When to Book Your Wedding Photographer
As a newly engaged couple who are Planning a Wedding, there are so many things to think about that it can feel a little overwhelming. Knowing when to book your wedding photographer is one of those key decisions that can make the rest of your planning feel far more relaxed.
In my experience, the first thing most newly engaged couples do is book their wedding venue. Once your venue and date are confirmed, you are then in the perfect position to book your wedding photographer. I love shooting weddings in the style of a documentary wedding photographer, capturing real moments, genuine emotions, and relaxed portraits that reflect the day as it naturally unfolds.
Although I book weddings over two years in advance and sometimes just a few months before the wedding, the vast majority of weddings are booked 9 to 12 months ahead, with 18 months being a close second. If you Want a Relaxed Wedding Day, planning early makes a huge difference.
I photograph weddings all over the UK, but as a Liverpool Wedding Photographer, I also have the occasional luxury of getting home and sleeping in my own bed on the wedding day.
The answer to the question when should you book a wedding photographer will be different for every couple. It depends on whether you have booked your venue, whether you have chosen a popular date, and how important photography is to you. If you have not chosen your photographer yet, this guide on How To Find The Right Wedding Photographer For You will help you work out what matters most.
What Is the Best Time to Hire a Wedding Photographer?
One of the most common questions couples ask when planning a wedding is what is the best time to hire a wedding photographer.The short answer is that there is no single perfect moment that suits everyone. The best time to book a wedding photographer depends on your venue, your wedding date, your budget, and how important photography is to you.
Many couples also ask how far in advance should you book a wedding photographer or when should you book a wedding photographer. The guidance below will help you decide what works best for your plans.
A Clear Timeline for Booking Your Wedding Photographer
If you like things laid out clearly, here is a simple timeline to help you understand how early you should book your wedding photographer.
18 to 24 Months Before the Wedding
- Ideal for summer Saturdays and popular venues
- Best time to hire a wedding photographer if you have a high-demand date
- Gives you the widest choice of photographers
12 to 18 Months Before the Wedding
- Very common booking window
- Still a good chance of securing your preferred photographer
- Sensible timing if photography is important to you
6 to 12 Months Before the Wedding
- Availability becomes more limited
- Works well for Fridays, Sundays, and off-peak seasons
- You may need to be flexible
3 to 6 Months Before the Wedding
- Possible, but options will be reduced
- More likely to find availability midweek or out of season
- Best suited to relaxed or smaller weddings
Less Than 3 Months Before the Wedding
- Availability is unpredictable
- Often relies on cancellations
- Not impossible, but not ideal if photography matters to you
If you are wondering when is too late to book a wedding photographer, the answer is usually when choice becomes limited enough that you feel you are compromising.
Frequently Asked Questions About Booking a Wedding Photographer
When should you book a wedding photographer?
Ideally, you should book your wedding photographer as soon as your venue and date are confirmed. For popular summer Saturdays, this often means booking 12 to 18 months in advance.
What is the best time to hire a wedding photographer?
The best time to hire a wedding photographer is straight after booking your venue. This ensures your preferred photographer is available and removes one major decision from your planning list.
her as soon as your venue and date are confirmed. For popular summer Saturdays, this often means booking 12 to 18 months in advance.
How far in advance do you need to book a wedding photographer?
Most couples book between 9 and 18 months in advance. Busy dates may require earlier booking, while midweek or winter weddings often allow more flexibility.
Can you book a wedding photographer before the venue?
In practice, no. Without a confirmed date and venue, a photographer cannot hold availability. Booking your venue first is essential.
Is it ever too early to book a wedding photographer?
It is rarely too early, especially if you have a popular date. Many couples book their photographer 18 to 24 months in advance to secure their first choice.
When is too late to book a wedding photographer?
It is too late when you are forced to choose a wedding photographer you do not truly connect with. Availability drops sharply within six months of the wedding, especially in peak season.
Does budget affect when you should book your photographer?
Yes. If you are working to a tighter budget, booking early allows you to explore off-season dates, weekday weddings, and photographers offering flexible pricing.
Final Thoughts on When to Book Your Wedding Photographer
If photography matters to you, the safest advice is simple. Book your venue, then book your photographer as early as you reasonably can. Doing so gives you choice, peace of mind, and a far more relaxed wedding planning experience.
If you are currently planning your wedding and would like to chat about availability, timing, or whether I might be the right fit, feel free to get in touch. I am always happy to talk things through.