How to Choose Your Wedding Photographer: A Guide for Couples
"Almost every initial call I have with a couple starts the same way: 'We don't know what we should ask you—this is our first time!' It’s completely understandable. For most couples, planning a wedding is uncharted territory, and choosing a photographer feels like a monumental decision. After all, your wedding photos will be the lasting memories of your special day, something you’ll cherish forever.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed about where to start, don’t worry. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process and choose the perfect photographer for your wedding day."
1. Meet Them (Preferably More Than Once)
Your photographer will be with you for the majority of your wedding day, so it’s crucial to feel comfortable with them. Schedule a Zoom call, meet in person if possible, or have multiple conversations to get to know their personality and approach. A photographer who makes you feel at ease will help you look and feel your best in photos.
During these meetings, don’t hesitate to ask questions about their process, style, and experience. Their answers will give you insight into how they’ll handle your big day.
2. Don’t Limit Yourself to Venue Experience
A common misconception is that you need a photographer who has previously worked at your venue. While familiarity with a location can be helpful, a skilled photographer can adapt to any setting. Focus on their portfolio, creativity, and adaptability rather than limiting your options to those who have shot at your venue before.
3. Ask to See Full Wedding Galleries
Instagram and websites often showcase a photographer's highlight reel—just the best of the best. While those curated images are beautiful, they don’t tell the full story of a wedding day. Ask to see complete galleries or albums to understand how the photographer handles every part of a wedding, from getting-ready shots to the reception.
This will give you an idea of their consistency, attention to detail, and ability to capture both the big moments and the smaller, candid ones.
4. Look Beyond Instagram
If you discovered your photographer on Instagram, that’s a great start! But don’t stop there. Check their website to see a broader portfolio and learn more about their style and services. Websites often provide detailed information about their packages, philosophy, and approach, which can help you determine if they’re the right fit.
5. Pay Attention to Their Style
Wedding photography styles vary widely, from light and airy to dark and moody, traditional to documentary. Make sure you love the photographer’s style and that it aligns with your vision for your wedding day. Browse their portfolio to see if their editing and shooting styles consistently resonate with you. Some photographers may have multiple editing styles, but a consistent shooting style. Try to look out to see which style of both best suit you. Up close and intimate, natural colours, editorial style shoots; the list goes on and on.
6. Consider Their Personality
Your photographer will be part of intimate moments on your wedding day, like helping you with your veil or sharing a laugh with your wedding party. Their energy will influence your experience, so it’s important to choose someone whose vibe goes with yours.
7. Ask About Logistics
Discuss timelines, package details, and backup plans. Questions like these can help ensure there are no surprises:
How many hours of coverage do we need?
Do you offer engagement sessions?
What happens if you’re sick on the day of the wedding?
8. Think About Your Budget, But Don’t Let It Be the Only Factor
Wedding photography is an investment, but it’s one worth making. While it’s important to stay within your budget, remember that these photos will be your lifelong memories of the day. Prioritize value and connection over simply finding the cheapest option.
9. Trust Your Gut
Ultimately, you’ll know when you’ve found the right photographer. They’ll be someone whose work makes you excited, whose personality puts you at ease, and whose approach aligns with your vision.
Choosing a wedding photographer can feel daunting, but taking the time to research, meet, and connect with potential photographers will ensure you find the perfect fit. After all, your wedding day deserves to be captured beautifully and authentically—and the right photographer will do just that.