How to Choose your Wedding Photographer

Your wedding day is one of the most exciting and meaningful moments of your life, and you’ll want every precious detail captured to cherish for years to come. Choosing the right photographer is an important step in your wedding planning. It’s about finding someone who aligns with your vision, style, and overall vibe. After all, your wedding is a once in a lifetime celebration, and your photos will serve as timeless reminders of every special wedding moment. 

Here’s our ultimate guide to choose your wedding photographer to preserve your memories. 

 

1. Know your wedding photography vision

Before you start searching for a professional photographer, make sure you’re clear about your vision and what you hope to achieve for your wedding. Do you imagine classic, editorial-style portraits, or do you prefer a more documentary wedding photography style that captures candid moments? Are you drawn to soft, romantic tones, or do you love bold and dramatic imagery? Understanding your aesthetic preferences will help you narrow down photographers who align with your dream wedding photos.

Think about the mood you want your photos to convey. Do you want your photographer to focus on emotional storytelling, or do you prefer carefully curated shots with artistic composition? Looking at different photography styles online or in wedding magazines can help you choose your wedding photographer.

 

2. Match their style to yours

When choosing your wedding photographer, keep in mind that every photographer has a signature style, from light and airy to dark and moody, and understanding different wedding photography styles can help you make the best choice. As you browse portfolios, look for consistency in their work. Does their editing style and composition match the style you want and vision you have in mind? Finding a photographer whose expertise in lighting, composition, and storytelling aligns with your expectations will ensure your photos tell the story of your day in exactly the way that you have pictured.

Beyond the overall aesthetic, consider how a photographer captures key moments and ask to see some examples. Some photographers often focus on intimate, close-up details, while others take a more expansive approach, incorporating stunning backdrops and wider shots. Think about which approach best fits your wedding setting and personal taste.

 

3. Ensure you're on the same vibe

Beyond their talent, your photographer will be by your side for almost every part of the day, capturing intimate moments and guiding you through portraits. It’s essential that you feel comfortable with them. Schedule a consultation or an engagement session to ensure their energy, communication style, and personality align with yours. A great connection will help you feel at ease in front of the camera, resulting in naturally beautiful images that reflect your creative wedding vision.

Your photographer should also be someone you trust to guide you throughout the day. If you’re nervous about posing, find a photographer who can provide gentle direction and make the experience enjoyable. If you prefer more candid shots, look for someone skilled in capturing spontaneous moments without making you feel like you're constantly being watched.

 

4. Experience at your venue: helpful but not essential

It can be desirable to hire a photographer who has worked at your wedding venue before, as they’ll be familiar with the layout, lighting, and best spots for photos. However, it’s not a must. A good photographer can adapt to any venue, making the most of its features, and still deliver stunning results. What matters more is their ability to creatively capture your vision, no matter the setting.

 

5. Read reviews and ask for recommendations

Word of mouth recommendations from other couples, wedding planners, or venues can be incredibly valuable when you’re looking to choose a wedding photographer. Read testimonials and reviews to get insight into a photographer’s professionalism, reliability, and the overall experience they provide. A strong reputation within the wedding industry is a good indicator of quality service and can help you find lots of photographers to choose from.

It’s also helpful to ask friends who have recently got married about their experiences and what they would want to ask when choosing a photographer. They can give you an honest perspective on what it was like working with their photographer, from the booking process to how they felt on the wedding day itself.

 

6. Understand their pricing and packages

Wedding photography is an investment, and pricing can vary significantly based on experience, hours of coverage, second shooters, and additional services such as albums or videography. Make sure you fully understand their packages and what’s included, so there are no surprises later, particularly regarding the number of full galleries you will receive.

Some photographers offer flexible packages, while others have set collections. Be sure to have questions to ask about add-ons, such as extra hours, engagement sessions, or high-resolution digital files. Consider what elements are most important to you, whether it’s full-day coverage, or a second photographer for different angles.

 

7. Meet in person or schedule a video call

Once you’ve shortlisted a few photographers, take the time to meet them in person or schedule a video call. Seeing how they communicate and present themselves can give you confidence in your choice. This is also a great opportunity to ask about their approach to weddings, how they handle different lighting conditions, their experience at your venue, and how they manage group portraits and candid moments.

Use this time to discuss any specific requests you might have. If there are must-have shots or unique traditions in your wedding, a great photographer will be eager to listen and incorporate your ideas into their work.

 

8. Trust your instincts

Once you've done your research and met with potential photographers, trust your instincts. If you feel a strong connection with a photographer and their work moves you, there’s a good chance that they’re the perfect fit for your wedding day. Your wedding images will be a treasured keepsake for years to come, so choosing someone who makes you feel confident and comfortable is key.

 

Making the right choice for your memories

Choosing your wedding photographer is an investment in your memories, so make sure you’re selecting someone who fits within your budget. With a clear vision, a perfect style match, and a personal connection, you’ll ensure your wedding day is captured in the most meaningful way possible. Taking the time to find the right person will not only result in stunning photographs but also enhance your overall wedding day experience, especially with so many wedding photographers available to choose from.

Looking for for more wedding planning tip? Check out our blog post to choose the perfect wedding venue.

 

Images featured by LIT Photography and Megan Donati Photography