How to Know if You’re Booking a Professional Wedding Photographer?

It can be hard to know whether or not you’re booking a professional wedding photographer and not just a hobbyist! The reason this is true is because you don’t technically need any degree or certification to become a photographer! Any person with a camera nowadays call themselves a photographer…and sure.. they are. But how do you know if they’re a professional who knows what they’re doing? How do you know if you’re getting your money’s worth? I’ve created this guide to help you know if you’re booking a professional wedding photographer or not. Let’s dive right in!

1: Do They Have a Niche?

This one is important to determine whether or not you’re booking a professional wedding photographer and not just a hobbyist. If you look at their Instagram- do they post about their niche or multiple different sessions? If you’re looking for a professional wedding photographer and this person is posting family sessions, seniors, couples and some weddings etc, this is a sign that the photographer is a newbie or hobbyist and still figuring out their niche. A professional wedding and/or elopement photographer will be posting about their niche only.

2: Did You Have to Sign a Contract?

I know that contracts can be a drag and they seem kinda scary…But not having a contract is a huge red flag. Professional wedding photographers will have a contract in place that needs to be signed before they go any further in working with you.

3: Does This Photographer Have a Website?

A professional wedding photographer will have a solid website that showcases their starting prices, examples of their work, more about them and a contact page. This is very important. Hobbyist photographers usually don’t have a website. If they do, it’s usually a Wix site.

4: Can You Schedule a Consultation Call?

Professional wedding photographers care about “meeting” their prospective future clients and want to make sure everyone is a good fit. They usually schedule consultation calls with their clients to chat through any questions you may have and walk you through the process of working with them.

5: Is Photography Their Profession?

Number one way to know if you’re booking a professional wedding photographer is to know if photography is their profession. Is it their full time job and their main source of income? If so, then they’re a pro photographer.

I hope these 5 easy steps will help you know if you’re booking a professional wedding photographer! If you’re still looking for a wedding or elopement photographer for you big day, please reach out HERE. I would absolutely love to connect with you!