Choosing a wedding photographer is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make during the planning process. Your wedding photos are how you’ll remember your day for the rest of your life, so it’s important to find someone who’s the right fit. Here’s what I suggest as a past bride & a wedding photographer to keep in mind as you start your search.

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Consider The Editing Style and Approach When Choosing a Wedding Photographer

This might seem like a no-brainer, but take a good look at their editing style and approach. Do the photos feel timeless—like something you’ll still love 30 years from now? Timeless means they reflect the real colors and mood of the day, not just a trendy filter or preset.

Check if the images are bright or moody, how the colors look, and whether the couple looks stiffly posed or more natural and candid. Do the photos only show the couple or include lots of guest moments too? Ask to see at least two full wedding galleries so you can get a real sense of how they tell a full story.

Ask yourself—can you picture your own wedding day in images like these? The way the family is seen, the emotions are felt, and the colors come across. Does it feel like a version of your day you’d be happy to relive again and again as the years go by?

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Choosing a Wedding Photographer Starts With a Consultation Call

Even if you think you’ve already found the one, have a consultation call with at least two photographers. Talking to more than one gives you perspective and helps you notice things you might’ve missed.

This is actually my biggest personal regret from my own wedding. I wish I had done more than one call before deciding. It really helps to hear how photographers explain their process, how they handle timeline pressure, and how they talk about your priorities.

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Choose a Photographer Who Offers a Contract and has Insurance

This is a big one and often overlooked. Make sure your photographer has a contract and insurance in place. Not only does this protect both of you, but it’s something your planner or venue might actually require.

So many couples are (understandably) nervous about getting scammed or ghosted. A clear contract with deliverables, timelines, and expectations helps make sure everyone is on the same page. A contract should also have some personal details about them like a mailing address for the business.

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When Choosing a Wedding Photographer, Consider Their Personality Too

Your photographer will be with you all day—third-wheeling your biggest moments and capturing the emotions as they unfold. When you look back at your photos, you’ll remember them too. You want to enjoy being around this person and feel like you can be yourself.

Use your consultation call to get a sense of their vibe. Do they feel calming? Fun? Organized? Honest? You want to walk away from that call feeling excited and confident.

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Choosing a Wedding Photographer That Fits Your Budget and Your Needs

Price is important, but it’s more than just going with the cheapest (or the most expensive). Try to find someone who fits your budget, while also understanding what their pricing reflects.

If the price seems very low, it’s totally fair to ask why. Are they newer to weddings? Are they missing gear or insurance? If the price is higher, what does that include? A second shooter? Albums or prints? Limited availability? A luxury experience?

It’s all about understanding the value behind the number.

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Do You Need a Second Photographer?

Some wedding packages already include a second photographer, and others offer it as an add-on. Not every wedding needs one—but it can be really helpful in certain situations.

For example, if you and your fiancé are getting ready in separate locations and both want that part of your day documented. Or if you have a larger guest count and want more coverage of your guests and candid moments throughout the day. Ask your photographer what they recommend based on your wedding plans.

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Final Thoughts

Choosing a wedding photographer is more than just checking a box on your planning to-do list. It’s about finding someone who makes you feel seen, comfortable, and confident. Someone whose work you’ll treasure, not just now, but 50 years from now.

I encourage you to really think about your decision. Your wedding photos are how you’ll remember your day—the only tangible thing you have once it’s all over. The flowers fade, the cake gets eaten, but your photos last. They bring you right back to the emotion, the people, and the love that surrounded you.

I’m Ariel—a wedding photographer with a true-to-color editing style and a documentary approach to wedding days, making sure your day is remembered how it was. High school sweethearts are my weak spot (I married mine), and I always notice the sentimental details couples weave into their day. If that sounds like the kind of photographer you want and need, fill out my contact form and let’s chat more.