Choosing a (Great) Wedding Photographer
A bad photographer will ruin pretty much everything—the day, the photos (if you even get any back), all the memories connected to the photos, the vibes... very not cool.
Don’t pick this option.
A good photographer will do their job well and deliver photos that you’re excited to show all your friends and family. Decent. I like it.
A valid option.
Now... a great photographer will be invaluable on your wedding day. They will know when to disappear for a few minutes to give you space and when to show up with helpful advice. They’re not just a photographer but also a veil fixer, idea bouncer, and message deliverer.
They go above and beyond in so many ways. And the photos you get back? Hawt dang, gurl... they’re like a time machine, transporting you right back to those deeply emotional, beautiful moments, making you feel like you’re living it all over again.
But how in the world do you know you’re ending up with a genuine gem of a photographer and not a worthless old rock?
Here are some things to look for when you’re deciding who gets the responsibility of capturing all your wedding day memories:
They Are Professional in Their Conduct
This doesn’t mean they’re stiff or boring, just that they take their job seriously.
They know what they’re talking about, are able to answer all your questions, and treat their clients with respect and kindness—not as just another booking to make money on.
Their website should be clear and concise, they should respond within a reasonable amount of time to your messages and inquiries, and they should have no hesitation about setting up a time to meet you for a Q&A session, either in person or online.
They Have a Proven Track Record
Online reviews are your best friend here. (Outside of personal referrals) Google and Yelp are super helpful because those reviews are hard to buy or fake.
You should also ask to see a full wedding gallery.
Why? Because anyone can take a hundred photos and then just show you one or two good ones in a portfolio.
You’re looking for someone who can consistently deliver high-quality photos throughout the entire day, even with rapidly changing environments and situations.
Key moments should never be missing.
You’ll ‘Click’ with Them
I often tell prospective clients they’ll spend more time with their photographer on their wedding day than with their spouse—so you better like them!
Having a consultation (aka an awkward first date) with photographers before paying a deposit will help you get a feel for them.
- Are they easy to talk to?
- Are they good at communicating?
- Do they make you feel confident and understood?
- Are they the kind of person you’d want to hang out with for an entire day?
Final Thoughts
Choosing a great photographer isn’t just about their technical skills or pricing; it’s about finding someone you trust to capture the most important moments of your life.
So take your time, do your research, and make sure you’re hiring someone who’s the perfect fit for you and your day. You deserve nothing less!
May the odds be ever in your favour,
All my best wedding photography advice in one place!
Get my guide:
"A Photographers Guide To Actually Enjoying Your Wedding Day Photos"
