Choosing a wedding photographer is one of the first steps in wedding planning. After you secure your date with a venue, photography, catering, and entertainment are typically the next to cross off your to-do list.

Why is choosing a wedding photographer so important?

As a wedding photographer, I am typically with my couples for about eight hours on the wedding day. EIGHT HOURS! Could you imagine spending eight hours with someone you can’t stand? That’s why it is so important to really take the time to choose the right wedding photographer for you.

Where do I start?

Budget

First, you need to know your budget. Most well seasoned professional wedding photographers will cost between $3000-$5000. If that’s over your budget, DO NOT WORRY! There is a photographer for everyone. And when it comes down to it, even a newer photographer is better than no photographer.

Style

Now is the time for your Pinterest board to shine! Head on over to the beloved place to dream and search “Wedding Photography”. Start pinning the images that you are drawn to. After you’ve got a good amount, take a look. Are the images light and airy? Dark and moody? Vibrant and full of color? Are they romantic? Fun? Dramatic?

Use this evaluation to determine what style of wedding photography you like best! For example, my work is light and airy with dramatic night shots. My couples love to laugh and have fun, but also cherish the sweet in-between moments.

Reviews

Once you know WHAT you’re looking for, you can start to compile a list of photographers that you LOVE. Start your search on social media, google, and wedding sites. Find photographers whose images speak to you and align with what your dream Pinterest board looked like.

Once you’ve got a good list of photographers that 1. fit your budget, and 2. have the style you like, it’s time to research reviews. Most reputable companies will have PLENTY of reviews available on Google, The Knot, and Facebook. You can also ask for experiences in your local wedding Facebook groups!

Personality

Finally, it’s time to reach out to your list of photographers and see which you mesh with best. Remember when I said you’ll be spending EIGHT hours with this person?! It’s so important that you get a feel for the type of energy they will bring to your wedding day.

Time to Pick!

Finally, know it’s okay to meet with several different photographers before choosing who the perfect fit for you is. Sometimes you’ll fall in love with someone that’s a little out of budget and have to move some things around. Sometimes you think you found the one, then you stumble across someone on Insta that’s AMAZING! It’s okay to take your time and be picky. Your wedding photos are an heirloom that will last lifetimes!

Choosing a wedding photographer can be a daunting process, but it can also be a TON of fun! Meeting new clients is always such a joy for me and I love hearing each and every love story. If you have any questions about choosing a wedding photographer or would like a list of photographers that I recommend (aside from myself), shoot me a message, I’m happy to help!