Common scams


Wedding photography scams in the UK, like in many other countries, can be a serious issue for couples looking to capture their special day. Scammers often target couples by offering attractive deals that turn out to be fraudulent or unprofessional. Here are some common types of wedding photography scams and red flags to watch out for:



Too Good to Be True Prices:

  • Some scammers offer incredibly low prices, often far below the industry standard. While everyone loves a deal, if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers use low rates to lure couples in, only to provide poor-quality photos or, worse, no photos at all.
  • Tip: Compare multiple photographers' rates to understand what's reasonable in your area. A significant outlier should raise red flags.

Non-Existent Portfolio:

Scammers may not have a real portfolio of past weddings, or they may show you someone else’s work. They may also only provide edited, heavily filtered images that don’t reflect actual wedding day photography.

  • Tip: Ask for a full portfolio of actual weddings (not just staged or styled photos) and make sure you get a chance to meet with past clients or read reviews.

Unrealistic Promises:

  • Some scammers might promise an unrealistic number of photos, or offer "unlimited" editing, packages that seem too generous for the price. These can be signs of someone who lacks experience or is trying to lure you into booking with a false guarantee.
  • Tip: Be cautious of photographers who make promises that sound too good to be true without any clear terms and conditions. A seasoned photographer will explain their typical deliverables and timelines.

No Written Contract:

  • Legitimate photographers always provide a detailed contract outlining the services, expectations, payment schedule, and deliverables. Scammers may avoid paperwork or insist on only verbal agreements.
  • Tip: Never book a photographer without a written contract. The contract should clearly state the agreed-upon services, deadlines for receiving photos, payment schedules, and any other important details.

“Deposit” Requests:

  • Scammers often ask for a large upfront deposit, sometimes the full amount, and then disappear once they've received the money.
  • Tip: While deposits are normal, they should be reasonable (usually 20-30%) and the payment structure should be outlined in the contract. Avoid paying large sums upfront for deposits, usually the full balance is due 4 weeks before your wedding day.

“Too Busy to Meet in Person”:

  • Some scammers may avoid meeting with you in person or having a video call, and instead only communicate via email or text messages. This could be a tactic to avoid being scrutinized.
  • Tip: Always try to meet in person or have a video call with the photographer before signing any contracts. This helps to ensure they are legitimate and that you’re comfortable with them.

Poor Communication:

  • A photographer who is difficult to get ahold of, unresponsive, or vague in their answers may be a red flag. Scammers often don’t respond promptly to questions or give vague answers about their process.
  • Tip: Look for a photographer who communicates clearly and promptly. You should feel comfortable asking questions and getting responses that are straightforward and professional.

Photographer Never Shows Up:

  • This is perhaps the worst outcome. Some scammers may take your deposit and fail to show up on your wedding day, leaving you without any photos or recourse.
  • Tip: Make sure to check the photographer’s reputation, look for online reviews, and confirm that they have experience shooting weddings. A solid backup plan (e.g., having a secondary photographer or a contract that provides some kind of guarantee) can also help protect you.


How to protect yourself


  • Research and Reviews: Always read reviews from other couples, check social media pages, and search for any complaints about the photographer. Websites like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Facebook can be helpful.
  • Meet in Person: If possible, meet with the photographer in person (or via video call if you're in a different location). This helps ensure they are legitimate and gives you a chance to discuss your vision.
  • Check Credentials: Look for a photographer who is a member of reputable industry bodies such as the The Guild of Photographers, which can add credibility.
  • Verify Contact Information: Make sure their website, email, and phone number match up, and that their business address is legitimate.


What to Do if You Suspect a Scam:

Report it: If you believe you've been scammed, report this incident to your bank. If found to be fraudulent activity, the bank may be able to recover these funds for you.

Contact the Venue: Sometimes wedding venues will have experience with scam photographers and may be able to offer advice or help.

Check Payment Methods: If you've already paid, check whether any payment services or banks offer chargeback options for fraudulent transactions.


Conclusion:

While wedding photography scams are a serious concern, there are ways to avoid falling victim to them. Do thorough research, ask for referrals, and make sure everything is in writing with clear terms and agreements. By staying vigilant and following these guidelines, you can protect yourself and ensure that your wedding photos are a cherished part of your big day.