Photography payments

I don't see an issue with making multiple payments in and of itself, although it seems a bit of a hassle, but I definitely wouldn't sign anything/pay anything until seeing a contract! You need to know exactly what you are getting/not getting before signing up to anything.

Do they have a website as well as a Facebook page? Wanting you to make a payment before letting you know the Terms & Conditions, not answering questions about insurance, 'typically' asking for payment instalments around Christmas and New Year... I'm wondering if they are a hobby photographer trying to look more professional than they really are.

The lack of website, the insistence on payment before seeing a contract (what do you do if there is something in the contract you're not happy about? We had to ditch one photographer because of a clause in her contract that we couldn't agree to), the low cost... I'd walk away from this one.

As romantic27135 says too many warning signs. And just each one on their own should be enough to walk away. Not sending the contract unless you have paid - is the biggest one. Best to also find someone who has a proper website not just Facebook.

I don't base my prices around times because weddings do not always go exactly to schedule, you need to see what the contract says about how much you may have to pay for extra time on the day.

Thank you for the mention - I was typing as you were typing and didn't see it.

Run away now! There are too many red flags, I work in commercial contract law and this is very alarming business practice. You should only ever pay a deposit upon signing of a contract and normally you need to pay within 14 days as you have consumer rights protection for cessation or cool off time. I can pretty much bet they are not set up as a company and registered on companies house and will have no business bank accounts or insurance. This one seems me to be someone who does it as a side gig and is not reputable.

We see all too often on here people have issues when they dont turn up, dont deliver the photos so it is important to really research a decent photographer and review their terms before signing, Agree with RGS, bill is the guru on this and if he says this is ringing alarm bells then walk away.

Hope you manage to find a photographer you love very soon.

Most photographers (including myself) usually take about 20% (sometimes up to 50%) off the total package price prior to the wedding, the remaining is then due 30 days before the wedding, similar to the venue. Very rarely on the actual wedding date itself - imagine going to up to the Bride and Groom on the night and having to ask them to transfer you the money.... It's not unusual for the instalments tbh, I've seem multiple businesses do this, especially helpful if on a budget. Also, no money should be passed to anyone without signing a contract first. Hope that helps.