What to Look For in a Wedding Photographer

When you’re looking for a wedding photographer, it can seem like you’re trying to find “the one.” You’re searching online to learn their backstory, asking friends and family for their opinions, and swiping until you find the right fit.

As a former bride myself, I can honestly say-I get it. I went through the same struggle trying to make sure that my photographer was the right fit for me. I knew photo and video was high on the list of important things for me and as a wedding photographer I wanted to dive into some aspects of a wedding photographer that you should look for in your search-these are things I looked for and am so glad I found!

Personality

Hiring a photographer is more than finding someone who can take photos. It’s about finding the right person behind the camera.

This is the person who will be there with you planning every fine detail, checking in with you, understanding you and your significant other, and capturing your best moments.

Take a look at the wedding photographer’s “About” page on their website. Ask them questions on the phone or send them an email to get to know them before hiring them.

Your wedding photographer is going to be following you around all day, so, hire someone you like! Personality is the #1 most important trait for me because amazing images come from everyone being relaxed, happy, and in good company.

Photography experience

Finding the right wedding photographer involves asking questions and reviewing their portfolio. I recommend asking for at least 3 full photo galleries that show photos they’ve taken at all times of the day – morning, afternoon, and evening and in lighting conditions that are similar to your own wedding.

A photographer’s Instagram can be a great portfolio, however, it can be deceptive since the platform only shows the highlights so I’ll say it again-ask for full galleries and look at the overall product when deciding how you feel about someone’s work.

Looking at a photographer’s website or requesting those 3 galleries will help you see what their photography style is like so you get the full picture.

Seeing a larger range of work can help you decide what photography style you’re going for on your big day, and how you want to remember it when you’re looking back on those once-in-a-lifetime photos.

Being a fly on the wall

You’ll need someone with a vision who can be nearly invisible when they’re taking the photos. Hire someone who sees beyond good lighting and fancy equipment.

A great wedding photographer is someone who looks for emotions and moments that you didn’t even catch ’til you looked at your photo gallery later on.

Someone who can be a “fly on the wall” will let you shine, leaving room for candid shots and special moments.

The ideal photographer knows that there will be times for hanging like one of the girls, tell you how to stand and where to be and other times when the photographer needs to let the couple have their moment and not be in their personal space!

Don’t hire a wedding photographer who cares more about “the shot” than about the beauty of the moment. Sometimes the best moments are spontaneous. Should they care about the shot? YES! But not more than the real life moment that it belongs too because that’s where the true memory is. I’m all about high-quality images and videos, but hire someone who can capture stunning moments in the background without ruining your actual moment.

Find a wedding photographer who loves what they do

Your photographer should be someone who loves creating experiences for couples and has fun with it. You can tell that this person emits joy from capturing your moments, and they’re just as excited as you every step of the way.

You can see their smile behind the camera, their enthusiasm when they show you preview images from your photoshoot, and they customize the experience for you. Their passion shows in their attention to detail, and they’re immersed in the experience.

Wondering if I’d be a good fit for your wedding photography? 

It’s not uncommon for you to spot me tearing up or full-on silent crying on your wedding day. I’m also a sucker for a good father-daughter dance. I love all of it, and it’s an honor to be a part of these real moments.

I put a lot of heart and soul into every couple’s experience, so I’d love to get to know you and what you’re looking for with your wedding photography.

You can check out my galleries and learn more about my experience (and me as a person!). When you’re ready, let’s chat!