Confessions of a Wedding Photographer: Why “Cheap” Isn’t Always a Bargain
If you’re in any local Facebook group or wedding planning forum, you’ve probably seen posts like:
- “Looking for a photographer with reasonable prices!”
- “In need of a cheap photographer for my wedding.”
- Or my personal favorite: “Seeking a photographer who doesn’t charge an arm and a leg.”
As a professional wedding and portrait photographer based in Charleston, I understand where these sentiments come from. Weddings are expensive. Everyone’s looking for a deal.
But here’s the truth that’s often misunderstood: photographers like me aren’t getting rich off our prices. What you’re paying for goes far beyond just showing up with a camera and clicking a button.
Let’s pull back the curtain and talk about what it really costs to run a legitimate photography business — and why investing in a professional matters more than you might think.
The Real Cost of Doing Business
Running Ashley Painter Photography LLC isn’t just about taking beautiful photos (though I’m deeply passionate about that part!). It’s about operating a fully legal, insured, and professional business — which comes with many ongoing expenses.
Here’s just a partial list of what I pay for to keep serving my clients with excellence:
- 📸 Gear & Equipment
- Two professional cameras
- Multiple lenses and lighting setups
- High-capacity SD cards, hard drives, and fast computers
- Backup gear and replacements
- Batteries, maintenance, and storage systems
- 🧰 Business Infrastructure
- Business and liability insurance
- Contracts drafted by legal professionals
- Licenses and registrations
- Website and gallery hosting fees
- Editing software and cloud storage
- 🚗 Logistics & Operations
- Gas, mileage, and vehicle insurance
- Travel, meals, and accommodations for destination weddings
- Childcare for my own family while I’m serving yours
- 📚 Growth & Professionalism
- Continuing education
- Conferences, expos, and networking events
- Branded clothing, client gifts, and props
These are just the essentials — not including the hours of work that go into consultations, planning, shooting, culling, editing, delivering, and following up with every client.
What You’re Really Paying For
When you book a professional photographer, you’re not just paying for pictures. You’re investing in:
- Legal protection: You get a legally binding contract that protects your investment and outlines what you can expect.
- Peace of mind: I carry liability insurance so you’re not financially responsible in the rare event something goes wrong.
- Experience & reliability: You’re hiring someone who has backup gear, backup systems, and backup plans — because once-in-a-lifetime moments don’t get do-overs.
- Quality & care: From posing guidance to lighting setups to seamless editing, everything is done with intention and professionalism.
“Cheap” Photography Often Comes at a Higher Cost
The tough truth? Many budget photographers are skipping these business essentials to keep their prices low — but at your risk.
Without insurance, you could be left with no recourse if an accident happens. Without a contract, you could be ghosted with no legal standing. Without proper gear or training, you might end up with photos that are poorly lit, badly composed, or even lost altogether.
Cheap pricing often reflects cheap preparation — and cheap results.
Compassion Meets Professionalism
At Ashley Painter Photography LLC, I believe in accessibility and compassion. My business model allows me to serve high-end clients while also giving back to low-income families with dignity and heart. But even when I donate time or services, I never cut corners on quality.
So if you’re planning your wedding and want timeless, heartfelt photos — backed by professionalism, experience, and soul — I’d be honored to talk.
Your memories matter too much to gamble on a bargain.
