In the long checklist of wedding planning, finding the perfect dress, venue, and caterer are often top priorities. But when it comes to booking a wedding photographer, many couples are unsure: How early is too early? And how late is too late?

Spoiler alert: if capturing the real, emotional moments of your day is important to you, photography should be one of the very first bookings you make. But let’s break it all down — regionally, seasonally, and logistically — so you can plan with confidence.

Why Timing Matters

The best wedding photographers are in high demand. Unlike florists or caterers who might serve several weddings per weekend, most photographers only book one wedding per day — and many limit the number of weddings they shoot per year to maintain quality and creativity.

That means once a date is taken… it’s gone.

So if you’re eyeing a popular venue or getting married during peak season (we’ll get to that), don’t wait.

The General Rule: 9–18 Months in Advance

A good rule of thumb is to book your photographer 9 to 18 months before your wedding. The earlier, the better — especially if:

You’re getting married in summer (June–September)
Your date falls on a Saturday
You want a photographer with a strong reputation and limited availability

Some photographers are fully booked a year or more in advance, particularly in sought-after locations like Copenhagen, Aarhus, or Odense.

Peak Wedding Season in Denmark

If you’re planning a Danish wedding, know this: May through September is prime wedding season. That means venues, photographers, and planners are all busier — and your options narrow the longer you wait.

May–June: Fresh greens, long days, and the promise of summer
July–August: The most popular months — great weather and vacation time
September: Underrated but beautiful, with softer light and a calm atmosphere

Planning a winter or early spring wedding? You’ll have more flexibility and availability, but you’ll still want to book early to secure someone whose style you love.

What Happens If You Book Too Late?

Here’s the risk of waiting too long:

Your top-choice photographer may already be taken
You may need to compromise on style or experience level
You’ll feel rushed making a decision without the time to build a relationship

Remember, your photographer isn’t just someone who shows up with a camera. They’ll be with you through intimate, emotional moments. You need time to get to know them — and they need time to understand you.

Destination Weddings and Elopements

If you’re planning a destination wedding in Denmark — especially in picturesque regions like Sjælland, Fyn, or Jylland — booking early is even more crucial.

Many international couples choose Denmark for its relaxed marriage laws and breathtaking backdrops. That means local photographers in scenic areas often get booked far in advance by couples from all over Europe and beyond.

Want to ensure you get a spot with an experienced, local visual storyteller? Start by checking availability at fotograf til bryllup, a trusted site for couples seeking honest, emotional photography across the country.

Signs You’ve Found “The One”

Once you’ve identified a photographer whose portfolio speaks to your heart, don’t hesitate. Quality wedding photographers often turn away couples because their calendars fill fast.

Here are signs you’ve found the right fit:

Their images make you feel something — not just admire them
Their communication is prompt, clear, and professional
They ask thoughtful questions about your story, values, and preferences
You feel like you could be yourself around them

When that happens, lock it in.

A great example of this kind of connection-first approach can be found at forevigt.dk, where the team prioritizes real emotion and timeless imagery over staged perfection.

Booking Timeline: Month by Month

Let’s make it easy. Here’s a suggested booking window based on your timeline:

18–12 Months Before

Start your search
Follow photographers on Instagram or visit their websites
Reach out to check availability and schedule a call

12–9 Months Before

Narrow down your top 2–3 choices
Ask to see full wedding galleries (not just highlights)
Discuss packages, travel fees, and coverage options
Book your photographer and sign the contract

6 Months Before

Schedule an engagement session if included
Share your wedding timeline and key moments to capture

1–2 Months Before

Finalize logistics: venue access, timing, group shots, lighting
Communicate any last-minute requests or must-have shots

Planning early = relaxing later.

Bonus: What to Ask Before You Book

Don’t just go by the portfolio. Ask questions that help you understand the experience:

Will you be the one photographing us, or someone else from your team?
What’s your backup plan if you’re sick or unable to attend?
How do you handle difficult lighting or weather?
When and how will we receive the final photos?
Do you help with timeline planning to maximize light?

These conversations help you build trust — and trust leads to better, more honest photos.

Remember: It’s Not Just About the Photos — It’s About the Person

The best wedding photography doesn’t come from the best gear. It comes from connection.

It comes from a photographer who sees the way you look at each other. Who notices the nervous laughter, the quiet moment before the vows, the tears during speeches. That kind of seeing takes time — and the sooner you book, the more time your photographer has to know you.

Looking for someone who believes in exactly that? Then bryllupsfotograf is a great place to begin your search.

Final Thought

There’s a reason photography is one of the few wedding expenses that increases in value over time. In ten, twenty, or fifty years, your wedding photos will still matter. They’ll remind you of who you were — and how it all began.

So don’t wait. The best time to book your wedding photographer? As soon as your date is set.

Your memories are worth it.

When Should You Book Your Wedding Photographer?