How to Choose a Wedding Photographer (Without Losing Your Mind)

So, you're planning a wedding (!!!) and now it’s time to choose your photographer. This is a big one. You’re trusting someone to document the best day of your life — the belly laughs, the teary vows, the weird uncle dancing — all of it. And if that sounds like a lot, don’t stress. I’ve got you.

Here’s how to choose a wedding photographer who’s not only talented, but actually makes you feel good throughout the whole process.

1. Personality > Portfolio

Listen, you’re going to spend a lot of time with your photographer — during engagement sessions, timeline meetings, the wedding day, maybe even a late-night tequila shot (if we’re lucky). So it helps if you actually like them as a human.

Find someone you vibe with. Someone who makes you laugh, calms your nerves, and hypes you up when needed. If you can imagine hanging out with them on your best and worst days, that’s a green flag.

Better energy = better photos. Always.

2. Understand the Editing Style

Most people don’t realize how wildly different photography styles can be. So here’s a super quick breakdown:

• Cool-toned edit: Think moodier, muted colors, deep greens and shadows. A little cinematic.
  

  

• Warm-toned edit: Think golden, glowy skin, cozy vibes, sunset warmth.

Your photographer’s editing style should already look how you want your photos to feel. Don’t expect someone who edits dark and moody to suddenly go light and airy for you. That’s not how this works — and it’s not fair to either of you.

3. Budget (But Make It Honest)

Photography is art. And art comes at a wide range of price points — from “friend with a camera” to “we flew them in from Iceland.” Neither is wrong, but know what you’re looking for.

Here’s the deal:📌 If you're posting in a Facebook group asking for a photographer, include your budget. Seriously. It helps both you and the photographers looking at your post.📌 If you don’t have a budget? Say that too — just be transparent.

Everyone’s starting point is different. Just don’t ghost someone after they send you their pricing. We’re all humans over here. ❤️

4. Read the Reviews

Most established photographers will have reviews available — on Google, Facebook, The Knot, wherever. Read them. Look for patterns: Are people saying the same things over and over? (Like “made us feel so comfortable” or “had backup plans for everything”?) That’s your sign.

And if you don’t see any reviews… well, maybe it’s a new biz. Or maybe it’s not. Use your gut.

5. Social Media Vibes

Let’s be real — Instagram is basically a photographer’s portfolio and personality rolled into one. Scroll through.Do they show up often? Are they consistent with their work? Do you like the way they talk to their audience?

You’re not being a stalker. You’re being smart.

6. No Contract? No Deal.

This is non-negotiable. If a photographer doesn’t have a contract, run.

A contract protects both of you. It lays out what’s included, when you’ll get your photos, how payments work, and what happens if life throws a curveball (hi, 2020).

Never, ever give anyone money without a signed contract first. Pinky promise me.

7. Ask to See a Full Gallery

Instagram is the highlight reel. But weddings are more than 10 perfectly edited portraits — they’re full of chaotic, candid, sometimes sweaty moments.

Ask to see a full wedding gallery. That way, you know what their coverage actually looks like from start to finish: getting ready, ceremony, group shots, reception lighting, all of it.

8. Bonus: Trust Your Gut

This is cheesy, but true: you’ll know when it feels right. If someone makes you feel confident, calm, excited, and taken care of? That’s your person.

Go with someone who sees your vision, respects your values, and gives you room to just be you. Because that’s when the real magic happens.

xo Rachel