How Far in Advance Should You Hire a Wedding Photographer?
If you’re planning a wedding, one of the biggest (and most important) decisions you’ll make is choosing your wedding photographer. But how early should you book one?
💡 Short answer: Most couples should book their wedding photographer 9-18 months in advance—especially if they’re getting married in peak season or have their heart set on a specific photographer.
Let’s break down the best timeline for booking a wedding photographer and why early planning is crucial.
When Should You Book Your Wedding Photographer?
📅 12-18 Months Before Your Wedding (Recommended!)
✔ Ideal for popular wedding months (spring, summer, and fall)
✔ Ensures you get your first choice before their calendar fills up
✔ Allows time for an engagement session & timeline planning
📅 9-12 Months Before Your Wedding (Safe Zone!)
✔ Still plenty of time to secure a great photographer
✔ Most photographers will have some availability left
✔ Recommended if your wedding is in the off-season (winter, early spring)
📅 6-9 Months Before Your Wedding (Last-Minute Booking)
✔ Possible to find an available photographer, but choices may be limited
✔ Many in-demand photographers are already booked by this point
📅 Less Than 6 Months Before Your Wedding (Risky!)
❌ Many photographers will be fully booked
❌ You may have to compromise on style, experience, or availability
❌ Could limit engagement session scheduling
If your wedding is in peak season (May-October) or on a holiday weekend, booking early is even more important.
Why Should You Book Early?
1. The Best Photographers Book Up Fast
Top wedding photographers only take a limited number of weddings per year. If you wait too long, you might miss out on your first choice.
2. You Get More Time for Engagement Photos
Many photographers include engagement sessions in their packages. Booking early means you’ll have time to:
✔ Schedule your engagement shoot at the perfect season
✔ Use the photos for save-the-dates, invitations, or wedding websites
3. You Lock in Pricing Before It Goes Up
Many photographers raise their prices each year due to demand and business growth. Booking early ensures you get current rates instead of paying more later.
4. You Can Plan Your Wedding Timeline Around Your Photos
Securing a photographer early allows for better planning of:
📸 First look timing
🌅 Golden hour portraits
💡 Backup plans for bad weather
What If You’re Booking Last-Minute?
If you’re booking less than 6 months before your wedding, don’t panic—but act fast!
✔ Be flexible with your date – Some photographers may have availability on Fridays or Sundays.
✔ Consider associate photographers – Some photography studios have a team of professionals available.
✔ Look for cancellations – Occasionally, a photographer may have an opening due to a rescheduled wedding.
Final Thoughts: When Should You Hire a Wedding Photographer?
For the best selection, book your wedding photographer 9-18 months in advance. If your wedding falls during peak season or a holiday weekend, aim for 12-18 months to ensure you secure your first choice.
The earlier you book, the less stress you’ll have, the more timeline flexibility you’ll get, and the better engagement session options you’ll have!
Looking for a Wedding Photographer in New Jersey?
At Timeline Visuals, we specialize in NJ wedding photography, capturing stunning, timeless images for couples throughout Morris County, NJ, and beyond.