How to Choose a Wedding Photographer

While there’s no magic formula for how to choose a wedding photographer, finding the perfect match can feel like a big sigh of relief. It makes the rest of wedding planning a whole lot more enjoyable! It’s more than just hiring someone to take photos—it’s about connecting with someone who understands your vision and knows exactly how to translate those one-of-a-kind moments into images you’ll treasure forever.

But let’s be honest, searching for a photographer is a bit like online dating. You start with a lot of swiping and snooping, looking for connections or reflections of what you value most. Maybe you even switch over to Instagram for a glimpse into their real life or LinkedIn for more about what they do. Little by little, you become more convinced that they could be your person, eventually taking the leap and reaching out. Choosing a photographer should feel the same way.

So, if you’re wondering how to choose a wedding photographer, let’s start here!

 

How to Choose a Wedding Photographer Intentionally in Six Steps

 

ONE: Start hunting down your wedding photo inspo.

Whether you know exactly what you want or have no idea at all, it all starts with deciding what’s most important to you. What are your plans for the day? What details do you care about most? Do you have a mind-blowing train on your dress that you want captured? Are you getting married somewhere epic and want couples portraits in nature? Imagine the images you want to have in your wedding gallery, then go out and gather inspiration for your own.

A simple search on Google, Pinterest, or Instagram is a great place to start. You’ll likely stumble upon some incredible work that resonates with you. Make sure to save those examples—they’ll help guide your decision later on.

TWO: Binge some portfolios.

While you collect your wedding photo inspiration, you’ll undoubtedly come across a few photographers whose work catches your eye. Now it’s time to dig into their portfolios and find a style that speaks to you—whether it’s candid, documentary, traditional, moody, artistic, or a blend of styles.

But don’t just browse through thumbnails for a quick vibe check. Dive into individual galleries and see if their style matches your vision as a whole. Here are some things to look for, depending on what you want to be included in your day:

• Getting Ready Photos: For a peek into what your partner was experiencing before seeing you!
• Details: Think paper products, decor, reception setup, food, wedding attire—all of it!
• Candids: Capture the happy tears, bear hugs, and little moments you might miss in the craziness of the day.
• Shot List Images: These are the ones of you and your partner, the wedding party, and family—the photos that will hang above the fireplace and be passed down for generations.
• Variety: Look for wide-angle shots of the venue and up-close images of your floral arrangements lining the aisle. You can (and should) have both.

For example, I’d describe my style as both candid and timeless, blending a photojournalistic approach to capturing fleeting moments with a well-planned shot list of classic portraits and detail photos. You can explore my style further in my portfolio right here!

THREE: Personality matters—do a vibe check.

Your photographer will be spending the entire day with you and your guests, plus working alongside your team of A-grade vendors. They need to match your energy, understand your vision, and feel like they actually belong there on your big day.

Here are some ways to get a better feel for who your photographer is as a person:

• Read Their Content: Check out their website, blogs, and Instagram posts. Is it a book you can’t put down, or does it leave you feeling uninspired?
• Look Beyond the Photos: How do they describe their approach to a wedding day? Do they share their processes and communication styles? Do they offer helpful resources? These could be good indicators of whether they’re the type of person you’re looking for.
• Ask to Get on a Call or Meet IRL: The absolute best way to test your compatibility is through direct interaction.

FOUR: Know your budget (but keep quality in mind).

How much will a wedding photographer cost? I won’t lie — high-quality photography isn’t cheap. 

Of course, you have to work within a realistic budget but understand it is an investment. And if one of your top priorities is killer photos that capture the celebration of your day, then skimping on photography isn’t something you want to do. 

It takes more than a nice camera and a good eye to get those photos. When you’re investing in a high-end photographer, you’re reaping the benefits of working with someone who has years of experience. You’re getting an expert in planning timelines, details, locations, and lighting. Someone who knows how to collaborate with other vendors. A wedding veteran who can anticipate moments before they happen. A confidant who makes sure you feel supported & heard every step of the way. A seasoned pro who knows exactly how to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera. 

Those dreamy photos you’ve been waiting for? They’re a result of all of the work put in way before the photo is snapped and all of the post-production magic that happens after, too. 

Some photographers list out all of the pricing details on their websites and some offer starting pricing and work with you to create a custom package! Interested in my pricing? Shoot me an email and I’ll send over my investment guide!

FIVE: Creep on reviews & look for referrals.

As you know by now, there’s plenty more to consider than just editing style. Take a deep dive into their reviews to get a better understanding of what it’s like to work with them, both as a person and as a wedding professional.

Here’s where to look:

• Vendor or Venue Referrals: Many wedding pros have preferred vendor lists of the people they love working with or highly recommend.
• Google Reviews: Pop their name into good ol’ Google and see what others are saying.
• Their Website: Most experienced photographers will have plenty of testimonials on their website. Even better if they have reviews linked to certain galleries or blog posts from couples.
• Tagged Photos on Instagram: This lets you see posts by other vendors, couples, and more from a slightly more unfiltered perspective.

SIX: Trust your gut.

Don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you want. Be open about your vision and share any concerns you have. If you don’t know what you’re doing, that’s okay. The right photographer will take the time to give you answers and walk you through it all. (And if not, it’s a big RED flag in my professional opinion!)

Here are some questions to ask a wedding photographer:

• Can we see a full gallery from a recent wedding?
• What do you help with throughout the planning process?
• How long have you been doing this?
• Do you have experience with our venue or type of ceremony?
• What happens after our wedding? What’s the timeline for photo delivery?

Even though there’s a lot to consider, choosing your wedding photographer can be one heck of a good time!

 

Even while there’s a lot to consider, choosing your photographer can be one heck of a good time!

After all, we know weddings better than anyone! Personally, I’m always happy to answer questions or give ideas to help with the planning process, as well as guides and referrals to help my clients out. Some photographers book a year or two in advance, so it’s always a good idea to get the conversation started earlier rather than later. 

Planning a wedding is as personal as it gets, especially when you’re focused on creating an intentional wedding day. You’ve carefully chosen every detail, from the venue to the vows, to celebrate your love in the most meaningful way possible. So, when it comes to how to choose a wedding photographer, it’s essential to find someone who not only captures stunning images but also understands and resonates with your vision.

Think I might be that person for you? Hot damn! I’m flattered and so SO excited! Reach out now and let’s get this party started.