when should you book a wedding photographer?

Jan 11

how early should I book a wedding photographer

how far in advance should you Book Your Wedding Photographer in Muskoka?

How far in advance do we actually need to book our wedding photographer? If you’re newly engaged and dreaming of a lakeside celebration in Muskoka, a cozy venue near Parry Sound, or something closer to Orillia or Barrie, the short answer is this…

Photography is one of the first things you should lock in, and timing matters more than most couples realize. Let’s break it down in a way that’s practical, realistic and stress-reducing.

The short answer is 12-18 months in advance.

If you’re getting married on a summer or fall Saturday, plan to book your wedding photographer about 12 to 18 months out. For off-peak or weekday dates, you usually have more wiggle room and can often book comfortably within 6 to 12 months in advance.

Why the best wedding photographers book up early in Muskoka

Muskoka is a destination wedding hotspot. Couples travel from across the country as well as abroad for our waterfront views, fall colours and that relaxed cottage-country feel. The catch? Photographers can only shoot one wedding per day, and there are only so many Saturdays in a season.

Between Barrie, Huntsville and Parry Sound, popular dates disappear fast, especially during peak months. Industry research from wedding authorities like The Knot and WeddingWire consistently shows photography is one of the earliest vendors couples book, often right after their venue.

Already know who your dream photographer is?

Don’t wait. If you already have your heart set on a specific photographer, reach out as soon as you’re engaged. I hear from couples several times each year who know exactly who they want to work with and start by asking which dates I have available for a particular season or year.

They then build their venue search around those open dates. If you’re confident about the vendors you want, this is a smart move and can make the rest of your planning feel a whole lot easier.

Peak season weddings May to October

If your wedding is between May and October, you’re in peak season. In Muskoka, that usually means summer lake weddings and fall colour celebrations, both extremely popular. Read more about the best months for a wedding in Ontario.

Recommended booking window: 12 to 18 months in advance. I often have couples booking me 14 to 24 months in advance.

Why it matters:

Summer and fall Saturdays book first
Popular destination-style venues attract out-of-town couples
Waiting limits your choice for all vendors

What to sort out beforehand

You don’t need every detail figured out, but a few things help before signing a contract.

A general timeline and location: Knowing the season, approximate month and general area matters. Availability looks very different for a July Saturday in Muskoka than a February weekday in Barrie.
Your budget: Not the most fun conversation, but an important one. Knowing your comfort range helps narrow options and avoids frustration later. Learn more about the average cost of a wedding photographer in Ontario.
Your venue: Your venue controls your date. Some Muskoka-area venues also have logistical requirements or preferred vendor lists, so it’s best to have this confirmed before officially booking. You can absolutely reach out to photographers to check availability before the venue is locked in, just avoid signing until both align.

What to do before you officially book:

Do your research: Instagram is a highlight reel. Always look through full wedding galleries to see how a photographer handles different lighting, weather, and real moments throughout the day.
Meet over a video call or face to face: You’ll spend a lot of time with your photographer on your wedding day. Feeling comfortable with them matters just as much as loving their work.
Ask to see full galleries: Look beyond the sunset shots. Consistency across an entire day is what shows a photographer’s true experience.

So when should you book your wedding photographer, really?

Once your date and venue are confirmed, start reaching out. For most Muskoka and area couples:

12 to 18 months ahead is ideal for peak season Saturdays
6 to 12 months can work well for off-season or weekday weddings
Under six months is possible, but flexibility helps

Bottom line: If you find a photographer whose work feels right and whose personality clicks with yours, don’t wait. Even if you don’t have a venue or date yet, reach out to your dream photographer and ask for their available dates. Booking early gives you peace of mind, better planning flexibility and confidence that your Muskoka wedding will be captured beautifully.

Planning a Wedding in Muskoka?