Photographer Tips for Your Wedding: Booking, Budget & Best Practices

Finding the right wedding photographer can feel like a maze, but it doesn’t have to be. Below are the most useful tips you can apply right now, whether you’re just starting your search or finalising the contract.

How Many Hours Should You Book?

Most couples book between 6 and 10 hours. Six hours cover the ceremony, portraits, and a short reception. If you want coverage for the cocktail hour, early dancing, and those late‑night moments, aim for 8 to 10 hours. Ask your photographer for a timeline worksheet – it will show exactly where the hours are spent and help you avoid gaps.

Remember that the first hour usually includes set‑up and a quick test shoot, so factor that in. A solid rule of thumb: add one extra hour to your planned schedule for unexpected delays. This simple buffer saves you from missing any precious moments.

Do You Need Two Photographers?

Two shooters aren’t mandatory, but they can make a big difference. With one photographer you’ll get great images, but you might miss simultaneous action, like the vows and the father‑of‑the‑bride’s speech. Two photographers let one focus on the ceremony while the other captures candid reception shots. If your budget allows, it’s a worthwhile upgrade.

If you decide on a second shooter, make sure both photographers share a similar style. Look at their portfolios side by side and ask for a joint test shoot or a walkthrough of the venue. Consistency in lighting and composition will keep your wedding album cohesive.

Budgeting and Payment Timing

Most photographers ask for a 25‑30% deposit to lock the date, with the remainder due 30‑60 days before the wedding. Ask for a clear payment schedule in the contract – it protects both parties and avoids last‑minute surprises. Some couples prefer to split the final payment into two installments to spread the cash flow.Don’t forget to budget for extra services: engagement sessions, travel fees, overtime, and prints. A common mistake is to assume the headline price includes everything. Write down all add‑ons you might want and compare total costs across at least three vendors.

When reviewing quotes, focus on value, not just price. A photographer with a lower rate might charge extra for editing, while a higher‑priced pro could include a full album and USB drive. Ask for a detailed breakdown so you can see where each pound is going.

Choosing the Right Photographer

Start with style. Do you love bright, airy images or moody, cinematic tones? Save three to five portfolios that match your vision and schedule a face‑to‑face meeting (or video chat). During the meeting, gauge how comfortable you feel – a relaxed photographer captures more natural moments.

Ask about equipment backup, insurance, and how many edited photos you’ll receive. Also, clarify the turnaround time. Some photographers deliver a digital gallery in two weeks; others take a month. Knowing this helps you plan when to order prints or albums.

Finally, read reviews and ask for references. A few real‑world stories will reveal how the photographer handles unexpected weather, timeline changes, or last‑minute requests. Trust your gut – if something feels off, keep looking.

By applying these photographer tips, you’ll avoid common pitfalls, stay within budget, and end up with a collection of images that truly tell the story of your day.