Question about photographer- Repost from BHB

One of the photographers I have seen (and the one that I like the most) requires all but $400 dollars a week before the wedding. This means that I give them pretty much all the money I am paying them before a picture (or video) is even shot.
I saw another photog. today that has the same payment plan. Is this a regular practice in the photography industry, or is it asking way too much? PLEASE give me your experiences/opinions because my parents think its crazy to give them so much money befoe the wedding, but its a photog. that many girls on here have used and raved about and I really like them a lot. The only thing holding me back from booking them is this issue of money!
TIA

Re: Question about photographer- Repost from BHB

I saw a few photographers.

#1: 1/3 to book, 1/3 a month before, 1/3 p/u proofs...

#2: 10% dep., 20% 1 yr prior, 40% 1 week prior, 10% p/u proofs, 1/2 balance when placing order, balance at pickup...

#3: 30% to book, 20% 2 months prior, 40% day of, 10% p/u proofs...

#4: 1/3 deposit, all but $200 10 days prior, $200 p/u proofs.

I went with #4. They were my favorite and they have a good reputation. FM me if you want more details.