How To Choose the perfect
wedding photographer/vendor

September 30, 2024

Your wedding will be one of the most important days of your life! And finding the right vendors to bring your vision to life can be pretty intimidating... BUT I'm here to help!

In this blog, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide on how to find the wedding photographer that fits your style, budget, and personality. From understanding photography styles to knowing what questions to ask during consultations, I’ve got you covered. Whether you're planning a big celebration or an intimate event, these tips will help you find a photographer or vendor who can fit perfectly into your story.

1. Determine Your Photography Style
Before you start reaching out to photographers, it's important to know the kind of photography style you like most. Do you prefer candid, photojournalistic shots or more traditional, posed images? Maybe you're into light and airy photos, or perhaps moody and dramatic styles appeal to you more. Here are a few popular photography styles to consider:

Traditional: Classic and posed shots, focusing on key moments.
Photojournalistic: Candid shots that tell the story as it unfolds.
Fine Art: Artistic and creative shots, often using unique angles or lighting.
Editorial: Stylized images with a magazine-like feel, usually highly posed.
Once you know your preferred style, it will narrow down your search for the perfect photographer.

2. Set a Budget
Wedding photography is like jewelry, it's worth whatever you think it's worth! It can range from affordable to luxury pricing, so it's important to set a budget early on. Make sure to include any additional services you may want, such as engagement sessions, extra hours on the day of the wedding, or printed albums. Remember, photography is one of the few investments from your wedding that will last a lifetime, so while it's good to have a budget, don’t let price be the only deciding factor.

3. Research and Shortlist Photographers
Start by looking online at wedding blogs, social media, and websites like Instagram and Pinterest for local photographers. When you find a photographer who fits your style, check out their website or portfolio to see more of their work. Here are key things to look for:

Consistency: Does their portfolio reflect the style you like? Is the quality consistent across different weddings?
Experience: How long have they been photographing weddings? Experienced photographers are more likely to handle unpredictable situations with ease.
Reviews: Read reviews from other couples. Pay attention to feedback about the photographer’s professionalism, personality, and how they handled the wedding day.

4. Meet (or Video Call) with Photographers
Once you have a shortlist, schedule consultations. This is your chance to see if you "click" with them—not just as a professional, but also as someone who will spend one of the most important days of your life with you. Here are a few key questions to ask during your meeting:

What is your backup plan in case of emergencies? – Knowing their contingency plan for equipment failure or illness can ease your mind.
How many weddings have you photographed? – Their experience will show through their answers and portfolio.
Do you have experience shooting at my venue? – Familiarity with the location can be a plus, but adaptability is even more important.

5. Review Full Wedding Albums
A photographer’s Instagram will show the best highlights, but a full wedding album will give you a clearer picture of their work. Ask to see a complete gallery of a recent wedding so you can evaluate how well they capture all aspects of the day— from getting ready shots to the reception party.

6. Understand Their Packages and Contracts
Photographers offer different packages depending on the coverage and services you want. Here’s what to consider when comparing packages:

Number of Hours: Will they cover your entire wedding, from getting ready to the final dance? Consider how much coverage you'll need.
Second Shooter: Some packages include a second photographer. This is great for getting different angles and more candid moments.
Editing Time: Ask how long it will take to receive your final photos and whether editing is included.
Albums/Prints: Some photographers offer packages that include physical albums or prints, while others provide only digital files.
Make sure to go through the contract carefully and ask about their cancellation and refund policy.

7. Trust Your Gut
At the end of the day, your wedding photographer will be a huge part of your special day. Trust your instincts about who will be a good fit, both professionally and personally. You want someone who not only takes beautiful photos but also makes you feel comfortable and at ease throughout the day.

8. Book Early
The best photographers often get booked months, if not years, in advance. Once you’ve found someone who ticks all the boxes, don’t wait too long to secure them for your date. Be sure to lock in your photographer early to avoid disappointment.

Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your wedding. By understanding your style, setting a budget, doing thorough research, and trusting your instincts, you can find someone who will capture the beauty and joy of your day in a way that reflects your personality and love story.