10 Ways to Save Money on Your Wedding Photography & Videography in 2025

Your wedding photos and videos are the most lasting investment from your big day, but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to get high-quality visuals. Whether you're planning a wedding in Orange County or anywhere in 2025, there are plenty of ways to save money on photography and videography without sacrificing quality.

1. Book Early to Lock in Rates

Many wedding photographers and videographers offer early booking discounts. If you book 12–18 months in advance, you’re more likely to lock in current pricing before rates increase.

💡 Pro Tip: Peak wedding season (spring & summer) is more expensive—consider off-season weddings (winter & early spring) for better deals.

2. Choose a Photography & Videography Package

Instead of hiring a separate photographer and videographer, look for a company that offers both services in a bundle. Not only does this save money, but it also ensures seamless coordination between your photo and video teams.

📸 Example: Shoreline Weddings provides photo + video combo package discounts, helping couples save while getting a consistent style and experience.

3. Limit Coverage Hours

Instead of booking a full-day package, opt for a 6–8 hour package that covers the most important moments, such as: ✔️ First look or pre-ceremony moments
✔️ Ceremony & group photos
✔️ Key reception moments (first dance, speeches, cake cutting)

This helps reduce hourly rates without missing essential memories.

4. Skip the Engagement Session (or Bundle It)

Some photographers offer discounted engagement sessions when booked with a wedding package. If it’s not essential for you, skipping the engagement shoot can save $200-500.

💡 Budget Tip: If an engagement session is important, ask about weekday discounts or mini-sessions.

5. Opt for Digital-Only Packages

While wedding albums and prints are beautiful keepsakes, they add to the cost. Many photographers offer digital-only packages, where you receive high-resolution edited photos for online viewing and personal printing.

📌 Savings: Skipping an album can save you $500–$1,500.

6. Trim the Shot List

The more posed and complex shots you request, the longer it takes to shoot and edit. Keep it simple with must-have shots, such as: ✔️ Ceremony & first kiss
✔️ Family & bridal party photos
✔️ Couple portraits & reception highlights

This allows your photographer to work efficiently without adding extra costs for extended shooting time.

7. Choose a Local Photographer

Many wedding photographers charge travel fees if your venue is outside their service area. Hiring a local photographer eliminates these costs and ensures they know the best locations for stunning photos.

📍 Example: If you’re getting married in Orange County, hire a local OC wedding photographer like Shoreline Weddings to avoid unnecessary travel fees.

8. Skip a Second Shooter (If You Don’t Need One)

Having a second photographer is great for extra angles, but not always necessary for smaller weddings (under 50 guests). Ask if your primary photographer can cover the key moments alone to save up to $500 or more

9. Opt for a Documentary-Style Edit for Video

If you're booking wedding videography, consider a documentary-style edit instead of an elaborate cinematic film. This format keeps more natural audio, fewer effects, and a streamlined edit, reducing post-production costs.

Check out this sample Documentary-Style Video Edit:

📌 Budget Tip: Purchase raw footage if you’d like to DIY your own edits later.

10. Take Advantage of Referral Discounts

Some photography studios offer discounts if you refer friends or book services for multiple events (e.g., engagement, rehearsal dinner, or family portraits).

💡 Pro Tip: Ask your wedding photographer if they offer a referral program or bundle discounts.

Plan Your Dream Wedding on a Budget

📲 Looking for an affordable Orange County wedding photographer & videographer? Let Shoreline Weddings capture your love story without breaking your budget. Explore our customizable photo & video packages for 2025 weddings.

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📍 Serving All Wedding Locations in OC: Irvine, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Dana Point, San Clemente & More!