Good question! We hear this all the time, so I thought it would be a great subject for a blog post.
First, it is amazing how many calls we receive just a few months before the wedding from those seeking a professional wedding photographer who will make their memories come true forever with those special images. Except by an occassional fluke or last minute "the wedding is off!" cancellations, most popular dates are already taken. Especially of course, Saturdays.
There are literally NO advantages to waiting to book your photographer. In fact, the opposite is true.
I suggest booking 12-18 months minimum in advance. The benefits to you are many:
- You (most likely) get to choose which
photographer you want. Chances of already being booked that far ahead are slight.
- You may (you will with me, anyhow) save money. When I book ahead into the next year, I do so at present year rates, likely saving hundreds of dollars of possible rate increases.
- How good will it feel to have another key planning element of the wedding "all taken care of"? REALLY GOOD!
I am now booking for 2009 dates (and beyond) as well as the remaining 2008 dates. All it takes to lock in your date is a $600 retainer (which of course is applied to the package cost).
I'd love to talk over your wedding plans, please call (207.233.4050) or email (russ@wed-pix.com) any time.