How Much Does a Wedding Photographer Cost on Long Island and in the Hamptons?
"How much does a wedding photographer cost?" is one of the first questions couples ask, and it makes sense. Photography is one of the biggest line items in a wedding budget, and prices can vary a lot.
Here's a clear look at what wedding photography costs on Long Island and in the Hamptons, what drives the price, and what you should expect to get for it.
The National Average (and Why It's Only a Starting Point)
According to The Knot's Real Weddings Study of couples who married in 2025, the average cost of a wedding photographer in the US is about $3,000. In the Northeast and New England, the average is higher, around $3,700.
Those numbers are useful, but they're averages across every kind of wedding, including small, short, and budget weddings. For a full-day wedding on Long Island or in the Hamptons with an experienced photographer, you should expect to pay more than that.
What Drives the Price of Wedding Photography
Hours of coverage
A 4-hour package and a 10-hour package are very different jobs. Most couples who want getting ready, the ceremony, portraits, and the reception need at least 8 hours.
A second photographer
Two photographers means both sides get covered while getting ready, and you get more angles during the ceremony and reception. It's one of the biggest upgrades you can make.
Film and digital
Film photography takes more time, more materials, and more skill. It gives a timeless, organic look that a lot of couples love. If you want film, expect it to cost more than digital-only coverage.
Experience and portfolio
A photographer who has shot dozens of weddings at your kind of venue knows the light, the layout, and where things can go wrong. That experience is part of what you're paying for.
Location and season
Peak season on the East End, especially summer and fall Saturdays, books up fast. Travel to the Hamptons, Montauk, or the North Fork can also add time and cost.
Extras
Engagement sessions, albums, rehearsal dinner coverage, and extra hours can all change the total.
What's Included With My Wedding Photography
My full wedding days start at $8,000 and include:
8 hours of wedding coverage
Film and digital images
Two photographers
An engagement session
You can see the details on my services page.
Questions to Ask Any Photographer You're Considering
How many hours are included, and what does extra time cost?
Is a second photographer included?
Is an engagement session included?
How will I get my photos, and when?
Have you worked at my venue or one like it?
Can I see a full wedding gallery, not just highlights?
I go deeper on this in my complete guide to finding a wedding photographer on Long Island.
Is It Worth It?
The flowers and food are gone by the end of the night. Your photos are what you'll look at for the rest of your life, and what your kids and grandkids will see. That's why so many couples put photography near the top of their budget.
Read what my couples have said on my reviews page, or browse real weddings to see full days from start to finish.
Let's Talk About Your Wedding
Every wedding is a little different. Tell me about your date, venue, and what matters most to you, and I'll put together options that fit.