- Photographers shared warnings that couples should be aware of when hiring someone for their big day.
- When choosing a photographer, make sure you look at full galleries rather than curated portfolios.
- Beware of poor communication, no contract and a lack of reviews.
One of the most important decisions a couple can make leading up to their wedding day is who will capture each special moment.
Wedding photos are a memory you can look back on forever, so it’s important to find a photographer who will capture the big day perfectly.
While there are many talented professionals, the excitement of planning a wedding can sometimes make it easy to overlook details (like a photographer’s communication, editing style, or business decisions) that should give you pause.
That’s why Business Insider asked wedding photographers Karen Khuc and Bri McClure, based in Los Angeles and Nashville respectively, to share the warning signs to look for when hiring a photographer. This is what they said.
Be careful of photographers who refuse to share a full wedding gallery
What photographers share on their personal pages may not reflect their overall work. Klaus Vedfelt/Getty Images
Khuc told BI that couples should always ask to view a full wedding gallery to get a sense of the photographer’s shooting and editing styles.
She said that because the images photographers display on their websites and Instagram pages are often curated, they may not be an accurate representation of their work.
She also said to be wary if a photographer isn’t willing to share a full gallery, as it could mean they don’t have enough work to share.
McClure agreed, adding that couples should move on to the next potential photographer if the one they’re eyeing doesn’t show them a full gallery.
However, before you abandon the photographer completely, ask yourself if there is a reason he or she won’t share the gallery, such as a non-disclosure agreement or client confidentiality.
A lack of communication can be worrying
Couples should be wary of photographers who take four or more days to respond to inquiries, have vague email responses, or do not fully explain their services and offerings.
“Ask questions about their communication style, their process and how often they connect with their couples,” Khuc said.
If they don’t have answers or are vague, Khuc recommended considering other options.
“Look for wedding photographers with a streamlined process. They make it very clear what the next steps are and what we can look forward to,” she told BI. “That way you never have to wonder again.”
Make sure their editing style is consistent
Find a photographer who captures the aesthetic you want for your big day. Obradovic/Getty Images
It’s important to research potential wedding photographers based on the aesthetic and feeling you want to reflect in the photos. Therefore, pay attention if a photographer is inconsistent in his style.
“If a photographer’s portfolio varies drastically in editing style, lighting and overall aesthetics, it can indicate a lack of consistency, which can impact the quality and cohesion of your wedding photos,” says McClure. “Find a photographer whose work has a clear and consistent style that resonates with what you want for that day.”
Khuc said the color of photos can vary depending on the time of day or location, but couples should still be able to get a general sense of the photographer’s style.
Photographers need to have contracts ready for clients
“A reputable wedding photographer should have a detailed contract that covers everything from results, payments, terms, timelines and policies,” McClure told BI.
She added that the contract should protect both parties – not just the photographer.
“Avoid any photographer who is unwilling to provide a written agreement or contract,” McClure said.
Ensure professionalism and a service-oriented attitude
Don’t choose a photographer who doesn’t listen to your vision. Nikolaj Munt/Shutterstock
Reconsider working with photographers who won’t listen to your vision or take your concerns into account.
“Beware of photographers who tell you it has to be done a certain way or that the couple can’t do certain things,” Khuc said. “A good photographer will try to understand what you are looking for.”
It is important to find a photographer who fits your vision and not his own preferences.
Be wary of photographers without reviews or testimonials
Couples should also look for reviews when hiring a photographer for their wedding day.
“Established photographers need to get customer feedback, whether it’s on social media, their website or review platforms,” McClure told BI. “If they have very few or no reviews, it could indicate a lack of experience or a history of unhappy customers.”
Khuc suggested asking all potential photographers for reviews or testimonials from previous clients if they aren’t listed on their website, Instagram page, or Google. If you’re concerned about a lack of public feedback, find another photographer.
“Remember, a photographer can make their social media look great, but customer reviews will tell you what the experience and photos are really like,” McClure added.