Top things to check before booking your photographer
There are so many decisions to make when planning a wedding, and choosing your wedding photographer can often be one that feels the most overwhelming!
Your wedding photos are the mementos that last the longest – long after the cake is eaten and the flowers have drooped, you’ll be looking back at your album. So it’s important you make the right choice when booking your wedding photographer.
Let’s take a look at some green flags, red flags, and key things to keep in mind.
1 – Chemistry is everything
Don’t book your photographer based on photos alone! It’s essential that you click with them—the vibe has to be right. Your photographer is with you all day, right in the thick of it – you want someone who feels like part of the celebration, not someone who disrupts the flow.
Take a few minutes to chat with them on the phone before making your decision. That conversation will reveal a lot about whether they’re the perfect fit for your big day.
2 – Communication is key
The last thing you need while wedding planning is a lack of confidence in your suppliers – too many delays in responses can sometimes spell future issues… You deserve suppliers who truly value you, from the first message to the final delivery.
That’s why from the very first inquiry to well after the wedding, I make it a priority to respond quickly and keep my couples fully assured that they’re in good hands.
3- Reviews
This needs little explanation! Do your research – look on Facebook and Google for reviews so nothing takes you by surprise… Booking a wedding photographer blind is a big expensive risk to take.
4- Are they interested in you?
Finding the right photographer goes beyond a simple transaction; when personality and connection are such a big part of your decision, you need someone who’s genuinely invested in getting to know you.
I love chatting with couples before they book as it’s a chance for us to get to know each other and see if we truly connect! It’s a two-way street for me – if I feel like I’m not the right fit, I’d rather be honest so you can find someone who is.
5 – Are they actively posting on socials?
When a wedding photographer’s socials are active and up to date, you can gain proper insight into the final product you might receive, as well as what kind of vibe they will bring to your day. It also might help spark inspiration while you’re planning!
6 – Remember your booking an experience, not a tradesman
Booking a photographer simply because “their work looks good” isn’t enough when it comes to your wedding. You’re not just hiring someone to “do a job”, you’re choosing someone who will enhance your experience throughout the day.
It all starts with getting to know them from the beginning. Have that initial conversation, and make sure you’re on the same page.
Do they understand your vision? Do you feel they truly get what you’re looking for?
7 – Ask to see a full gallery
We all know social media is not always the full picture. To get a true sense of a wedding photographer’s, ask to see a full gallery. Better yet, request their most recent gallery or one from your specific venue so you get the best idea of what to expect.
Flashy marketing or a polished website are great, but viewing a complete gallery is a sure-fire way to check for consistency and quality.
If you want something to compare to – have a peek at one of mine -> Click here
8 – Make sure you read your contract
I know, paperwork is boring, but it’s there to cover you. So ensure you have a contract from your photographer right from the start.
A contract protects both you and your wedding photographer if any issues arise, and it’s essential if you need to pursue an insurance claim if anything were to happen.
Key things to check:
- Timings: How long will they be present?
- Delivery: When will you receive your images?
- Image Count: How many photos are included?
- Payment Terms: What are the payment deadlines and amounts?
- Cancellation Policy: Are there fees if you cancel within a certain timeframe?
- Hidden Fees: Check for potential extras, like travel costs, accommodation, or licensing fees. Confirm there won’t be unexpected charges (e.g., additional fees if the first dance runs late).
