Wedding Photography in Lower Hutt

Ask to see 2-3 full galleries (not just highlights), confirm hours of coverage and edited-image count, ask about backup equipment and a plan if they fall ill, check the delivery timeline, and confirm the deposit, balance and cancellation terms in writing.

Popular photographers book 12-18 months ahead for peak-season dates, so start early once your date and venue are set. A deposit secures the date; the balance is due before or on the day. Leaving it late narrows you to whoever's still free, not who's best for you.

Typically the hours of coverage, an online gallery of edited high-resolution images, and personal print/usage rights. Second shooter, engagement session, printed album, and extra hours are common add-ons. Always confirm how many edited images you receive and the delivery timeline.

Packages scale with hours of coverage and experience. A half-day or elopement package is the entry point; a full-day standard package with an online gallery and edited images is the middle; a premium package with two shooters, an album and engagement shoot is the top. Experience level moves the price more than anything else.

No contract, only showing highlight reels rather than full weddings, no backup gear or illness contingency, vague on how many images you'll get, and demanding full payment far in advance. A pro insures their work and has a plan for the day going wrong.

Full-day packages typically run NZD 2,200-5,500, with newer photographers below and established ones above.