How to Find the Best Wedding Photographer!

by Anna Novak | Oct 31, 2024 | Bridal

Are you trying to find the best possible photographer for your wedding day? Do you want to find someone you and your partner are really excited to work with? Most importantly, do you need someone who is also within your budget?

Very few people are truly comfortable being photographed or followed around by a camera all day. The thought of posing makes many couples feel self-conscious and awkward. Hiring a wedding photographer can be difficult because you also need to find a professional you’re comfortable interacting with for many hours. Therefore, we suggest you begin the process by asking your recently married friends and family who they recommend. Word of mouth referrals are often very reliable and a great starting point for wedding vendors.

Additionally, we have composed a list of what we consider the seven important factors to look for in a photographer:

1 • Style

There are a variety of styles that photographers use including: light and airy, dark and moody, fine art, traditional, photojournalistic and black and white. Each style has a specific look that sets it apart. You should really choose your style before reaching out to potential photographers. Stalk the websites and social media accounts of photographers you’re considering. During your in-person interview, ask to view their printed portfolio, too. Search for examples of their work that you’d like to mimic. Inquire about their process and if your venue, colors and season are ideal for creating your desired style.

2 • Chemistry

Trust your instincts to determine if you and your partner truly have a genuine chemistry with the potential photographer. An amazing portfolio that captures the style you’re going for, is important, but how the pro makes you feel is the priority. Do you feel relaxed, confident and comfortable around this person? Don’t just select a photographer based on their work or pricing. Make sure you feel certain that your personalities work well together.

3 • Flexible Package Options

Look for a wedding photographer with pricing flexibility. This flexibility can save you money by focusing on your specific needs and wants based on your current budget. You may not be into traditional printed albums and portraits, so ask if you can eliminate that portion of their package. Request a custom photo package that includes a predetermined number of hours as well as the complete edited digital files. Once you have the files, you can print what you like when you can afford it.

4 • Do they Photograph Solo?

Inquire with your photographer if they work solo or as a team. Having multiple team members taking pictures at your wedding provides more images from various angles. However, there is typically an additional cost for extra photographers and equipment, plus you’ll likely have to cover their food and drinks. Most professionals are highly capable of working solo; therefore, don’t hesitate to book a pro because they work alone. Hire the pro you are confident will take the best photographs.

5 • Engagement Session

Search for a photographer that includes an engagement session in your package. Spending time together with the pro taking engagement photos will help you get comfortable before the big day. It’s also a great opportunity to take some informal pictures with your partner to send out as your Save the Date cards.

6 • Ask Many Questions

Your photographer wants to make you happy. So, eliminate surprises and ask as many questions as needed before signing the contract. Confirm that they are fully insured for both general liability and equipment. Discuss coverage hours, pricing of additional prints, backup plans in case of disasters, delivery time, any guarantees offered, and more. An experienced photographer will not hesitate to answer any of your questions and will put you at ease.

7 • Read their Online Reviews

Peruse the online reviews to see what past clients say about the quality, style and problem resolution of the photographers you are considering. You will learn a great deal about the relationships they have built and how they work. The Knot, WeddingWire and Google are the best sites to find accurate reviews of your potential pro. Ask the photographer to show you the work they did for several of the past couples who reviewed them.

Lastly, ask the photographer you ultimately hire if they have any recommendations to prep for your wedding day. Practice poses that will make you look natural and at ease in photographs. Think about improving your posture and standing up straight. If you are wearing heels, make sure you find truly comfortable shoes. Finally, break the shoes in by wearing them around the house for many weeks before your big day! Preparation will give you the confidence to project your glowing inner-radiance and truly look gorgeous in pictures!