Booking a wedding photographer is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make for your day — and unfortunately, it’s also one of the most common areas where couples get scammed. If you’re like me, you’ve probably seen the horror stories on TikTok or Facebook: photographers who take the money and run, never show up, or even lie about who’s actually going to be there on the wedding day. It’s heartbreaking — wonderful couples who didn't deserve to not only lose out financially, but sentimentally. The truth is, scammers exist in every industry, and wedding photography is no different. The good news? A little bit of research and the right questions will help you see the red flags and help you find the perfect fit. Here’s how to spot the scams before they spot you:
1. Influence ≠ Experience
Having a big following on social media doesn’t always mean someone is professional or experienced. Many photographers with large platforms are amazing at what they do — but don’t let likes and followers be your only measure. Ask yourself: do you connect with their work or just with their online presence? At the end of the day, it’s the photos you’ll look back on, not their follower count.
2. Do a Little Digging
Before you book, search their name in local and national Facebook groups. Seeing nothing at all isn’t necessarily bad — but seeing a string of negative experiences definitely is. Most of the time, if one couple has had a bad experience with a photographer, others have too. A quick check can save you from walking into the same situation.
3. Ask to See a Full Gallery
It’s easy for anyone to post a handful of highlight photos from a wedding, but the real test is in the full gallery. A professional should be able to show you an entire wedding from start to finish, not just the best five shots. This ensures you’ll know what to expect across portraits, candids, reception lighting, and everything in between.
4. Use Reputable Payment Systems
Everyone loves quick apps like Venmo, Zelle, or CashApp, but those don’t offer you much protection. A professional photographer will send you an itemized invoice through a secure platform like Honeybook, Square, or Stripe. This not only protects your money, it shows that your photographer is running their business legitimately and transparently.
5. Watch Out for Desperate Pitches
If you post in a Facebook group and someone comes across as overly pushy or desperate in their responses, trust your gut. A little enthusiasm is great — but if it feels like someone is trying too hard to book you, there’s usually a reason. A solid professional will be confident in their work and let their portfolio speak for itself.
Bonus Tip: Trust Your Gut
The biggest takeaway? If something feels off, it probably is. Booking a wedding photographer is about more than just pictures — it’s about trust, connection, and feeling confident that you’re in good hands.
Your wedding photos are an investment in how you’ll remember one of the biggest days of your life. Do your homework, ask the right questions, and don’t be afraid to walk away if the red flags start popping up. The right photographer will make you feel at ease from the first conversation to the final gallery — and that peace of mind is priceless.
