Prices that photographers charge now ARE crazy. My FH and I were in a panic when we started researching ~ thinking we were never going to be able to afford one. I really didn't want to have to sacrifice professionl pictures on the happiest day of my life. But a couple of weeks ago, I actually came across a photographer that was 'cheap' in comparison to every other photographer I was finding in my area. For anyone who is in Massachusettes or the surrounding area, check out their site.
Innovative Video & Photography - Home Page
I was immediatly impressed by just how much they were offering for that price ~ again, compared to everything else I was finding. They're offering 120 proofs in an album, Art Leather Co. wedding album with 20 pages of 8x10s, a 16x20 framed portrait and up to 8 hours of coverage ~ all for 1,500. This price if good for this year and 2009. And of course they have a list of extras that you can purchase if you choose to do so ~ all at very reasonable prices. I emailed them with some questions and they responded back promptly (also a plus). I explained that my wedding isn't until 2010 and wanted to know how much that 1,500 price was going to go up. They said if I booked in 2009 for 2010, that price would remain the same. I'm definatly going with this company. Hope I've helped anyone in my area. Happy photo hunting!

P.S. They have videography as well.