Las Vegas is known as the wedding capital of the world, with its charming and often quirky wedding chapels providing a quick and memorable way to tie the knot. However, what many couples don’t realize until it's too late is that not all chapels have the same policies when it comes to photography and digital images. If you're planning an intimate wedding or elopement in Vegas, it's crucial to understand the hidden costs and restrictions before booking your dream chapel.
The Reality of Outside Photography Policies in Las Vegas Wedding Chapels
Not all Las Vegas wedding chapels allow outside photographers, and those that do often charge an additional fee ranging from $200 to Chapel of the Flower's $500. This means that if you have a specific photographer you love and want to capture the ceremony part of your special day, you’ll need to do your research ahead of time. Some chapels have strict contracts with in-house photographers, preventing couples from bringing in their own professional or even allowing guests to take photos on their personal devices.
The ONLY 2 small chapels currently that welcomes outside photographers without any extra fees or hassles are:
Both chapels make it easy for couples to use their own photographer, ensuring they can capture their wedding day in a style that reflects their personality rather than being restricted by an in-house photographer's approach.
Pro Tip: Both of these chapels offer the use of a classic car. However, you will need to purchase a separate time slot to reserve the opportunity (unless having your ceremony in the classic pink Cadillac at LWWC). If you can add it to the budget, these photos will be some of your favorite!
The Unexpected Cost of Digital Images
One of the biggest surprises for couples getting married in Las Vegas is the up-charge on digital images. Many chapels have exclusive contracts with in-house photographers, which means you’re often required to purchase your wedding photos directly from them—and the prices can be steep.
For example, Graceland Chapel charges $20 for a single digital photo up to $500 for all the digital images from your ceremony. Other chapels may charge even more, and some require you to pay per and don't offer a full set. This can be an unexpected expense for couples who assumed they would have easy access to their wedding photos.
Even more restrictive, some chapels like Little Church of the West won't allow guests to take photos on their personal devices unless a premium package is purchased & then they rush you into a photography sale immediately after the ceremony! That means if you were hoping for a few quick snaps from friends or family, you may be disappointed & you are limited to only the in-house photographer's work (and personality).
The Limitations of Choosing an In-House Photographer
If you choose to go with an in-house photographer, you are limiting yourself from additional iconic Vegas locations for your wedding portraits. Many of the best wedding moments happen outside of the chapel, and an outside photographer can capture them with more flexibility. Imagine having your private first dance on a parking garage rooftop with the neon lights of the Strip in the background, sharing a quick burger & shake at In N Out, or cutting a classic heart-shaped cake from Freed's Bakery with your partner. These personalized moments make your wedding experience unique, but they are often not included in standard in-house photography packages.
How to Choose the Best Chapel for Your Wedding
Before booking a chapel, here are a few important questions to ask:
Can we bring our own photographer? If so, is there a fee?
What is the cost of purchasing digital images from the in-house photographer?
Are guests allowed to take their own photos or videos?
Are there any hidden costs beyond the ceremony price?
By doing your homework ahead of time, you can avoid unexpected fees and ensure your wedding experience is stress-free and exactly what you envisioned.
Final Thoughts
Las Vegas wedding chapels are a fantastic choice for couples looking for a fun, easy, and memorable way to say "I do." However, understanding the fine print on photography policies and digital image pricing can make a huge difference in your experience.
If having full control over your wedding photos is important to you, consider choosing a photographer-friendly chapel like Little White Wedding Chapel or Sure Thing Chapel to avoid the extra fees and restrictions. The key to a perfect Vegas wedding? Know before you book, and make sure your chapel aligns with your photography and budget expectations!
Keywords:
Las Vegas wedding chapels, Vegas elopement, wedding photography, outside wedding photographer Vegas, intimate wedding, elopement photography, Vegas wedding costs, Little White Wedding Chapel, Sure Thing Chapel, Las Vegas wedding tips.
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