What Is an Associate Photographer & Why It’s Included in My Wedding Photography Contract
One of the most common, and important, questions I get from couples during consultations is this:
“What would happen if you couldn’t make it on the day of our wedding?”
Right behind it comes the follow-up question:
“Would an associate photographer have the same style and attention to detail as you?”
These are valid questions, and they deserve clear, honest answers. That’s exactly why I include an associate photographer clause in my contract, and why I want to take a moment to explain what it truly means.
What Is an Associate Photographer?
An associate photographer is a professional photographer who steps in only if I am unable to attend due to circumstances beyond my control (such as illness or emergency). This isn’t a random replacement, it’s someone carefully chosen, experienced, and aligned with my approach to storytelling.
Even when an associate photographs the event:
I handle all image selection
I do all the editing
The final gallery reflects my style, vision, and standards
In other words, the creative direction never leaves my hands.
Why This Clause Exists in My Contract
A few weeks ago, I was incredibly excited to participate in a styled shoot in Dallas, Texas — one of those events wedding vendors love because it allows us to exchange knowledge, create beautiful imagery, connect, and grow creatively.
As the date approached, I realized I wouldn’t be able to attend.
Let me be very clear:
If this had been a client wedding, I would have been there, even if it meant extra costs, last-minute changes, or flying in and out quickly. Client commitments always come first.
But since this was a creative event, the right thing to do, because I had already committed and I stand firmly by my word, was to hire an associate photographer.
That associate was Merissa.
Why I Trust Associates — and Why You Can Too
I’ve worked as an associate photographer for other professionals in the past, but this was the first time I hired one for my own commitment. It gave me a deeper perspective on how important this role truly is.
Merissa photographed the event, and I handled:
The image curation
The editing
The final selection — deciding what makes the cut
This process mirrors exactly what would happen if, for any unforeseen reason, I were unable to photograph your wedding day myself.
I believe deeply in transparency and ethical representation. All images displayed throughout my website have been personally photographed by me, without exception, except for the images featured in this specific blog post, which are shared solely for educational and illustrative purposes.
I will never present work I did not personally photograph as my own. When couples request a full gallery for review or explore my portfolio here in my website, every gallery shown reflects weddings and sessions I personally captured. Associate-shot galleries are never included in my portfolio and are only shared upon clear request.
In the rare case where an associate photographer is involved, this is always disclosed openly and in advance. The images shown here were captured by my associate and fully curated and edited by me to demonstrate consistency in style and quality, while maintaining full honesty and transparency at every step.
What This Means for Your Wedding Day
Including an associate photographer clause is not about planning for the worst, it’s about protecting your experience.
It means:
Your wedding is never left uncovered
You receive a gallery that aligns with the style you booked
Your memories are handled with care, intention, and professionalism
I don’t take on just anyone as an associate. If I ever need one, it’s because I trust them to represent my brand, my values, and my couples.
The Bottom Line
I believe in being truthful, prepared, and respectful of every commitment I make. This experience reinforced why having an associate photographer option isn’t just smart, it’s responsible.
I invite you to look through the images from this event and decide for yourself. Consistency, emotion, and storytelling matter, and they remain at the heart of everything I deliver.
If you ever have questions about contracts, coverage, or contingencies, I’m always happy to talk them through. Your trust means everything to me
Host/Design/ Associate: @merissadphoto @victoriagreigphotography_
Planning: @sisteredstatesevents
Models: @merrik.ashlynn
Hair: @annasullivanhair
Makeup: @stylesbyvero @bridalpros
Florals: @sidestudioflorals
Gown: @aandbe_dallas @reevbridal
Rentals: @poshcouturerentals @bigdpartyrentals
Drapery: @partydallasrentals
Stationary: @pinkchampagnedesigns