I suspect like everything else there is a local market that establishes the prices. We have many weddings here in Chicago on the grounds of (rented out of course) mansions and public gardens. Sometimes the photographer brings in two or three assistants to handle the lights and change film. Maybe someone to run the video equipment. Adjust the clothing and makup. The male photographers generally wear tux'es. Up in Wisconsin things are less formal, but still at least one assistant. And the photographer is expected to stay until the last drunk polkas home. [So basically, these photographers are earning their livlihood during a rather intense day-long session. They have to be pretty ruthless in extracting more money. Ever price frames from a wedding photographer?! The real profit is in the frames!] One thinks there should be a market for "Dirt Cheap Weddings." Maybe just a few pics after the ceremony. [I used to do this to earn money while in school. No one shot me for forgetting to load the camera, but it came close.] But there is virtue in taking hundreds of shots of all the relatives and friends. Reprints are also profitable. What about distributing the proofs on DVD for viewing on TV? I'd think you could also lession the stress by also making a few digital shots.