Imagine it’s your big event or corporate branding shoot. You’ve spent time planning every detail.
The location is ready, the people are in place, and the moment has arrived.
But when the photos are delivered, they’re blurry, poorly framed, and missing everything that mattered most.
It’s not just disappointing. It’s a lasting letdown.
This is exactly what allegedly happened to a couple in New York.
Patrick Brown and Cheryl Carley hired a photographer called Michael Ivory to capture their wedding. What they received was a set of photos that were, in their words, worse than the ones taken by guests on their phones.
Many of the key moments were missed. Some of the photos were completely out of focus. The photographer even asked guests how to take proper pictures.
The couple is now taking legal action to try and get their money back.
Their story has made headlines, but the lesson behind it is clear for everyone, whether you’re planning a wedding, a big family party, or a shoot for your business. Choosing the right photographer isn’t just about picking someone with a nice-looking website. It’s about doing your research and knowing exactly who you’re hiring.
Start with references. A professional photographer should be able to give you the names of past clients who are happy to share their experience.
Ask what the service was like, how the photographer behaved on the day, and whether they delivered what was promised. These conversations can reveal far more than a social media profile ever could.
It’s also worth asking to see a full gallery of images from a similar job.
Most photographers post highlights online, but it’s important to know whether they can keep that same quality across a whole shoot. Look for moments that matter to you.
If you’re planning a branding shoot, check if the work shows personality, purpose and detail. If it’s an event, see if the energy and atmosphere come through clearly.
Make sure the photographer understands exactly what you need.
In Brown and Carley’s case, they advised the photographer to bring a second person to help capture everything. He didn’t, and many important shots were missed.
For any kind of shoot, clear planning is key. Discuss what you want and confirm that the photographer is confident in meeting your expectations.
Professionalism is another sign you’ve made the right choice.
Are they easy to reach? Do they reply to emails promptly? Do they explain their process clearly? Good communication matters just as much as good photography.
After their wedding, Brown and Carley said the photographer became unhelpful and eventually cut off all contact. You deserve someone who takes your shoot seriously, from start to finish.
Price is always part of the decision, but it should never be the only factor.
The couple in New York went with someone in the middle of their budget range, thinking it was a sensible choice. In hindsight, they wished they’d paid a little more for someone with a stronger reputation.
It’s not about spending as much as you can, but making sure you’re getting real value for the money.
Above all, trust your instincts.
If a photographer says all the right things but something doesn’t feel quite right, listen to that feeling. This is someone who will be part of your day or your business story.
You need to feel comfortable and confident with them from the very start.
There’s no second chance to capture these moments. A good photographer will help you remember them the way they deserve to be remembered.
If you’re planning an event or looking to create thoughtful, professional images for your brand or business, I’d love to hear from you.
Let’s talk about what you need and how we can bring it to life through natural, well-crafted photography. Get in touch today.
