Your wedding photos aren't just pictures, they're one of the only things that you get to hold and keep to take you back to your wedding day.
They're your own personal time-machine back to one of the most joy filled days of your life. Choosing the right photographer isn't just about ticking a box, but finding someone who can see and freeze the energy of your day exactly as you want to remember it.
Here are the top three things that you should consider before saying "yes" to your photographer.
Style that matches your vision
It goes without saying that you need to actually like the images that your photographer creates, but every photographer views the world differently - literally and creatively. Do you want moody, cinematic shots that feel like a scene from a film? Bold, editorial style, or more quiet, raw images that catch the tear your grandpa swears he didn't shed? Make sure that the photographer's creative language speaks to you. If you can imagine your own day in those images and get excited about it, you've found a contender.
Connection
You're going to spend more time with your photographer than any other vendor. Sometimes, even more than your spouse until after the ceremony!
If you can relax, be yourself, and even laugh with them during your consult or engagement shoot, you're on track to having found the right photographer for you. If it feels awkward or uncomfortable and smiles and laughter feel forced - that's likely not the vibe that you want to catch with your images. You'll likely remember your photographer for many years to come, so it's important to find one that you trust enough to witness your most unfiltered moments.
Experience Beyond the Photos
A good wedding photographer isn't just clicking a button all day - they are wrangling together family members, helping you to calm your nerves, keeping timelines on track, practically being a back-up wedding planner and stylist, all while navigating tricky lighting conditions and keeping the day running smoothly. It's a big responsibility. Asking about their approach to problem-solving and knowing how they handle surprises (because there always will be surprises) is important before you lock in. A good photographer experience is the calm in the chaos; the person that you go to when things don't go to plan, and the one who somehow manages to tie it all together anyway.
The right wedding photographer is part artist, part friend, part wedding-day superhero. Find someone with work that makes your heart sing AND who makes you feel at ease. That's where the magic lies.