Should You Provide a Tip for the Wedding Photographer?
I’ve seen this question pretty often in local bride groups wondering if they should provide a tip for the wedding photographer. The idea of gratuity (and tipping) in the U.S. is quite customary for some services, I totally get how it can be confusing.
Providing a tip for the wedding photographer
Whether you tip the wedding photographer or not is entirely up to you.In my opinion, exceptional service in the wedding industry (and all industries) should be the baseline. However, if you would like to tip a service provider for going above and beyond, it’s your choice.
Other instances where you may tip your wedding photographer. Some photographers freelance for major companies like George Street, Lily and Lime and Eivan’s. A lot of times, these photographers are making the bare minimum in the wedding photography industry.
Examples of when you may consider providing a tip for a wedding photographer
For example, your photographer brought extra items like umbrellas, etc for you two during formal portraits. Another example would be starting hours earlier than what they’re contracted for. I would say if you have your heart set on tipping the wedding photographer, do it when they exceed your expectations.
What about other vendors?
In my opinion, if you really want to tip, I would consider tipping any professional or service provider who will be there for more than several hours.
Here’s a list of wedding vendors you may consider tipping (completely optional, of course):
- Bartenders (especially if it’s a cash bar)
- Servers
- Day of Coordinator(s)
- Videographers
- Professional Hair and Makeup Artists
- Driver (Private Rental Company or Uber/Lyft)
Summary
In closing, tipping is always optional and entirely up to you. With that being said, no wedding photographer is going to shame you for not tipping. If you do decide on tipping your wedding photographer, they’ll be more than grateful.
I’m Niesha, a Houston wedding and elopement photographer. I would love to help you document your love story and wedding day. Feel free to take a look around the blog for other helpful tips or resources. Want to inquire with me? Complete the form to inquire and I’ll reach out to you via email.
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