2026

Nobody really talks about the business behind a wedding photographer. Our main role is of course recording couples special day, but what gets us to that point? So many people think it's an easy job and an easy way to make money out of their hobby, but would you trust your day to someone unproven? Everyone has to start somewhere I agree but I see a lot of poor quality images lately by photographers who have already covered weddings. When I was first getting into weddings I shadowed someone with a proven track record and learnt so much about Wedding days, the format, timings and everything in between that can go wrong. You don't get second chances at weddings you have to be alert to everything that is happening. I can't imagine couples reaction to photos that they are unhappy with, you just cannot recreate these moments.

Nobody's day is straightforward even though it may seem to be the case, there are always so many variables, dark rooms for ceremonies, rain, cold and limited access to areas that would create special images. Every couple wants to spend a different amount of time on couple photos, which is why we meet up to chat! When you pay for a photographer you pay for that experience and ability to not panic whatever happens, but to always find a way through it and not to inconvenience you in any way. You shouldn't even be aware that there is a problem. If it's something key then we would always let you know.

Equipment is an investment and it takes years to reach a level that you need to do your job properly. I work with two cameras on the day and always carry a spare, both cameras have dual memory card slots so I have two copies of every photo in case memory cards fail. Then there are lenses, flashes, off camera lights, multiple batteries etc. I hear a lot of horror stories of photos being lost, cameras failing during ceremonies, nothing is foolproof but experience means any issue does not become a drama.

Lighting is huge, the ability to use flashes and other lighting sources is so apparent when you look at different photographers images, if you prefer well lit images then choose a photographer that shows that in their portfolio but also ask them. Always ask to see a delivered gallery so that you can see what you are likely to receive.

One factor that you don't need to know about is how we get our business. It's a key factor in us being able to continue as professionals. The question I always ask myself is where would be my first port of call if I was looking for a wedding photographer? Google? if so what is my search criteria to ensure my keywords are correct? Do I advertise on sites such as Hitched, Bridebook, Weddissimo? Did you know Weddissimo take 20% of my fee if I get a booking through them, and they control payment so we don't get paid until after the wedding. Absolutely no way I'd sign up to that. The other two sites just charge you a fee to be boosted on their rankings so you are more likely to get in front of potential couples. I also need to keep my instagram going, facebook and maybe tiktok while working all the hours available to meet clients, arrange pre-weds, attend pre weds, attend weddings and edit thousands of photos. Advertising is a time consuming element but it's essential because it's how we get our future business. The best advert is me when I'm at a wedding, I get a lot of referrals and I'm really grateful for these.

The importance of this is incredible, I am going from 39 weddings last year to 22 bookings so far this year, potentially half the income. January is normally the peak time for bookings but I've not had a single enquiry in the last month. This is despite paying for advertising on facebook and google......I know its not my work and these years happen. It has before and there are always other income sources. It is a concern but it's common to every business you encounter.

The market is saturated with photographers at the moment but you have to trust that your quality and experience will still shine through,

Some downtime now until this year starts in February so I do have some time to work on those socials!!