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Buying guide

Wedding photography: how to choose a photographer and get the best shots

Wedding photography is the highest-value supplier booking after the venue. Here is how to approach it.

Choosing a photographer

Style consistency matters more than the single best photo in a portfolio. View 2–3 complete wedding galleries (not just portfolio highlights) — this shows how a photographer performs across a full day in different light conditions. Book someone whose natural style you love, not someone you want to change. Meet in person or on video before booking — you will spend 8–10 hours with this person on the most important day of your life.

What to ask before booking

Can we see a complete gallery from a recent wedding? Do you have liability insurance? What happens if you are ill on the day? How long until we receive the edited photos (typically 6–12 weeks)? Do we receive high-resolution digital files? Can we print from them? What is the cancellation policy? A good photographer will welcome all of these questions.

Getting the best shots on the day

Share a detailed shot list with the photographer using our free wedding photography shot list template — key family groups required, must-have moments, any awkward family dynamics to be aware of. The photographer needs to know about divorced parents who can't be photographed together, elderly relatives who can't stand for long, and children with short attention spans. Communicate clearly in advance.

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Frequently asked questions

How many photos should a wedding photographer deliver?
400–800 edited photos for a full-day wedding (ceremony through first dance). Some photographers deliver more; quality matters more than quantity. Ask what the typical edited delivery count is before booking.
How far in advance should a wedding photographer be booked?
12–18 months for popular dates. The best photographers book furthest in advance — a Saturday in May or June at a sought-after venue may be fully booked 2 years ahead. Book the photographer when you book the venue.