Bridezillas sting photographers

Bridezillas are costing photographers thousands this wedding season by disputing the quality of photographs and not only refusing to pay but suing for damages.

The average cost of weddings is now reaching £17,000 and, with wedding photography around £1,000, there is a lot at stake before you take into account the emotive considerations and solicitors legal bills defending legal actions.

Peter Stevenson, director at photography insurance specialists Alan Stevenson Partnership, said photographers are being stung by couples trying to point the finger of blame for perceived failures in the conduct of their professional duties.

He added: “Weddings are very costly and it is understandable couples expect the highest quality in return for paying high bills.

“We’ve noticed a growing problem with couples taking action against photographers, saying they are unhappy with the quality of photos. We’ve had cases where the images are actually of a high quality, but the bride doesn’t like how she looks.

“In cases where couples question their wedding images, we have appointed independent advisors to scrutinise the photography and pass judgement on whether the photographer has followed the given brief and whether the photographs are of an appropriate standard.”

Professional indemnity cover not only protects photographers from any alleged failures and mishaps but also issues such as not taking all the requested photos or losing the camera film.

Insurance protects photographers from having to repay costs personally and also protects claims from brides who simply wanted to look better in their photos.

Peter added: “It’s not unusual for photographers to draw up a contract explaining how he/she will operate. This helps if any future lawsuit should follow but is no guarantee a legal dispute will not have to be defended.

“It is essential photographers have adequate insurance cover to overcome such obstacles.”

Alan Stevenson Partnership has more than 20 years experience insuring photographers. Cover under its Photographers Insurance Protection policy includes professional negligence, public liability, employer’s liability, website and email liability and equipment ‘All Risks’ insurance.

The standard limits for Professional Negligence are £250,000, public liability £2,000,000 Employers Liability £10,000,000.

Visit www.areyousure.co.uk for further details.

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