How to Choose a Wedding Photographer: 5 Essential Tips Every Couple Should Know

Choosing the right photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your wedding day. It’s 2025, and couples are no longer just looking for “nice photos.” They want someone who can capture their story, help guide them through the day, and create an experience that feels effortless and unforgettable.

With so many people calling themselves photographers, knowing how to choose a wedding photographer can feel overwhelming. But with a little clarity — and the right questions — finding a true professional becomes so much easier.

Here are five essential wedding photographer tips for couples before you book.

ONE — LOOK FOR A PHOTOGRAPHER WHOSE STYLE MATCHES YOUR VISION

Your wedding photos should feel like you. Before reaching out to anyone, spend time narrowing down what style speaks to you most:

• Candid/documentary – honest storytelling, real emotions

• Timeless/true-to-color – clean, classic, and elegant

• Moody/artistic – deeper tones, creative composition

• Cinematic/editorial – dramatic lighting, fashion-inspired posing

Experience matters just as much as style. A photographer who has photographed many weddings knows how to handle:

• unpredictable weather

• outdoor/indoor lighting shifts

• fast-moving timelines

• family dynamics

• last-minute changes

A seasoned pro will keep you calm, on schedule, and beautifully photographed from start to finish.

TWO — SCHEDULE A CALL FIRST — CHEMISTRY IS EVERYTHING

You’ll spend more time with your photographer on your wedding day than with almost anyone else. If you don’t connect with them, it will show in your photos.

Before booking, schedule a quick call or FaceTime to chat about:

• your story

• your wedding vibe

• what you want your images to feel like

• how involved you want your photographer to be on the wedding day

This simple step helps you instantly gauge if you “click.” Feeling comfortable with your photographer is one of the biggest factors in getting natural, joyful photos.

THREE — KNOW EXACTLY WHAT'S INCLUDED IN YOUR PACKAGE

Before signing a contract, make sure you understand what you’re getting. A transparent photographer will walk you through packages, timelines, and deliverables so there are no surprises.

Here are the top questions to ask your wedding photographer:

• What’s included in your packages, and are there any additional fees?

• How many hours of coverage do we receive?

• When will we get our photos, and how are they delivered?

• Do you help with creating a wedding day timeline?

• Can we add on an engagement session or an album?

Clear communication up front = zero stress later.

FOUR — ASK TO SEE A FULL WEDDING GALLERY

Highlight reels are curated to perfection — and while they’re beautiful, they don’t show the full picture.

Requesting a full wedding gallery allows you to see:

• how your photographer handles harsh midday sun

• reception lighting

• candid moments

• family portraits

• consistency from start to finish

You’re not just investing in a few great images — you’re investing in a full day of storytelling, and quality should be strong throughout the entire gallery.

FIVE — READ REVIEWS & TESTIMONIALS FROM REAL COUPLES

Reviews offer invaluable insight into how a photographer:

• communicates

• solves unexpected challenges

• handles timelines

• makes couples feel

• delivers on promises

Look for repeated praise about professionalism, calm energy, and the ability to capture emotional, meaningful moments. These details often tell you more than the photos themselves.

Planning an Elopement or Destination Wedding? Let’s Dream Big Together.

If you’re searching for a photographer who values connection, storytelling, and creating a stress-free experience — or if you simply have questions about the process — I’d love to chat. You can reach out anytime through my inquiry page.

And if you’re dreaming of an epic destination or an intimate elopement, I’m offering a special travel discount for the locations on my 2026–2027 wishlist. Photographing couples in new, breathtaking places is one of my greatest joys.

My Current Photography Travel Wish List

If you're getting married, eloping, or planning a session in any of the locations below, reach out — you’ll receive special pricing:

• Santorini, Greece

• Lake Como, Italy

• Iceland

• New Zealand

• Morocco

• The Dolomites, Italy

• Banff National Park

• Amangiri, Utah

• Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah

• Portland, Oregon

• Moab, Utah

• Zion National Park

• Badlands National Park

• Olympic National Park

• Giraffe Manor, Kenya

• The Sea Ranch Lodge, California