The hunt for the perfect wedding photographer is a bit like dating—there’s chemistry, intuition, and the ever-important question: do they get your vibe? After all, these are the photos you'll flip through on anniversaries, frame in your home, show your kids, and send to everyone who couldn’t make it to the big day. So, how do you find the one who will capture the magic exactly as you imagine? In this blog, we tell you the 7 steps that will help you pick a photographer who feels like the one for you!
Before you even start browsing portfolios, take a moment to reflect on the photography style that speaks to you. Are you more drawn to timeless and traditional shots, or do candid, documentary-style photos set your heart racing? Maybe you love moody, artistic images that look like they belong in a magazine. Identifying your aesthetic is crucial - it will help you narrow down your choices and find a photographer whose style aligns perfectly with your vision.
Pro Tip: Create a Pinterest board or a mood board that reflects your wedding day vibe. Use this as a reference point when reviewing photographers’ work.
Photography is an investment. While setting your wedding budget, decide how much you're willing to allocate for this service. Prices can range widely depending on the photographer’s experience, location, and package inclusions. Don’t forget to ask about hidden costs like travel fees, extra hours, or albums. However, being too rigid could cause you to miss out on a great match, so keep a little flexibility if you come across someone you really love.
If capturing the memories is one of your top wedding-day concerns, this is one area where it is worth the splurge! Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. (Pictures or it didn’t happen!)
Instagram, Facebook, and even wedding forums are treasure troves of photographer portfolios and client reviews. Check out their recent work, read through the comments, and see how they engage with their clients. You will also see how they handle real-time updates and client interactions. Social media will give you an idea of the photographer’s style, consistency, and personality. Plus, you might find real wedding galleries that’ll help you visualize what your big day could look like through their lens.
This is the most important step! Your photographer will be with you during some of the most intimate moments of your day, from getting ready to the first dance, so it’s essential to feel comfortable around them. Schedule an in-person or virtual meeting to get a sense of their personality. Are they easy-going, approachable, and someone you can envision blending seamlessly into your day? A great photographer isn’t just about the perfect shot, they’re about creating a relaxed experience too.
Once you've narrowed it down, it’s time to get into the details. Asking the right questions will give you peace of mind and avoid any unpleasant surprises later. Here are some key questions you cannot miss:
How many weddings have you photographed?
What’s your backup plan if something happens and you can’t make it?
Do you offer customizable packages?
Can we see a full gallery of a wedding similar to ours?
How long after the wedding will we receive our photos?
Don’t be afraid to ask specific questions about their process. This is your big day, and you deserve full transparency!
A test run with your wedding photographer is essential to ensure he or she is the best fit! If you are a camera-shy person, it is even more important to see if they make you feel relaxed and if they are able to give you the right directions for your photoshoot. A test run, such as an engagement shoot, gives you a chance to see how comfortable you are with the photographer and whether they truly align with the vision you’ve set. This will also allow you to give feedback and suggestions to make them prepare better for the big day.
And remember, don’t hesitate to go back to the drawing board if things don’t feel right after the test run. Your photographer should meet your expectations and bring your vision to life. The test shoot is your opportunity to feel reassured that you’ve made the right choice ahead of the big day.
At the end of the day, you’ll probably know when you’ve found the perfect photographer. There’s a gut feeling that just clicks. But before you sign on the dotted line, make sure you’ve read through the contract thoroughly. Pay attention to the terms around delivery timelines, rights to photos, and cancellation policies. It’s not the fun part, but it’s essential to protect both you and your photographer.
Pro Tip: If anything in the contract isn’t clear, ask questions or seek clarification before signing. Both parties should feel comfortable with the terms.
Picking the perfect wedding photographer isn’t just about finding someone who takes great photos. They also need to truly understand your vision and capture the essence of your day in a way that is worth looking back to a thousand times in your old age. So, trust the process, follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to finding the photographer who feels just right for your wedding day.
