How to let our photographer know we no longer need her services????

Just say that you've decided to contract with someone else. I'm sure she'll ask why and you can be honest if you want. There's a tactful way to say that she didn't meet your expectations.

"We feel that your style of photography is not exactly what we were looking for and we decided to go with someone else who better matches our expectations."

^ @Janeen that is great advice!

I agree, that's worded very well. That's unfortunate that your engagement pictures didn't turn out well.

Listen to Janeen

Always listen to Janeen

Janeen has the perfect answer. For future reference, no photographer worth their salt would only take a $100.00 retainer. I hope you choose wisely with the next one, best of luck

Check your contract and see what you need to do, more than likely you will want/need to cancel in writing. And you may be obligated to pay more money per the contract as well.

@Janeen is on point as per usual.

I did the same thing with our first photographer, also only took $100. i decided i wasn't impressed with the work i was seeing and pretty much emailed her exactly word for word what Janeen wrote.

Agree with @Janeen wording!

I would cancel via phone but also send a letter as a follow up and keep a copy of the letter as well in case anything were to happen. If you're okay with losing the $100.

If you want the $100 back, read your contract and then included that in your letter:

"Per the contract, page 2 section 3, we receive our deposit back if we cancel more than 30 days prior to wedding. As of the date on this letter, we are 100 days out. Please remit our deposit back to: Jane Smith, 1000 ABC Pkwy. Thank you for your time and best of luck with your business!"