How to nail down what you’re looking for in a wedding photographer, then how to find the perfect one!

Photography style vs. editing style

You’re probably familiar with the concept of what a photographer’s editing style is – i.e. warm tones, moody, light&airy, true-to-color. And you probably have an idea of what you like, too – that’s a great start!

But something arguably just as important as a photographer’s editing style is their photography / shooting style. This is where those buzz words like “documentary” and “editorial” come into play. Are you looking for completely candid, authentic photos of you and your people from a fly on the wall, or lots of direction in terms of where & when you need to be moving through each part of the day, with lots of support with posing? There is absolutely nothing wrong with either of these styles, but each photographer will specialize in one more than the other, and it’s important to choose someone whose approach to a wedding day aligns with yours.

For example, I lean a bit more toward a documentary approach – I’m going to take a step back and let you experience this day with your people, capturing it almost like what a wedding guest in the crowd would see. Heavy emphasis on candids and reactions, and when it comes to your couples photos, lots of fun prompts to keep you moving & laughing & lovin’ on each other – no stiff posing!

The Overall Experience

Your photographer is obviously going to provide you with an amazing photo gallery. But there are TONS of different ways the experience as a whole can look. If you have a planner and/or coordinator, you’re probably leaning on them a LOT during this process, and therefore just telling your photographer when to show up and what to capture.

On the other hand, for example, I shoot a lot of smaller and more DIY-style weddings where I am often the main day-of schedule support to my couples, helping them plan and then bringing them where they need to be throughout the day. The experience my couples receive from me surpasses just a photo gallery – we meet and chat a lot to align our visions for the day, and my questionnaire includes questions like what you’re each looking forward to most on the day of, so I can pay it some extra attention.

In the case of an elopement, you’re probably leaning a lot on your photographer to help you pick a location, get a permit, and navigate the process of it all.

Cost

Depending on their years of experience, location, and the things we chatted about above, the price for a full day wedding photographer can range from $1,000 to upwards of $10k! If you’re on a strict budget, you can definitely find a newer photographer looking to gain experience. On the flip side, there are amazing photographers out there who charge a bit more for their unique eye and experience they deliver, and then of course, luxury photographers who are in that higher price range.

Inclusivity & Safety

Are you a member of the queer community, looking for a photographer who will affirm your love? Are you a BIPOC couple wanting a photographer who you feel confident will edit your skin tones accurately? Or perhaps you’re plus-sized or disabled and want to make sure your photographer knows how to pose & prompt for your body type in a way that feels comfortable and affirming.

You’ll want to look thoroughly at each potential photographer’s website for couples that look like YOU, and again, ask to see full galleries to make sure their work feels right for you and your partner. Watch out for inclusive language on their website, social media, and in all of your email correspondence.

Please, please, please do your research to avoid ending up with wedding vendors who are going to tiptoe around what makes you you.

So? What does it all mean?

Once you break down all of these aspects of wedding photography, you’ll have some keywords to search for. Do a Google search, browse Instagram, or hop in your local wedding planning Facebook group for vendor recommendations from real newlyweds. Chat with different photographers who fit your criteria and make sure the vibes are good (yes, their personality and getting along well is HUGE – you’re going to spend the entire day with this person!)

At the end of your wedding or elopement, you’ll remember this momentous day with your favorite people. You’ll remember the beautiful ceremony, delicious dinner, and your impeccable job planning all the details and decorations. But what you’ll have left from the day forever, are the photos of it all. It is so, so important to pick the right photographer for you!

If you’re here because you resonate with my work, I’d love to chat with ya! You can inquire about your date here.