How to avoid Scam “Photographers” when Booking your Wedding Photographer
Your wedding photos are one of the most important keepsakes from your big day, so finding the right photographer is crucial. Unfortunately, there are scammers out there who take advantage of excited couples by offering low prices and disappearing after payment. To help you avoid falling victim to a scam, here are some suggestions by me - a wedding photographer - to vet your wedding photographer before booking.
1. Check Reviews
A legitimate photographer will have an online presence with real reviews from past clients. Be sure to check:
Facebook reviews – Read what previous couples have said about their experience.
Google reviews – This can provide an overall rating and honest feedback from verified customers. Some smaller photography businesses may not have a google page set up quite yet so don’t stress if you can’t find their google page!
Instagram tagged photos – Look at pictures they’ve been tagged in by real clients, not just what they post on their feed.
Honestly if you can find reviews on the platform you found them on or that they are the most present on, that can give you a lot of useful information!
If a photographer has little to no reviews or only showcases highly curated content, proceed with caution.
2. Are They Present?
A reliable photographer will be available and engaged throughout your planning process. Consider:
Can you schedule a call with them, and do they show up as promised?
If you’ve booked an engagement session, do they show up on time and deliver the photos as expected?
If they are difficult to reach, cancel appointments, or don’t seem invested in your wedding, this could be a red flag.
3. Are They Professional?
Professionalism matters. Look for signs that indicate they take their business seriously, such as:
A legitimate website with a portfolio and clear pricing.
A signed contract that protects both parties.
Clear communication and prompt responses to questions.
A track record of showing up on time and delivering high-quality work.
Can they provide full galleries from past weddings and detailed information about their business?
If they insist on only taking cash payments, avoid contracts, or have an unprofessional attitude, it may be a sign to move on. (Especially if they don’t have a contract. A contract doesn’t just protect them, it should protect you as well!)
4. Trust Your Instinct
At the end of the day, your wedding photographer will be with you all day long, capturing your most intimate and special moments. If something doesn’t feel right, listen to your gut. It’s totally okay to move on and find someone you feel comfortable with. Your photographer should make you feel at ease, not stressed or unsure.
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect wedding photographer is a big decision, but with the right precautions, you can avoid scams and ensure you’re working with a trustworthy professional. Do your research, trust your instincts, and prioritize professionalism to guarantee your wedding memories are in good hands!
