When to Book Your Wedding Photographer (and Why It’s Sooner Than You Think)
Planning a wedding comes with a long list of to-dos, but one of the most important is figuring out when to book your wedding photographer. Many couples don’t realize how early photographers start filling their calendars—and waiting too long could mean missing out on the person you’ve been dreaming of capturing your big day.
Below, we’ll break down the best time to lock in your photographer and why sooner really is better.
Why Booking Early Matters
The best wedding photographers often book up 12–18 months in advance, especially during peak wedding season (spring through fall). If you have your heart set on a particular style—or a specific person—waiting too long could mean they’re already committed to another couple.
That’s why it’s crucial to know when to book your wedding photographer. By securing your date early, you’ll not only avoid the stress of scrambling but also have time to build a relationship with your photographer, making the entire experience smoother.
The Ideal Timeframe
So, when should you actually book? As a general rule:
- 12–18 months before your wedding: Perfect for prime dates, especially Saturdays in peak season.
- 9–12 months out: Still a good window for off-season or weekday weddings.
- 6–9 months out: Possible, but your options may be more limited.
- Less than 6 months: Doable in some cases, but you’ll likely need to be flexible with availability.
The earlier you lock in your photographer, the better your chances of booking the exact person you want.
Benefits of Booking Your Photographer Early
Booking your photographer sooner than later isn’t just about availability—it comes with some big perks:
- Peace of mind knowing one of the most important vendors is secured.
- Time to plan your engagement session and get comfortable in front of the camera.
- Building a connection with your photographer, so you feel more natural on the wedding day.
- Prioritizing your budget since you’ll know your photography investment early in the planning process.
When in Doubt, Don’t Wait
If you’re wondering when to book your wedding photographer, the answer is almost always: as soon as you’ve set your date and venue. Photographers are one of the first vendors you should lock in because their schedules fill quickly.
Your wedding day only happens once, you deserve to have it captured by someone you trust and love.
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Ever wondered what it looks like to get back your wedding photos? Check out what your full gallery returned would like like, from us here!
