What happens if our photographer is sick on the day?

I think everyone has covered it below really well.  

Photographers know theres no re-dos of wedding days. We either push through, and make sure we cover the day, even if we are unwell (I know photographers who have shot weddings while having food poisoning). OR we make sure someone covers the day for us, normally with a similar style to our own. 

The most important thing is to talk to potential photographers about what the back up plan is before booking, because every one will be slightly different.
And make sure the plan is outlined in your contract with whoever you book, so you know it’s agreed on, and you won’t have to question it down the line :)

Most photographers have a big community and are always able to find replacement for the day. I've never canceled or needed replacement and I like to keep it that way, but I do have a list of 10+ other photographers who would always help out last minute ??

This is a very rare occurrence, I doubt you will find many wedding photographers who have had to cancel shooting a wedding due to illness.  I would have to very sick, or restricted due to the illness being contagious ( like covid)  to not shoot a wedding.  A wedding photographer should have this occurrence covered in their contract. My contract says I will give the bride and groom the option to get full deposit back, so they can find another photographer, or I would arrange for another photographer to cover for me.  I am connected with many other wedding photographers through my network, and I would usually know what photographer would suit the bride and groom's requirements. Ie a style similar to mine.    Additionally  - editing is a huge part of the eventual outcome of the images, and I would most certainly take on the role of editing the images from the wedding to be sure the client receives as close to my style as possible. 

Check the contract before you engage your dream photographer about things like this. A replacement is usually engaged for you and usually of the same calibre as their reputation depends on it. Best wishes!

As a professional wedding photographer, it is important to always have a plan in case of unexpected events such as falling sick on the wedding day. If I am unable to attend the wedding, I will immediately contact another photographer with a similar level of experience and style to take my place. Having a good network of professional photographers can help ensure that the wedding is still captured beautifully, even in the case of unexpected circumstances.

Part of being a successful photographer is having good networks. I personally have never had to forfeit a wedding due to being unwell or any other reason. But we are all human. Your photographer should be able to have good people around them in a similar style and price point they could call on in the case of an emergency or being unwell. Your photographer should be doing everything they can to find a replacement for you. 

I never missed a wedding for any reason until I lost my dad from covid in 2021 just couple of hours before I started shooting a wedding. 

I immediately contacted one of my photographer friends who I trust completely with a similar style and skill level and was ready to fill in. 

I've been shooting weddings since 2015 and build a reliable network of professionals in the industry. So put your mind easy you're covered!     

If there's an extreme situation that is totally out of our control (heaven forbid), any monies paid will be fully refunded.