Hiring · Guide · Updated 1 April 2026

The wedding photography payment schedule — how to structure it

Most photographers propose 50/50. Push for 30/30/40. Here's why.

Wedding Photography Payment Schedule

The three stages

Retainer 30% (non-refundable). Mid 30% at 60 days. Final 40% on delivery — this is your leverage.

Frequently asked

Why not pay on wedding day?

You want leverage during editing and delivery. Never surrender it.