In the ever evolving world of weddings, one thing remains timeless: photography. Let’s dive into why wedding photography is so important, how to choose a photographer who fits your style and personality, and how to ensure you’re set up for a smooth, memorable photo experience. Let’s make sure your big day is captured in a way you’ll cherish forever!
Here’s the thing, the wedding world is only getting bigger and better. With ever-changing trends that pop up on a weekly even daily basis, it can be really tricky, if not stressful to plan your wedding. There’s a few things in wedding planning that never change, that are, simply put, “timeless”. One of the handful of things in the wedding industry that is in fact timeless and truly makes time stand still, is photography. The trends will come and go, but photos of your loved ones, the little in-between moments, the emotions and so much more can be preserved forever. Photography plays a pivotal role in preserving memories of once-in-a-lifetime events because it captures fleeting moments, allowing us to revisit and relive them long after those moments have passed.
So why is wedding photography so important? Well, once in a lifetime events, like weddings or milestones, are often fast-moving and filled with emotion. A photograph captures these moments instantly, freezing them for posterity. Allowing us to relive the feelings, expressions, and atmosphere of the event even years later, keeping those memories vivid is truly the reason you choose a photographer in the first place. Photos provide a physical or digital reminder of a specific moment. They are moments that you can hold, display, or share with others, making the memory feel more concrete and lasting. Photographs do more than just capture faces and people—they document the environment, the mood, and the small details that often go unnoticed in the rush of the moment. The venue, décor, clothing, and even facial expressions all contribute to the overall memory of an event. After all of the time, effort and planning you’ve done to create the most beautiful day, why wouldn’t you want these moments captured?
How many times have you looked at your parents or grandparents photographs from their wedding or their lives? Personally, it was a frequent hobby of mine growing up. I loved flipping through the pages of the photo albums my mom created from the beginning of her and my dad’s story until today. The blue photo albums all lined up on their mantle in an order that told their story in the most beautiful and perfect way. Long story short, photos aren’t just images on paper, but heirlooms passed down through generations.
Now that I’ve stressed the importance of photography I’m going to tell you how to choose the right photographer for you. Because just like trying on shoes, you have to find the perfect fit! Of course you should love their style and the vibes that the photographer gives off, but it’s also super important that you like the photographer you’re choosing. Wedding and engagement photos are vulnerable moments that you’re letting someone else into. You should not only feel excited to have this third wheel with you, but most importantly you should feel comfortable! Finding a photographer who vibes with you and makes you feel confident and comfortable while also having fun is just as important as the finished product, which is amazing photos. Personally, my top priority is to always make sure my couples are comfortable and also having a good time. From the first time you find your photographer to the moment you receive your photos is an experience, so make sure you’re picking someone to make it a great one.
If you keep reading (and I sure hope you do!) I’ll let you in on some valuable tips and insights to not only choosing the perfect photographer for you, but how to prepare for not only your upcoming engagement session, but your wedding too.
First things first, it’s a great idea to get some ideas together of how you want your session to feel. That’s right, feel, not look! I say this because it’s an emotional experience. Your engagement photos and your wedding photos should feel like you and tell your story. There is so much meaning behind every photo that is taken, so make sure you’re creating photos that will forever be meaningful to you. Photos that you, your family and your friends will look back on and feel your energy!
Choosing the right photographer for your style and personality is crucial for ensuring that your photos turn out the way you envision them. Whether you’re booking for a wedding, a portrait session, or an event, the photographer you choose should not only be skilled in their craft, but also someone whose style resonates with you. Before you start searching for a photographer, it’s important to have a clear idea of what you’re looking for. Here’s some things to consider:
- Are you going for romantic, whimsical, dramatic, or something more modern? Are you playful? Coffee lovers? Beach bums?
- What kind of vibe do I want in my photos? Do you prefer candid, journalistic shots, or do you like more posed, editorial-style photos?
- What is my color palette? Are you drawn to light, airy, and soft tones, or do you prefer bold, contrast-heavy images?
Once you’ve narrowed the vibes down, you can start to visualize your photo vision to begin coordinating things like outfits, location, season, etc.! With all of these little details planned out, the bigger picture starts to come together. That bigger picture will tell the unique story of your relationship and we’ll be able to not only capture it, but show it through your photos. It’s quite fun to think about, isn’t it?!
Choosing a photography style that resonates with you as a couple is an important step in capturing your unique love story. Start by discussing what feels most authentic to you—whether it’s the timeless elegance of classic portraits, the raw emotion in documentary-style shots, or the vibrant energy of a more editorial approach. Browse through different photographers’ portfolios and pay attention to what draws you in—whether it’s natural light, candid moments, or artistic compositions. The key is to select a style that reflects not only your personalities but also the kind of memories you want to cherish for years to come.
Once you have a sense of your style, start researching photographers who specialize in that area. Here’s how to go about it:
- Use Social Media to your advantage: Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook are great platforms for finding photographers whose work you like. Search using hashtags related to your location and the type of shoot you’re planning.
- Check Portfolios and websites: A photographer’s portfolio should reflect their best work and offer a clear representation of their style. Look for consistency across their photos!
- Read Reviews: Client reviews can give you insight into the photographer’s professionalism, attitude, and work ethic. Plus, it’s always nice to hear other people’s experience to resonate with your own!
When choosing a photographer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure they’re the perfect fit for your needs. Start by inquiring about their photography style and asking to see full galleries from recent weddings or sessions to get a sense of their work. Ask about their experience shooting your type of event or location and how they handle different lighting or weather conditions. Discuss logistics—such as how many hours of coverage they offer, if they provide an assistant, and how long it takes to receive your photos. Don’t forget to ask about pricing, payment plans, and cancellation policies. Lastly, ensure their personality meshes well with yours to guarantee a smooth and enjoyable experience on your big day.
The chemistry between you and your photographer can make all the difference in the final images. When you feel comfortable and at ease with your photographer, it’s easier to relax, be yourselves, and let your authentic personalities shine through. A photographer who understands your vibe and communicates well with you can help you feel confident, bringing out the most natural and candid moments in your photos. A good connection also makes posing feel effortless, and the experience itself becomes enjoyable, allowing you to truly enjoy the process and get photos that reflect your unique dynamic as a couple.
Now that you’ve connected with a photographer, it’s a good idea to schedule an engagement session with them! It gives you time to relax and have fun in front of the camera, so when it’s time for your wedding photos, you’ll feel more at ease and confident. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to see how your photographer captures your connection as a couple—those little moments, the laughter, the tenderness. You’ll also get a feel for how they guide you during the shoot, which can take any nerves about posing right out of the equation. On top of that, you’ll have beautiful, personal photos for your save-the-dates, wedding website, or just to treasure for years to come, making it all the more special.
Lastly, trust your gut feeling. If you feel a connection with the photographer and love their work, they’re probably a great fit for you. On the other hand, if something feels off—whether it’s their personality, communication, or overall vibe—don’t be afraid to continue your search. Choosing the right photographer is about finding someone who aligns with your vision and personality. By defining your style, doing thorough research, and taking time to connect, you can ensure that you hire a photographer who will not only capture your moments beautifully but also make the experience enjoyable and stress-free. After all, we’re trying to bring your vision to life! As you plan your wedding, engagement or any photography session, remember that the right photographer will not only capture the big moments but also the quiet, beautiful details that make your day uniquely yours. By choosing a photographer whose style resonates with you and whose personality makes you feel comfortable, you’re setting yourself up for an experience that will leave you with memories you’ll treasure for a lifetime. So take your time, ask the right questions, and make sure that every click of the camera reflects the love, joy, and excitement of your special day. After all, these are the moments you’ll hold close for years to come—and the photographs will be there to tell your story for generations.
