When Should I Book my Photographer?

When should I book my photographer? I get this question a lot (for obvious reasons). And what I generally have to tell people is, "It depends." A big factor in this is who you're booking - how busy are they, how far out do their clients usually book, etc. So here comes the disclaimer: I can't speak for other vendors, I can only tell you my experience on the matter.

The best advice that I can give you is to book as soon as you're sure. If you find a photographer that you love, whose prices fit your budget, and who has your date open… well, what are you waiting for? Your best bet with any vendor is to start looking as soon as you've picked a date, but realistically, that doesn't always happen.Some of us are procrastinators, and things get in the way of our planning. Things like work, and holidays, and Project Runway marathons. Or maybe you're just not into a long engagement (I fell into this camp - we were engaged in October, and married in May).

So how long can I put this off?

Probably the biggest factor is your wedding date. Certain months, even certain days, are more popular than others. I tend to book most of my weddings between May and October. June and October tend to be especially popular. Saturdays are definitely the most popular, so you have more time if you’re planning a Sunday or weekday wedding.

What does that mean for me?

If you're getting married in July, you may need to book a little further out than if you were getting married in February. But, again, my "if you love them, book them now" rule still applies. You're essentially playing the odds that someone else will want to book the same photographer for the same date as you. It's the same odds game you're playing with venues, florists, DJs, and anyone else you're hiring for the day.

Right, so when should I book?

I'll give you folks some numbers, and you can draw your own conclusions. Sound fair?

I keep stats on when I get inquiries, how many of them book, when they book, I’ve got an Excel spreadsheet for it like a big ol’ nerd.

In 2019-2022, and 2024, it was short-term bookings. Most of my weddings booked less than 6 months out.

But in 2023, most of my weddings booked 10 or more months out. Why? No idea, friends.

The shortest time I've had between a booking and a wedding was 1 week (not recommended), and the longest was 2 years. Again, every vendor's numbers are different. As they say on the interwebs, your mileage may vary.

Have a question? Ask the photographer!

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