How Much Does A Wedding Photographer in Coloradao Cost?

How Much Do Wedding Photographers in Colorado Cost? (And What Are You Actually Paying For?)

Planning a wedding comes with a lot of sticker shock moments — florals, rentals, postage stamps (why so expensive?!), and yes… photography.

So let’s talk numbers. If you're Googling “how much does a wedding photographer in Colorado cost?” you’re not alone — and you're not being cheap, you're being smart. But this isn’t just about dollars. It’s about value, experience, and the story you’ll get to relive for years.

The Short Answer:

Most professional wedding photographers in Colorado charge anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000.

That wide range depends on things like:

  • Coverage hours

  • Number of photographers

  • Experience level

  • Travel or location (mountain elopement vs downtown Denver)

  • Extras like albums, second shooters, or engagement sessions

The Real Answer:

You're not just paying for someone to show up with a camera.

You’re investing in:

  • Someone who knows how to handle unpredictable Colorado light (hello, 20-minute rainstorms and the state with the sixth most sunny days in the country)

  • A photographer who makes you feel like yourself in front of the camera

  • Timeline help, location scouting, outfit advice, and emotional support when your uncle says something weird at dinner

  • 8-12 hours of shooting + 30–50 hours of editing, culling, backing up files, and delivering your gallery

  • A storytelling style that makes you feel the day all over again

A Rough Breakdown:

Elopement (2–4 hours) $2,000 – $5,000. Typically includes planning help, one photographer, location scouting

Full Day (6-8 hrs) $4,000 – $8,000. Typically includes 1–2 photographers, engagement session, online gallery

Luxury Packages (8+ hours) $7,000+ More inclusive packages. Typically includes two photographers, engagement session or custom album, travel coverage, rehearsal dinner, etc.

What About Me?

I’m Kate — a wedding & elopement photographer based in Denver. My full-day wedding packages typically range from $4,500 to $7,200, and include:

  • At least 8 hours of coverage

  • Me (and often my partner, Taylor) as your photo hype team

  • Sneak peeks within a few days

  • An online gallery you can share with everyone who cried during your vows

  • Some packages include all weekend coverage, engagement sessions and credits towards albums and prints

Final Thoughts: It’s More Than a Price Tag

Yes, it’s important to stay within your budget when planning your wedding. I recommend sitting down together and chatting about your priorities - and what you really want to spend money on and what maybe isn’t as important to you. Your wedding photographer is one of the only vendors who is with you all day — from champagne-sipping to late-night dance floor mayhem. You want someone who gets your vibe, hypes you up, and documents the day as it really felt.

So yes, ask about cost. But also ask:

  • Do I like this person?

  • Do I trust their eye?

  • Do their photos make me feel something?

Because long after the cake is eaten and the flowers have wilted — your photos are what you’ll have to hold it all.

Need help figuring out what coverage you actually need?
I’m always happy to walk through your timeline and give an honest recommendation (even if we don’t end up working together). Reach out here!

Kate Ivy

An adventure photographer based in Denver. 

https://www.kateivyphotography.com
Previous
Previous

Why Hiring a Queer‑Owned Wedding Photographer in Denver Matters

Next
Next

Juniper Lodge and Treehouses: A Look into a Favorite Colorado Venue