Finding A Wedding Photographer
Your wedding is one of the most important days of your life, and finding the right wedding photographer to document the day is pretty important. Choosing the perfect photographer might feel overwhelming with so many options available. This guide breaks down the process step by step to help you understand budgets, styles, and reviews. Let’s begin your journey to finding a photographer who meets your needs and truly inspires you.
Be Inspired! Browse a Wide Range of Photos and Websites
The best way to start is to explore. We seem to live in a world of photos — so take some time to notice what inspires you. Scroll through photographers’ websites, wedding blogs and Instagram and pay attention to the styles that feel right. You might also learn what you hate — and that’s great too!
Don’t Worry About Photography Labels
You don’t need to put a name to a style—just focus on what you love. Most photographers are a blend of styles, not strictly one category. Terms like ‘documentary‘ or ‘fine art’ can be helpful but don’t always tell the full story. Instead of worrying about labels, look at photography portfolios and imagine how the photos would feel if they were yours.
Look For Portfolio Consistency
A photographer’s portfolio should be consistently strong—there shouldn’t be any weak links. It’s easy to be impressed by a handful of standout images, but a wedding gallery is much more than just the highlights. Look beyond the best shots and check for consistency in lighting, composition, and natural expressions. A great photographer delivers quality throughout the entire day, not just in a few selected moments.
Check Reviews
Reviews can be helpful, but they don’t tell the whole story. Look for patterns—if multiple couples mention great communication or a calm presence, that’s a good sign. A few negative reviews aren’t necessarily a deal-breaker, but pay attention to how (or if) the photographer responds. And remember, the best photographers might not have hundreds of reviews—they could be in high demand with a limited number of clients each year.
Why Wedding Photographers Don’t Always Show Prices
You might notice that some photographers don’t display their prices online—I’m one of them. Weddings can vary hugely, from the number of hours covered to the location and specific needs of the couple. A simple message outlining your plans helps the photographer provide a tailored quote that fits your day, rather than a one-size-fits-all price list. So my advice is that if you start by sharing a few details you’ll get more personal and helpful responses from any vendors you reach out to.
Don’t Limit Your Search to Local Photographers
Your wedding is a special day—your guests will be coming from across the world, so why limit your photographer to one who lives in the neighbourhood? Many photographers are happy to travel, and choosing someone based on their work rather than their postcode can open up more options. If you’ve found a photographer you love who isn’t local, it’s always worth reaching out. You might be surprised at how flexible they are, especially for destination weddings or unique locations.
Flexibility Can Open Up More Options
Being open to different dates, seasons, or even slightly adjusting your coverage hours can sometimes help you book a photographer who might otherwise be out of reach. Some photographers offer different rates for midweek or off-season weddings, so if you love someone’s work but they seem beyond your budget, it’s worth asking if they have options that fit.
Know Your Budget & What Matters Most
Wedding photography comes in all price ranges, so it helps to have a rough idea of your budget before reaching out. But price alone doesn’t tell the full story—think about what you actually want from your photographer. Do you need full-day coverage, an engagement shoot, or a second photographer? Some photographers offer flexible options, so it’s worth asking about packages or custom quotes. Rather than just comparing prices, compare what each photographer offers and how well it suits your day.
Zoom, Call, or Coffee? Get to Know Your Photographer
A great photographer is more than their portfolio—you’ll spend much of your day with them. A quick Zoom, call, or coffee can reveal if they put you at ease and listen to what matters to you. It’s not just about great photos but finding someone you’ll enjoy having around.
A Chat With Your Photographer
When you meet with a photographer, it’s your chance to get a sense of their personality and whether they’re the right fit for you. Keep it natural—don’t overthink it—ask about what really matters to you. What’s their approach to weddings? Do they seem genuinely engaged with your plans? It’s also worth discussing turnaround times, how many images you’ll receive, and what’s included in their packages. Most importantly, do you feel comfortable talking with them? The right photographer should feel like someone you’d be happy to have around all day.
Trust Your Instincts
Ultimately, my advice is not to overthink it. If their photos inspire you, you’ve had a good chat, and it just feels right, you’ve likely found your wedding photographer. Your photographer will be by your side throughout the day, so go with someone you trust and whose photography means something to you. If everything clicks, there’s no need to second-guess—just go for it!