In June, Mr. and Mrs. Zhang from Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, hired a photographer for documentary-style wedding photography at a cost of 5,000 yuan (approximately 18.5 million VND). They paid 50% upfront.

After the wedding, the couple stated that the photo quality was far below the sample products. According to Zhang, many photos were blurry, distorted, or overexposed. Close-up shots of the bride and groom were scarce, while still-life shots and guest photos predominated. Many guests were photographed with their eyes closed, service staff appeared in the frames, and notably, the ring exchange ceremony was not captured.

One of the wedding photos.

The couple proposed paying the remaining 2,500 yuan if the photographer acknowledged the shortcomings and addressed them adequately, or if both parties would end the dispute and cancel the outstanding payment. The photographer refused, arguing that the photography style was a personal artistic choice, and announced legal action to demand payment.

Two months after the wedding, Mr. and Mrs. Zhang received a court summons. The couple is now preparing to file a countersuit against the photographer.

Zhang's wife stated she went to the ward office to file a complaint on the afternoon they received the photos. Over the past two months, she has suffered from insomnia and lost 4.5 kg. Medical records show she was diagnosed with anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders.

According to Zhang, protecting consumer rights in wedding photography is challenging due to a lack of clear legal standards regarding aesthetics. He noted that some photographers use the phrase "documentary style" to explain away faulty photos.

"Before clients can even file a complaint, they are sued, which creates immense pressure," Zhang stated.

By Nhat Minh (Source: News China)