Payment Schedules

One of the photographer-related questions that comes up fairly often on message boards is about payment schedules. People wonder if it's normal to pay a photographer in full before they get their wedding pictures, and the answer is yes, it's very normal.

Typically photographers ask for a retainer upfront (the amount can vary, but usually is no more than 1/2 of the total amount due). This retainer is usually non-refundable (but check with your photographer to make sure.) It basically guarantees you their services on the date you have selected and agreed to.

Many photographers then have the remainder of the balance due on the day of the wedding. A few photographers have a 1/3 deposit upfront, a 1/3 payment the day of the wedding, and the final 1/3 due when proofs are delivered, but the majority have whatever the remaining balance is due the day of the wedding.

A few photographers have the entire amount due before the wedding, but those are rare. If your photographer is asking for the entire amount upfront (upfront meaning before they even show up to photograph your wedding), I'd be sure that they are a reputable, well-established photographer AND that you've first talked with several satisifed clients that have gotten and liked their albums before considering paying the entire amount upfront.

© 2004-2008 Jacqueline L. Beck. All rights reserved.