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What you should know about wedding photographers

  • Writer: Vanessa
    Vanessa
  • Apr 7
  • 3 min read

Months — or even years — of planning, and suddenly the wedding day passes faster than expected. What remains are the memories captured in photos and videos. As a wedding planner, I see time and time again how crucial it is to choose the right photo and video team. Not just for beautiful images, but for real emotions and moments you might not even notice yourselves.


Couple during their elopement
Collecting the right moments is essential on your wedding day. Photo: Gloria Velvet

How much does a wedding photographer cost and how do you find the right one?


Prices vary greatly depending on experience, style, and the length of coverage. For content, check out the street survey by my colleague Lucas Martin. Typical price ranges in Switzerland are:


  • Civil wedding (approx. 4 hours): CHF 1'900-2'300 CHF

  • Half-day wedding (8 hours): 4'000-5'800 CHF

  • Full-day (12+ hours): 5'000–7’000+ CHF


The price differences mainly reflect the photographer’s experience. These memories last a lifetime — so don’t decide based only on price. Pay attention to the following:

Full Gallery

Reviews

Persönliches Connection

Not just Instagram! Ask to see a complete wedding gallery — from getting ready to the party. This shows how the photographer handles light, group photos, and storytelling.

Look for genuine feedback from couples. It reveals how reliable, calm, and professional someone works on a wedding day.



You’ll spend many hours together — chemistry matters. You’ll feel immediately whether it’s a good fit.

How many hours should I book?

Groom Getting Ready
When getting‑ready coverage is included, you receive intimate insights into the start of the day — moments your partner often doesn’t get to see. Photo: Gloria Velvet

Many photographers work with packages. The ideal duration depends on what matters most to you and how your wedding timeline is structured. During an initial consultation, discuss what you want to have captured.


  • Elopement (2-3 hours): Getting Ready, ceremony, couple session, cake cutting


  • Civil Wedding (4 hours):  Ceremony, couple photos, small group photos, part of the aperitif


  • Full-day wedding reportage (8 - 12+ hours): Getting Ready, ceremony, aperitif, dinner, first dance, and the start of the party


Most photographers allow you to add an extra hour spontaneously on the wedding day if you feel you want more captured.


Tip: It’s better to plan one hour too many than to miss important moments. Don’t forget transfer times and breaks.


Videographer vs. Content Creator – What’s the difference?

The demand for wedding videos increases every year. Yet many couples still don’t know the difference between a videographer and a content creator. Both deliver completely different results.

Videographer CHF 4'000-8'000+

Content Creator CHF 1'500-3'000

  • Professional camera equipment

  • Highlight film

  • Longer wedding films

  • Drone footage

  • Detailed post‑production

  • Smartphone

  • Reels, TikToks, BTS content

  • Fast delivery (24–72h)

  • Social‑media‑focused

  • Captures candid moments throughout the day


Smooth wedding day

As a planner, I coordinate the schedule so your wedding photos can be created calmly — without you missing moments with your loved ones. Here’s what I recommend:


Group Photos

  • Plan at least 20–30 minutes

  • Nominate a reliable friend to help gather people

Golden Hour

  • One hour before sunset — elegant and atmospheric

  • Note: Often during dinner — make sure your guests are entertained

Blue Hour

  • Directly after sunset


Sunlight

  • Avoid harsh midday sun

  • Tip: Plan your ceremony for late afternoon

Weather Backup

  • Covered areas, indoor spaces with natural light, umbrellas

  • A good wedding photographer can create magic in any weather


Group photos at a wedding
Group photos can be formal...
Fun wedding group photos
or fun. Photos: Mary Fernandez

The right photos come from good planning

A wedding photographer doesn’t just press the shutter. They accompany you from the beginning, capture emotions, and tell your story. With the right choice, enough time, and thoughtful planning, your wedding photography becomes a treasure for life.


I’m happy to support you in finding the perfect photo and video team for your wedding. Here are a few personal recommendations:


Gloria Velvet

Gloria Velvet - Gloria Velvet Photography


Gloria specializes in destination weddings in Switzerland and is a true expert for elopements in the Alps. She also offers pre‑wedding shoots, especially for international couples.




Mary Fernandez

Mary Fernandez - Mary Fernandez Photo


Mary is a warm‑hearted soul with a unique eye for timeless and elegant wedding photography. She photographs weddings worldwide and blends design, editorial style, architecture, and emotion in her work.




Jennifer Pitton

Jennifer Pitton - JP Photo & Video


Jenni loves capturing magical moments with her camera. Her warm personality makes it easy to relax completely on your wedding day — and in return, you receive beautiful, heartfelt photos.


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