What Is an Associate Wedding Photographer? Everything You Need to Know

So you’ve found a wedding photographer you love, but they’re already booked for your date. Before you start looking for someone else, there’s another option you might not have considered: working with an associate wedding photographer! This is something I offer when I’m personally unavailable, and it’s a great way to still get the photography experience you’re looking for. But what exactly does that mean, and how does it all work? Let me walk you through it!

What Is an Associate Wedding Photographer, and When Do I Offer One?

An associate wedding photographer is another experienced photographer who steps in to photograph your wedding or session in my place. They’re photographers I already know, trust, and have worked with, so you’re not just getting someone random showing up on your wedding day!

I typically offer associate photographers when I’m already booked or won’t be on the island for your date. In rare situations, an associate might also step in if an emergency happens. I’ve actually had this happen when I injured my foot and ended up on crutches. There was no way I could photograph a wedding like that, so having someone I trusted who could step in was incredibly helpful.

How I Choose My Associates

One thing I want couples to know is that I’m very intentional about who I work with. My associate photographers are people I already trust to second shoot weddings alongside me. So chances are, if you had booked me personally, they might have been there photographing your wedding with me anyway!

And trust me, I don’t just work with anybody! I need to know they’re experienced, professional, comfortable working with couples and families, and understand my approach to photography. Before your wedding, I also send over all the important details, including your timeline, shot list, locations, and preferences. That way, they’re showing up already knowing what’s important to you and what you’re envisioning for your photos.

What to Expect When Working With an Associate Wedding Photographer

The biggest thing to know is that you’re still working with me and my business throughout the entire process. I’ll handle the communication, planning, and logistics leading up to your wedding, just like I normally would. A few days before your date, I’ll connect you with your associate photographer so you can get to know each other beforehand. They’ll photograph your wedding, but everything else, including your final gallery, will still be handled through my business.

The elopement featured in this blog is actually a great example! I wasn’t going to be on the island for this couple’s date, so I offered them my associate team instead. From getting ready to their sunset portraits on the beach, they still had all those moments captured while enjoying their time together. It’s exactly the kind of experience I want every couple to have, whether I’m personally behind the camera or not!

Ready For Me Or My Associates To Capture Your Dream Wedding?

Lohelani Photos | Oahu Wedding Photographer

If you’ve reached out and I’m not personally available for your wedding date, don’t worry! Working with an associate wedding photographer can be a great alternative, and I’ll always be upfront about what that looks like before you make any decisions. My goal is for you to feel comfortable, taken care of, and confident in the person photographing your wedding. So if you’re planning an Oahu wedding or elopement and want to learn more about my associate team, I’d love to chat and see what options we have for your date! If you want to learn more about me and what I do, click here. Can’t wait to hear from you!