How Far in Advance Should You Book a Wedding Photographer?
It's one of the first questions couples ask after getting engaged — and the answer is almost always: earlier than you think. Here's a clear-eyed look at how far in advance you should book a wedding photographer, why the best teams fill quickly, and what to do if your date is closer than you'd like.
The Short Answer: 12–18 Months Is the Sweet Spot
For weddings on popular dates — spring and autumn Saturdays, long weekends, and the weeks around Christmas — 12 to 18 months in advance is the window where you'll have the widest choice of quality photographers and videographers. Book inside this window and you're in good shape.
For weekday weddings, Sundays, or dates in the quieter winter months, you may have more flexibility — but 9–12 months is still a smart target.
Why Do Good Teams Book Out So Early?
Experienced photographers and videographers take on a limited number of weddings per year — usually between 30 and 50. They do this deliberately: it protects the quality of their work and ensures every couple gets proper attention in editing and delivery. Once those dates are gone, they're gone.
High-demand dates fill fastest. A Saturday in April or October in Melbourne can be fully booked 18–24 months out for the most sought-after teams.
What If Your Wedding Is Sooner?
Don't panic — but do move quickly. Here's how to approach a shorter timeline:
Be flexible on style. If your first-choice photographer is booked, look for teams with a similar aesthetic rather than holding out.
Ask about cancellations. Occasionally dates open up — it's always worth asking directly.
Combine photo and video under one team. A duo that does both is one booking instead of two, which simplifies the search considerably.
When Should You Start Looking?
The moment you have a venue and a date confirmed, photography and videography should be the next call you make — before the florist, before the caterer, before the cake. Almost everything else can be arranged in the final months. Your creative team cannot.
Don't Leave It to the Last Minute
We're Darlan and Christian, a Melbourne and Adelaide photo and video duo. If you've just set your date, now is the right time to reach out. Our $4,500 Full Day Photo + Video Package includes a two-person team, engagement shoot, drone footage, album, film photos, and your wedding film. Get in touch with Honey Weddings to check availability for 2026 and 2027.
Unsure what to look for once you start searching? Read What Questions Should You Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before Booking.