How Much Does Wedding Photography Cost in Ireland - 2026?
If you're recently engaged and starting to plan your Irish wedding, congratulations! And if you're already feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the decisions ahead, you're absolutely not alone. One of the first questions couples ask me is: "How much should we budget for wedding photography?"
It's a fair question. Wedding photography prices in Ireland can feel like a bit of a mystery until you start digging into it. You'll find photographers offering packages from €1,500 all the way up to €7,000 or more. So what's the actual average? And more importantly, what are you actually getting for your spend?
I've been photographing weddings across Dublin and Ireland for over 10 years now and I've seen how the market works from the inside. In this guide, I'll do my best to walk you through the real costs of wedding photography in 2026, what influences those prices and how to figure out what's right for you. No fluff, no sales pitch. Just honest information to help you make a confident decision.
What's the Average Cost of Wedding Photography in Ireland in 2026?
Let's start with the numbers. Based on current market research and conversations with couples and fellow photographers, here's what you can expect to pay for wedding photography in Ireland in 2026:
€2,000 to €4,000 is the typical range for full-day wedding photography coverage with an experienced professional photographer. This usually includes digital images from your full wedding day, online gallery delivery and professional editing.
€5,000 and above is where you'll find the high end, luxury, award-winning photographers with extensive portfolios, distinctive styles and often additional services like albums, second shooters, or luxury presentation options.
Under €2,000 packages do exist, often from newer photographers building their portfolios or those offering shorter coverage periods. You may also see offers around €1,200 or below, it’s worth approaching those with caution. At that price point it’s usually a sign of very limited experience, minimal coverage or a lack of professional standards. Your wedding photography is one of the few investments from your day that will last a lifetime, so it’s always worth choosing someone with the skill and experience to deliver work you’ll love for years to come..
Dublin wedding photography prices tend to sit at the higher end of these ranges, simply because of the concentration of experienced photographers and the higher operating costs in the capital. But you'll find talented photographers at every price point across the country.
It's worth noting that these are starting prices. Most couples end up investing a bit more once they add extras like wedding albums, additional hours, or a second photographer. But we'll get into all of that in a moment.
What Influences Wedding Photography Costs?
You might be wondering why there's such a range in pricing. It's not just about someone with a nice camera showing up on the day. Here are the main factors that affect what you'll pay:
Experience and Reputation
A photographer who's been shooting weddings for years, who's won awards and been published in magazines will typically charge more than someone just starting out. And honestly? That experience matters. Undesrtanding the beats of a wedding day, knowing how to read light in any weather, anticipate moments before they happen and stay calm when the timeline goes sideways (which it often does) comes with years of practice.
I've been fortunate enough to win a few awards myself and photograph weddings at some incredible Irish venues. That experience means I can handle whatever your wedding day throws at me, whether it's torrential rain at Powerscourt Hotel or tricky lighting in a historic church.
Hours of Coverage
This is probably the biggest factor in pricing. A four-hour elopement package will cost significantly less than twelve-forteen hours of full wedding day coverage. Most Irish weddings need between eight and ten hours to cover everything from getting ready through to the first dance and some evening celebrations.
If you're not sure how long you'll need, I've written a detailed guide about planning your wedding day timeline that might help you figure it out.
Location and Travel
If you're getting married in Dublin where a photographer is based, there's usually no travel fee. But if your wedding is at a stunning spot like KIlshane House in County Tipperary or you're planning a destination wedding in the West of Ireland, many photographers will add a travel charge to cover time and expenses.
For destination weddings in Ireland, particularly in remote or scenic locations, this is something to factor into your budget. Though I'll be honest, I never mind the travel when it means photographing a couple against the backdrop of the Cliffs of Moher or the Dingle Peninsula.
Extras and Add-Ons
Most photographers offer a base package, then give you the option to add extras. These might include:
Second photographer: Another set of eyes capturing different angles and moments simultaneously
Wedding albums: Professionally designed, high-quality printed albums
Engagement shoots: A pre-wedding session to get comfortable in front of the camera
Content creator: Someone filming behind-the-scenes video content for social media
Express delivery: Getting your photos back faster than the standard turnaround
Film photography: For couples who love that classic, timeless aesthetic
Wall art: Prints, canvases, or frames for your home
You can see all my available add-ons here if you're curious about what extras might enhance your package.
Photography Costs by Coverage Type
Different types of weddings need different levels of coverage. Here's a rough breakdown:
Intimate Weddings and Half-Day Coverage
For smaller celebrations, registry office weddings, or couples who just want coverage of the ceremony and some portraits, you're typically looking at €1,500 to €2,500. This usually includes four to six hours of coverage.
Full Wedding Day Coverage
This is the most popular option. Usually around ten hours covering getting ready, ceremony, drinks reception, couple portraits, family photos, speeches, first dance and some evening celebrations. Expect to pay €3,000 to €5,000 depending on the photographer's experience and what's included.
Elopements
Elopement packages are often priced separately and can range from €1,200 to €3,000. These typically include a few hours of coverage for the ceremony and portraits in a beautiful location. Ireland has become such a popular elopement destination, and there's something magical about photographing two people saying their vows on a clifftop with nobody else around.
Destination Weddings in Ireland
If you're bringing guests from abroad for a destination wedding in Ireland, photography costs are similar to local weddings, but you'll need to factor in travel and possibly accommodation for your photographer. Many destination wedding packages start around €3,000 and go up from there.
Some of my favourite destination wedding venues include The K Club in Kildare and Clonabreany House in Meath. Both offer that perfect blend of Irish charm and luxury that international couples seem to love. for IRish folks getting married abroad, some of my favorite venues include Tuscany in Italy and Paris, France (with the added bonus that I speak fluent French)
Kevin Kheffache Photography 2026/27 Packages
Right, I should probably tell you about my own packages at this point. I offer a range of options to suit different wedding styles and budgets, from intimate celebrations to full luxury wedding days.
My 2026 and 2027 packages range from €1,650 to €5,950. Each package includes:
Full-day or customised coverage hours
High-resolution digital images
Professional editing in my signature natural style
Private online gallery for easy sharing
Print release (so you can print your photos wherever you like)
Professionally designed and printed wedding albums
Pre-wedding consultation call
The price difference mainly comes down to coverage hours, whether a second photographer is included and if you want other physical products & add-ons included from the start.
I also offer optional extras like:
Premium wedding albums and parent albums
Canvas prints and wall art
Content creator services for social media footage
Film photography for that timeless aesthetic
Express editing and delivery
You can see the full breakdown of my packages here.
What I will say is this: I never want price to be the only factor in your decision. I'd much rather you choose a photographer whose work you genuinely love and whose personality fits with yours. You're going to spend your entire wedding day with this person, so it matters that you get along.
Why Wedding Photography is Worth the Investment
I know wedding costs add up quickly. Believe me, I've been there myself. But here's the thing about photography: it's the one part of your wedding that actually increases in value over time.
Your flowers will wilt. The cake will be eaten. Even that stunning dress will end up in storage. But your photos? They become more precious with every passing year.
I've had couples tell me they look at their wedding photos more often than they expected. Some have them as screensavers. Others have albums that live on the coffee table and get pulled out whenever family visits. A few have told me that during tough times in their marriage, looking back at their wedding photos reminded them of why they fell in love in the first place.
My approach is all about natural, documentary-style photography. I'm not going to pose you awkwardly or take you away from your guests for hours. I want to capture your day as it actually unfolds, the real moments, the laughter, the tears (happy ones, hopefully), the chaos, the joy. That's what you'll want to remember in twenty years.
Whether your wedding is at the elegant Merrion Hotel in Dublin city centre or a rustic barn venue in the countryside, the goal is the same: to tell your unique story authentically.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should You Book a Wedding Photographer in Ireland?
As soon as you've set your date and pciked your venue, honestly. The best photographers in Ireland book out 12 to 18 months in advance, sometimes longer for popular summer wedding dates. If you've found a photographer whose work you love, don't wait. I've had couples contact me before setting their date to make sure I was free to cover their wedding on their planned date. I’ve been booked 3 years before in advance because they didn't want to risk missing out.
That said, I often have last-minute availability for midweek weddings or off-season dates, so it's always worth asking even if your wedding is coming up soon.
Why Are Wedding Photographers So Expensive?
I get this question a lot, and it's completely fair. When you just see the final price, it can feel steep. But here's what goes into it:
A typical wedding day for me is 10-12 hours of shooting, followed by 20-30 hours of editing and processing hundreds of images. I often take 8000+ images at a wedding. Then there's the cost of professional equipment (cameras, lenses, lighting, backups), insurance, software subscriptions, website hosting, marketing and ongoing training to stay current with techniques and technology.
When you break it down hourly, most wedding photographers are earning way less than you might think. We do it because we love it, not because we're getting rich.
How Much Should I Budget for Wedding Photography in Dublin?
I'd recommend setting aside 10-15% of your total wedding budget for photography. For an average Irish wedding costing around €30,000, that means €3,000 to €4,500 for photography.
If you're having a more intimate celebration or your budget is tighter, €2,000 to €3,000 will still get you a coverage from a talented photographer. The key is deciding what matters most to you and allocating your budget accordingly.
Is a Second Photographer Worth It?
For larger weddings (100+ guests) or weddings at bigger venues, I'd say yes. A second photographer means we can cover both partners getting ready simultaneously, capture the ceremony from multiple angles and document different moments happening at the same time during the reception.
For smaller, intimate weddings, one photographer is usually plenty. Esepcially if you’re both getting ready at the same place It really depends on your venue size, guest count and what's important to you.
Do I Need a Wedding Album?
Need? No. But I strongly recommend one. There's something special about holding a tangible album in your hands, turning physical pages, showing your parents or children your wedding day. Digital galleries are convenient, but albums become family heirlooms.
Most of my couples who initially skip the album end up ordering one a year or two later. If budget is tight on the wedding day, you can always add it later. The images aren't going anywhere.
Ready to Chat About Your Wedding Photography?
So there you have it. The real story of wedding photography costs in Ireland in 2026. I hope this guide has given you a clearer picture (pun absolutely intended) of what to expect and how to make the best decision for your wedding.
Every couple is different and every wedding is unique. What matters most is finding a photographer whose style resonates with you and whose personality you connect with. Someone who'll make you feel comfortable, capture your day authentically and deliver images you'll treasure forever.
If you'd like to see more of my work, have a browse through my portfolio and explore my packages. And if you think we might be a good fit, I'd love to hear about your wedding plans. No pressure, no obligation. Just a friendly chat about your big day and how I might be able to help capture it.
Get in touch whenever you're ready. I'm here to answer any questions and help you figure out what's right for you.
All the best with your planning!
Kevin
If you’re drawn to natural, candid photography, you might enjoy my post on how street photography shapes my documentary wedding style