10 potential red flags to look for when considering a wedding photographer
If I were hiring a wedding photographer, these are the ten items that would likely cause me to move on to the next person. Consider the following pointers and use your best judgement. As always, I’m happy to answer any questions.
1. Photographers who refuse to list pricing information on their website
I am a firm believer that wedding photographers should, at the very least, make their starting rates easily accessible on their websites. As a perspective client, you shouldn't have to jump though multiple hoops (i.e. filling out a contact form, waiting for a response, setting up a meeting, etc) simply to find out what a service costs. This should not be a secret.
Furthermore, by being able to easily access rate information, you’ll immediately know whether or not the photographer is within your budget. Imagine taking the time to meet a photographer only to find out you can’t afford to hire that person. It becomes a waste of everyone’s time.
2. Photographers who claim they have a “signature style”
Photographers might have different aesthetics, methods and approaches, but no photographer has a signature style. Photographers who make such absurd claims are betting that you have no clue what you are looking for, which ultimately shows a total lack of respect for you. This is nothing more than a cheap marketing tactic. Don't fall for it.
3. Photographers who withhold high-res images
Be aware that some very established, well-known photographers may also charge an additional fee to obtain “digital negatives.” This may sound fancy but really these are nothing more than just a folder of high-resolution jpeg files.
Keep your life simple. Work with a photographer who builds in the costs for unrestricted access to your wedding photos as well as unlimited printing rights.
5. Photographers who seem overly enthusiastic
It’s one thing to come across as friendly, passionate, or approachable in an email, but it’s quite another to use excessive explanation marks (!!!!!!), all caps, italics, and emojis. Why would a photographer style their emails with such unnecessary excess? Are they being sincere or are they simply trying to grab your attention? Do you think they would be this enthusiastic if they weren't charging you several thousand dollars to cover their wedding? Think about it.
4. Photographers who have extremely wide pricing scales
Photographers who claim that they can "work with any budget" should be avoided. If a photographer charges a base rate of just $1,200, do you think that photographer really believes in what they are doing? Will you be receiving top quality work? Now imagine paying that same photographer's $9,000 all-inclusive super diamond platinum VIP package, which might include extras like unlimited coverage for two days, three photographers, a couple of albums, print credits and an engagement shoot. While you will undoubtedly get all those extras, the fact remains that you’ll still be working with the same photographer who charges that exceptionally low base rate of $1,200. The quality of the work doesn’t improve simply because you’ve opting for a larger package. At the end of the day, you’ll just end up with a lot more of the same thing.
6. Photographers who guarantee a “minimum” number of frames
Your photographer should only be concerned about making you feel comfortable and capturing the moment. They should not be concerned about the number of images taken. Remember, it’s better to have a smaller selection of excellent images than to be bombarded by literally thousands of frames that are only slightly different.
#7. Photographers who do not require the signing of an agreement to initiate services
A contract should always be required to protect both you and the photographer. I would strongly recommend asking your potential photographer to see a sample agreement before proceeding to make sure everyone is on the same page. If a photographer ever tells you they don't use contracts, walk away immediately.
8. Photographers who don't keep their websites up to date
Websites with thumbnail images, broken links, blurry low-res photos, awkward branding, outdated appearance etc… If you’re looking for a wedding photographer, it’s important to choose someone who’s passionate about their work. Someone who doesn’t care about keeping their website updated probably also doesn’t care about your wedding either. So, it’s best to invest your money in someone who’s committed to their craft.
9. Photographers who make lists about themselves on their about pages
Okay maybe this isn’t necessarily a red flag, but it’s something that really annoys me. In an attempt to connect with you, the perspective client, some photographers will list all of their “likes and dislikes” in their about sections, along with personal facts that are rather personal and completely unrelated to photography. In doing so, they hope to find some common ground with you so that you’ll be more likely to hire them. To me, this is like a car salesman engaging in pointless small talk for the sole purpose of trying to sell the car. It’s insincere. Photographers who do this may as well just say, “Hey, I’ll totally be your friend, but you have to hire me first…”
Now to be clear, I have no problem being open about myself and my interests, but the fact is, you are considering making a big investment in photography, so you should love the work first and foremost. All the other details (common interests, personal details, etc.) should come naturally over time after you’ve signed the agreement in a space where there is no pressure to make the sale.
10.Photographers who refuse to show entire takes from previous weddings.
You should always ask to see full galleries so you can have a better sense of what to expect from your photographer. If they refuse to share one with you or make up an excuse, they are likely either too afraid or even ashamed to show you their work. Proceed with caution.
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