4:30 PM – Relax + Freshen Up as Guests Arrive

  • 5:00 PM – Ceremony

  • 5:30 PM – Cocktail Hour / Candid Coverage

  • 6:30 PM – Reception Begins

  • 7:30 PM – First Dances / Cake

  • 8:00 PM – Photographer Wraps

I typically stay until the major events are complete — not until the end of the night.

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How to Choose Your Photographer

The right photographer does more than take pretty pictures — they make the experience seamless from start to finish. Look for someone with consistent, real client work (not just styled shoots), who uses professional gear and has reliable backups. Make sure they offer a clear contract, guide you through planning, deliver full galleries on time, and most importantly — treat you like a human, not just another booking.

Red Flags to Avoid 🚩

These are common warning signs to look out for when hiring a photographer, if you spot more than one of these, it may be time to keep searching:​

• No contract outlining services, deliverables, or protections
• Poor or delayed communication throughout the process
• No insurance or image backup systems in place
• Inconsistent editing style or an outdated portfolio
• Vague or overly discounted pricing with no clear offer
• Lack of understanding around lighting, posing, or timelines

My job is to document your wedding day with a mix of artistry and calm leadership.

 

I’m not just here to take pretty pictures; I’m here to help the day feel better, too.You’ll get gentle posing when needed, tons of candid moments, and honest direction when things start running behind.

 

No stress, no awkward energy — just solid support and beautiful, timeless images.I’m not just a creative — I’m also here to protect your investment and your memories. 

 

You want a photographer who can roll with the day and still capture what matters most — and that’s exactly where I thrive. My approach is calm, clear, and connection-focused. I believe the best images come from trust, not pressure.

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I’ll help guide you when needed, ease nerves in high-stress moments, and give direction that feels natural (no robotic posing here). Whether we’re chasing golden light or rearranging timelines on the fly, I’m there to adapt and protect your peace.

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I’m not just a creative... I’m your calm in the chaos, your bonus bridesmaid with a camera, and a professional who’s all in on getting this right for you.

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What to Expect From Me

 

✓ Sneak peeks within 48 hours
✓ Full gallery within 4 weeks
✓ Vendor recommendations
✓ Timeline planning call
✓ Albums + print shop options available post-wedding

Real Client Love

 

“Lauren was PHENOMENAL. Our day wouldn’t have been the same without her.” – Jessica E. (2024)


“She stayed calm, guided us through chaos, and gave us the most magical gallery.” – Sainy A. (2021)


“Her eye and presence made us feel like stars.” – Katlin W. (2017)

Pricing Overview

Most couples invest between $4,000–$5,000 depending on coverage and add-ons. Each level adds meaningful value in $500 increments — such as a second photographer, an engagement session, or heirloom products.

FULL DAY COVERAGE BEGINS AT $3,500.

Included with Full-Day Coverage:

  • Coverage from getting ready through first dances

  • One photographer (Lauren)

  • Timeline planning call + engagement planning support

  • High-resolution image gallery + print release

Optional Add-Ons:

  • Second Photographer – +$500

  • Engagement Session – +$500

  • Rehearsal Dinner Coverage – +$500

  • Luxe Album & Guest Book – custom options 

  • Albums and fine art wall prints can be purchased after receiving your gallery, starting at $250.

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Engagement Session Tips

Engagement sessions are one of my favorite ways to get to know you both before the big day, and they help you get comfortable in front of the camera. It’s relaxed, fun, and gives us a chance to explore your connection without any timeline pressure. Plus, you'll walk away with beautiful photos that celebrate your relationship at this unique stage in your life.

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Choose a location that feels like you... whether it’s a golden field, downtown rooftop, or cozy coffee shop. I’ll guide you through gentle posing and prompt real moments of joy, laughter, and love. Bring your dog, pop some champagne, or just show up in outfits that make you feel confident and timeless. No stress, I’ve got you.

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Below, you’ll find a few favorite sessions from past couples to help inspire your own:

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A Contract That Protects You

My contract is designed to give you peace of mind and protect both of us throughout the planning process and beyond:

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  • Outlines turnaround time, cancellation terms, model release, and reschedules

  • Protects your privacy — I’ll always honor a written request to keep your images offline

  • Ensures fair use of images for both client and artist

  • Clearly states contingency plans in case of emergencies or illness — including trusted backup photographer options if I am ever unable to attend (which has never happened, but is covered!)

  • Includes image protection policies: images are backed up on-site and off-site, and I do not delete raw files until after your gallery is delivered

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This level of transparency and protection is why I only take on a select number of weddings each year — to give you the attention and security you deserve.

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Let’s Talk

Ready to feel fully supported in your wedding photography experience? Let’s schedule a call to talk through your day and make sure I’m the right fit.

 

Once you fill out the form, you’ll be redirected to confirm your date, schedule a discovery call, and download a full pricing guide. I’ll follow up personally so we can move forward, or answer any lingering questions.

Complete this form to check availability and receive a tailored quote for your wedding day. From there, you’ll get access to my full planning experience and next steps.

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