Hot Take: You don't need to tip your wedding photographer.


There are plenty of wedding photographers who will disagree with this. I think the majority, however, would say that while a tip is appreciated, it's never expected. My belief is that if a wedding photographer's pricing model is crafted around their CODB (cost of doing business), they don't need to expect or account for a tip to be given.


*Of course, if you think your photographer did a great job and you just want to give them extra recognition, please leave a tip!*


Aside from what may sound negative or cynical, I'm trying to shift the tipping suggestion to something much more impactful: leaving reviews. Now, I don't think it needs to be one way or the other. But if you were to choose between the two, choose the option that can help a small business in the long-term.


There are so many ways that leaving reviews can benefit small businesses. Here are some of the biggest ways:

Trust & Credibility

Customer reviews provide personal testimonials that give potential clients insights into their future experiences. Endorsements build confidence and reassure customers in their decisions. A consistent record of positive feedback enhances a business's credibility, showcasing reliability and commitment to excellent service, and demonstrating value for customers.

Constructive Feedback

Customer reviews provide direct insights into what’s working well and areas needing improvement. Negative feedback presents opportunities to address issues promptly, showcasing excellent customer service. Businesses can use reviews to pinpoint and enhance products, services, and operations, ultimately improving customer experiences and fostering loyalty.

Influencing Leads

Before purchasing, 98% of shoppers rely on others' opinions to gauge quality and boost confidence. Positive, genuine reviews directly influence sales by fostering trust in peer-endorsed products. Authentic feedback provides valuable insights, guiding informed decisions and supporting genuine business growth.

SEO Benefits

Each new review boosts a business's visibility on platforms like Google, WeddingWire, or Facebook, improving search result rankings for related products or services. For local businesses, positive reviews are crucial for high local search rankings, signaling active customer engagement and enhancing online presence.

As someone with 6+ years of experience in the world of wedding photography, I understand the significance of every review.


Your heartfelt testimonials go beyond mere recommendations; they highlight the unique qualities of each photographer, helping future couples envision their own special day. Your words not only boost a photographer’s visibility and credibility, but also contribute to their growth and ability to serve others passionately. By sharing your experiences, you're not just supporting a business—you're celebrating moments of joy and capturing memories that last a lifetime.


Whether you choose to leave a tip or write a review, remember that your voice has the power to shape the future of small businesses and wedding photography as a whole, and create lasting connections within our awesome community.