If you're in the middle of wedding planning, you've probably realized that there’s a lot to budget for—venue, catering, outfits, décor, entertainment, and so much more. Somewhere along the way, the question comes up:
“How much should we set aside for a wedding photographer?”

It’s one of the most common questions couples ask—and for good reason. Photography is one of the only things you’ll have left after the day is over. That’s why I wanted to write this blog post: to help you understand what goes into wedding photography pricing in Ottawa and how to make the best decision for your day.

What’s the average cost for wedding photography in Ottawa?

The short answer?
Most couples in Ottawa spend anywhere between $3,500 and $7,000 for full-day wedding photography. Of course, that number can vary depending on a few key things like the photographer’s experience, how many hours of coverage you need, and what’s included in the package.

So what affects the price?

Let’s break it down.

1. How many hours you need

Some couples need just a few hours for a quick elopement or city hall wedding. Others want full-day coverage from getting ready in the morning all the way to the reception dance floor. Naturally, the more coverage you want, the higher the price will be.

2. What’s included in the package

Every photographer structures their packages differently. Some include an engagement shoot, others don’t. Some include a second photographer, a printed album, or a sneak peek gallery, while others offer those as add-ons.

Also, things like travel, extra hours, or rush editing may come with additional costs. It’s always worth asking what's included and what's optional.

3. Experience and style

Photographers who’ve been doing this for years, have strong portfolios, or a distinct editing style may charge more. But remember—you’re not just paying for photos. You’re paying for someone to guide you through the day, stay calm under pressure, work with all types of lighting, and deliver photos that feel timeless.

Why pricing can be confusing

Photography is one of those services that’s hard to compare based on numbers alone. Two photographers might charge a similar price but offer a completely different experience, approach, or end result.

Here’s something I always tell couples:
Don’t just ask “How much?”—also ask “What do I get?” and “How will I feel working with this person?”

You want someone you feel comfortable with, who understands your vision, and who can deliver photos you’ll love for years to come.

What to expect when working with Life Photos

At Life Photos, I don’t follow a one-size-fits-all approach. Every couple is different, and so is every wedding.

Whether you’re planning a small cultural ceremony, a full-day wedding, or a two-day celebration with multiple events, we’ll work together to create a package that makes sense for you.

All packages include:

A pre-wedding consultation to plan out your timeline and vision
A full online gallery to share with family and friends
Carefully edited, high-resolution images that you can print, post, and enjoy forever
My signature editing approach—true to life, vibrant, and timeless

I’m happy to talk through your options, walk you through my process, and help you decide what kind of coverage fits your day best.

Let’s talk about value—not just price

You can’t re-do your wedding day. That’s why I always encourage couples to think about value over price.

You’re not just paying for someone to show up with a camera. You’re hiring someone who can adapt to different lighting situations, organize group photos efficiently, capture emotion without being intrusive, and deliver a final gallery that tells the full story of your day.

Photography is one of the few wedding investments that actually grows in value over time.

Questions That Go Beyond the Portfolio

When you’re comparing photographers, it’s easy to focus on price or a highlight reel of pretty photos. But I always encourage couples to go one step further and ask about the things that aren’t as visible—but make all the difference.

Here are a few important questions worth asking:

How do you prepare for weddings from cultures or traditions you're less familiar with?
What’s it like hanging out with you?
What’s your process for backing up the photos after the wedding?
Do you carry backup cameras, lenses, and lighting in case something fails?

These may seem like small details—but when it’s your wedding day, they’re huge. A true professional isn't just there to take nice photos. They’re thinking ahead, adapting to the unexpected, and doing everything possible to protect your memories.

It's that level of preparation and intention that separates someone with a camera… from someone who’s truly in this for you.

Interested in working together?

If you're curious about working with Life Photos or want to know more about custom packages, I’d love to hear from you.
Whether you're deep in the planning process or just starting out, I'm happy to answer questions and help you figure out what makes the most sense for your day.

Click here to get in touch! Let’s make some memories.

Ottawa Wedding Photography: What You’re Really Paying For (And Why It Matters)