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- Photographers shared red flags couples should look out for when hiring someone for their big day.
- When choosing a photographer, be sure to look at full galleries instead of curated portfolios.
- Beware of poor communication, no contract, and a lack of reviews.
One of the most important decisions a couple can make leading up to their wedding day is who will capture every special moment.
Weddings photos are a memory you'll be able to look back on forever, so it's important to find a photographer who will document the big day perfectly.
Although there are plenty of talented professionals out there, the excitement of planning a wedding can sometimes make it easy to overlook details — like a photographer's communication, editing style, or business decisions — that should give you pause.
That's why Business Insider asked wedding photographers Karen Khuc and Bri McClure, who are based out of Los Angeles and Nashville, respectively, to share the red flags to look out for when hiring a photographer. Here's what they said.
Be cautious of photographers who refuse to share a full wedding gallery
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Khuc told BI that couples should always ask to look at a full wedding gallery to get an idea of the photographer's shooting and editing styles.
She said that because the images photographers display on their websites and Instagram pages are often curated, they may not be accurate representations of their work.
She also said to be wary if a photographer isn't willing to share a full gallery, because it may mean they don't have enough work to share.
McClure agreed, adding that couples should move on to the next potential photographer if the one they're eyeing won't show them a full gallery.
However, before ruling the photographer our completely, be sure to ask if there's a reason they're unwilling to share the gallery, such as a non-disclosure agreement or client confidentiality.
A lack of communication can be concerning
Couples should be wary of photographers who take four or more days to respond to inquiries, have vague email responses, or don't fully explain their services and offers.
"Ask questions about their communication style, their process, and how often they touch base with their couples," Khuc said.
If they have no answers or vague responses, Khuc recommended considering other options.
"Look for wedding photographers who have a streamlined process. They make it very clear what the next steps are and what to look forward to next," she told BI. "That way, you are never left wondering."
Make sure their editing style is consistent
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It's important to research potential wedding photographers based on the aesthetic and feeling you want reflected in the photos. Therefore, take note if a photographer is inconsistent in their style.
"When a photographer's portfolio varies drastically in editing style, lighting, and overall aesthetic, it can indicate a lack of consistency, which could impact the quality and cohesiveness of your wedding photos," McClure said. "Look for a photographer whose work has a distinct and steady style that resonates with what you want for your day."
Khuc said that the coloring of photos can vary due to the time of day or venue, but couples should still be able to grasp a general feeling of the photographer's style.
Photographers should have contracts ready for clients
"A reputable wedding photographer should have a detailed contract covering everything from deliverables, payments, terms, timelines, and policies," McClure told BI.
She added that the contract should protect both parties — not just the photographer.
"Avoid any photographer who isn't willing to provide a written agreement or contract," McClure said.
Look for professionalism and a service-minded attitude
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Reconsider working with photographers who aren't willing to listen to your vision or be mindful of your concerns.
"Be on the lookout for photographers that will tell you it has to be a certain way or that the couple cannot do certain things," Khuc said. "A good photographer will try to understand what it is you're looking for."
It's important to find a photographer who caters to your vision rather than their own preferences.
Be wary of photographers with no reviews or testimonials
Couples should also look for reviews when hiring a photographer for their wedding day.
"Established photographers should have client feedback, whether on social media, their website, or review platforms," McClure told BI. "If they have very few or no reviews, it may indicate a lack of experience or a history of unsatisfied clients."
Khuc suggested asking all potential photographers for reviews or testimonials from past clients if there aren't any listed on their website, Instagram page, or Google. If a lack of public feedback is a concern for you, find a different photographer.
"Remember, a photographer can make their social media look great, but client reviews will tell you what the experience and photos are really like," McClure added.