Photographers may charge what seems like a significant amount for several reasons:

1. **Equipment Costs**: 
Professional-grade cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, and editing software can be expensive. Photographers need to invest in high-quality gear to produce top-notch results.

2. **Skill and Expertise**: 
Photography is a skill that requires years of practice and training to master. Professional photographers often have extensive experience and expertise in composition, lighting, posing, and editing, which contributes to the value they provide.

3. **Time Invested**: 
Beyond the actual time spent capturing photos at an event or during a session, photographers also spend a significant amount of time on pre-production (planning, equipment preparation), post-production (editing, retouching), client communication, and administrative tasks.

4. **Business Expenses**: 
Running a photography business entails various expenses such as marketing, insurance, studio rent (if applicable), website maintenance, and taxes. The fees charged by photographers often need to cover these overhead costs as well.

5. **Limited Availability**: 
Many photographers can only accept a limited number of clients per month due to the time-intensive nature of their work. This limited availability can drive up demand and allow photographers to charge higher rates.

6. **Value of the Final Product**: 
Professional photographs are often cherished memories or important marketing materials for individuals and businesses. Clients are willing to pay for the quality and expertise that professional photographers provide, knowing that they will receive high-quality, professionally edited images that meet their needs.

Ultimately, the price charged by photographers reflects the value they offer, taking into account their skills, experience, time invested, and business expenses. While professional photography services may seem costly upfront, many clients find that the quality and service provided justify the investment in the long run.