Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and your photos should reflect that. While hiring an associate photographer—someone shooting on behalf of a lead photographer—might seem like a budget-friendly or convenient option, there are a few reasons to reconsider.

1. Inconsistent Style & Quality – The lead photographer’s portfolio may be what attracted you, but an associate’s work may not fully match that vision. Editing can only do so much to compensate for differences in skill, composition, and artistic approach. Every photographer worth their salt will have their own eye for composition and subject and how they approach it. While the approaches may be similar, they are very unlikely to be the same.

2. Lack of Personal Connection – A great wedding photographer doesn’t just take photos—they build a relationship with you to understand your style, personality, and what moments matter most. An associate often doesn’t have that same connection, which can lead to less personalized results. You may spend your entire planning process speaking to a different person than who shows up on your wedding day. Often associate shooters are given your details and information only days before your wedding. My client's experience is of the upmost importance to me, and if I'm not there, I cannot manage that experience.

3. Less Experience & Investment – Associates are often less experienced than the main photographer, which could mean they struggle with tricky lighting, fast-paced moments, or handling unexpected challenges. In the 15 years of photographing hundreds of weddings as a lead and second shooter, I have not worked a wedding that didn't present a major challenge. Associates also may not be as invested in your wedding day since they’re working under someone else’s brand. Most associates are payed between $80-$150 an hour to show up and shoot your wedding. Many turn over the images and never look at them again. That's a big difference from someone who manages the business, has a financial stake in its success, and a passion for the quality of the product.

While an associate photographer might still capture beautiful moments, hiring the actual photographer whose work you love ensures your memories are in the hands of someone you fully trust. When it comes to your wedding day, you deserve nothing less. I do not offer any associate photographer packages at Alexis Sweet Photography. I am deeply passionate about the connection I create with my clients, and the responsibility of creating a cherished record of an important day. If you book a wedding with Alexis Sweet Photography, Alexis Sweet will be the primary photographer at your wedding. It is the only way I'd ever imagine doing business.

images captured for Mackensey Alexander Photography