Wedding Photography Packages: What’s Included & What’s a Ripoff? | San Antonio Wedding Photographer Advice
So you’ve booked your dream San Antonio venue, tasted your way through the cake samples (respect), and now you’re diving into the world of wedding photography packages… and feeling a little overwhelmed?
You’re not alone.
As a San Antonio wedding photography team who has documented over 200 weddings across the Hill Country, we’ve seen couples struggle with figuring out what’s actually worth paying for—and what’s just marketing fluff with a pretty bow.
This guide is your inside look into what to expect from wedding photography pricing, what you should demand, and what might just be a Texas-sized ripoff. Let’s go!
What’s Typically Included in San Antonio Wedding Photography Packages
1. Coverage Hours (And Why It Matters)
Photography packages usually come in 6, 8, or 10-hour blocks. Here's what that means:
6 Hours: Best for intimate weddings or elopements.
8 Hours: The sweet spot for most couples—getting ready through reception fun.
10 Hours: The full experience. From popping champagne in the bridal suite to your sparkler exit downtown San Antonio.
👉 Photographer tip: 90% of our couples book 10–12 hours. It keeps the day relaxed and lets us capture moments without rushing.
2. A Second Shooter
Worried about missing the groom’s face during the bride’s entrance? That’s where a second shooter shines. We highly recommend two for all weddings (and why we both photograph all weddings we book).
3. Edited High-Resolution Images
You should receive fully edited, high-resolution images with no watermarks and full printing rights. This is standard—not a premium add-on.
4. Online Gallery
An online gallery makes it easy to share your photos with family, guests, and the friend who couldn’t fly in from Boston.
5. Engagement Session
A bonus that’s often included in higher-tier packages. It’s not just for cute save-the-dates—it helps you feel comfortable with your photographer before the big day.
Nice-to-Haves (But Not Must-Haves)
Albums
Heirloom albums are included in some premium packages and can absolutely be worth the investment. These aren’t your average Shutterfly books—think archival-quality, timeless keepsakes. Want more info on albums we deliver in our package? Watch our YouTube video at this link.
Sneak Peeks
A few highlight photos within 48 hours of your wedding? Yes, please. Perfect for social media and sharing with excited family while you’re still honeymooning in Tulum. Ask bout how we provide sneak peeks faster than anyone else.
USB Delivery
Becoming less popular, but still requested by couples who like having a physical backup. We always provide one!
Additional Sessions (Bridal or Rehearsal Dinner)
Optional, but fun. A bridal session at McNay or a rehearsal dinner at a downtown restaurant adds variety to your wedding story.
What’s a Ripoff? 🚩 Red Flags in Photography Packages
1. Charging for Basics
Be wary of packages that charge extra for:
Edited photos
Print release
Gallery access
Those are standard—not add-on’s.
2. Underpriced Packages with No Experience
If it sounds too good to be true… it usually is. We’ve seen couples burned by bargain photographers who ghost or deliver poor-quality images.
3. Surprise Travel Fees for Local Weddings
You shouldn’t pay extra if your wedding is in San Antonio or nearby. We include coverage for all local venues—no hidden charges even for distant locations.
4. “Exposure Discounts”
Discounts in exchange for “letting us use your photos” = 🚩. That’s not a deal—it’s sketchy. A seasoned San Antonio wedding photographer should already have a strong portfolio.
What Our Couples Actually Use and Love
We’ve photographed weddings from downtown SA to the rolling hills of Fredericksburg. Here’s what our couples rave about:
10-12 Hour Coverage gives time for everything from tears during vows to late-night dance-offs.
Engagement Sessions ease nerves and help us get to know each other.
Sneak Peeks are always a hit, especially for social media-loving couples.
Albums turn your wedding story into an heirloom that lives on for generations.
Questions to Ask Before Booking a Wedding Photographer
Use this checklist to make sure your photographer is legit:
Can we see a full wedding gallery?
What’s your turnaround time?
Do you include a print release?
Are you insured?
Is everything clearly listed in the contract?
(Our answers? Yes, 1 week, yes, absolutely, and of course.)
Final Thoughts: Don’t Compare Prices—Compare Value
Your wedding day only happens once. When the flowers fade and the cake is gone, your photos are what remain.
So don’t just ask “how much?” Ask “what’s included?”, “who’s capturing it?”, and “do they care about my story?”
If you’re looking for a San Antonio wedding photographer who blends journalistic storytelling with a laid-back vibe—and can roll with the punches when your ring bearer decides to moonwalk down the aisle—we might be the right fit.
