How Far in Advance to Book Wedding Photographer | Booking Tips for UK Couples
How far in advance to book your wedding photographer is one of the first big questions couples face when planning a wedding. And it’s a smart one to ask early, especially if you’re dreaming of relaxed, candid photos and a photographer who truly gets your vibe. In this post, we’ll help you figure out the best booking timeline and what to expect if you wait too long.
Let’s break down the best timeline for booking your photographer (especially if you’re in Shropshire, the West Midlands, Staffordshire, Worcestershire, or anywhere in the UK) and why waiting too long could mean missing out on your perfect fit.
How Far in Advance to Book Wedding Photographer? (The Short Answer)
Most couples book their wedding photographer between 9 and 18 months before their big day.
But why so early? Because documentary-style photographers, the ones who capture genuine, in-the-moment magic are often take on a limited number of weddings each year. Once those dates are gone, they’re gone.
So if you’ve found someone whose style makes your heart skip a beat… book them. Don’t wait.
Every Moment Captured
Why Booking Early Matters
Right, what happens when you book your wedding photographer early:
✅ You secure your dream photographer before anyone else does
✅ You get priority access to pre-wedding shoots (like engagement sessions)
✅ You have time to build a genuine connection before the big day
✅ You lock in current pricing (photographers often raise rates yearly)
Bonus: Booking early means less stress. Wedding planning is chaotic — this is one big decision you can tick off confidently.
Your Story Begins
Wedding Photographer Booking Timeline for UK Couples
Here’s a breakdown based on different wedding planning scenarios:
💍 12–18 Months Before: The Sweet Spot
Ideal for peak wedding season (May–September in the UK)
Especially important if your date is a Saturday or a bank holiday weekend
Best for couples looking for candid, documentary-style photography, these photographers book up fast
📅 9–12 Months Before: Still Great
Good availability if you’re flexible on dates
Plenty of time to plan pre-wedding sessions or scout locations
Recommended for off-season weddings (October–April)
🚨 6–9 Months Before: Getting Risky
You might still find someone amazing, but availability will be tight
Expect your top choices to already be booked, especially in Shropshire and West Midlands areas where venues book early too
😅 3–6 Months Before: You’ll Need a Bit of Luck
You’ll likely need to compromise on either style, budget, or personality fit
Some photographers may be available due to cancellations, it’s worth asking!
Choosing the Right Photographer Once You’ve Booked Early
It’s not just about the photos it’s about how they make you feel.
Ask yourself:
Do you connect with their style? Candid, emotional, real moments?
Do you vibe with their personality?
Can you imagine spending your whole wedding day with this person?
Your photographer will be there for your quiet, behind-the-scenes moments and your wild dancefloor ones. Choose someone who “gets” you and your story not someone who’s just checking boxes.
If you want help with this, I have written a guide “How To Find The Right Wedding Photographer For You!”
Every Moment Captured
Shropshire & UK Wedding Photography Availability
If you’re planning a wedding in:
Shropshire, Staffordshire, West Midlands, Worcestershire…remember that these areas are popular for countryside, barn, and relaxed outdoor weddings. Many photographers here limit themselves to 25–30 weddings per year to maintain that relaxed, personal feel.
📸 Translation: Don’t wait until your venue recommends someone. Start looking as soon as you’ve booked your date.
FAQs About How Far in Advance to Book Wedding Photographer
Ideally, 12–18 months in advance, especially for peak season or sought-after documentary photographers.
For more help with your full wedding planning timeline, check out this UK wedding planning guide on Hitched.
You may need to compromise on style, price, or availability. Some photographers might still have last-minute openings, but it’s best not to rely on luck!
Possibly, but options will be limited. If you’re flexible on dates or looking at off-season weddings, you might still find someone great.
If possible, yes! Whether it’s an in-person coffee chat or a quick Zoom call, connection is everything. You want to trust the person capturing your most personal moments.
Typically, book the venue first, then lock in your photographer right after. Popular photographers will ask for your date before confirming availability.
Look for someone whose style aligns with your vision whether that’s candid, editorial, or traditional. Check their full wedding galleries (not just Instagram highlights), read reviews, and make sure their personality clicks with yours. You’ll spend more time with them than almost anyone else on your wedding day, so connection is key.
You can, especially if the photographer is your top priority just know they’ll need a confirmed date to officially hold it. Some couples fall in love with a specific photographer’s style and reach out before booking a venue, especially for elopements or flexible weekday weddings.
Many do! It’s common for photographers to split the payment into two or three instalments, typically with a booking fee (deposit) upfront to secure your date, and the balance due closer to the wedding. Don’t be afraid to ask; most are happy to work with you.
Final Thoughts
So if you’ve been wondering how far in advance to book your wedding photographer, the answer is: as early as possible. It’s the best way to lock in your dream photographer and enjoy a stress-free wedding experience.
Booking your wedding photographer isn’t just another to-do, it’s an emotional investment. You’re choosing someone to witness and preserve your real love story.
So whether you’re planning a Shropshire countryside wedding or eloping in the UK hills, book early, trust your gut, and choose someone who sees you, not just your Pinterest board.
I would love to hear your story!
