A wedding photographer is one of the most essential vendors to check off your wedding vendor checklist as you plan your big day.

The tricky part though is how to choose a wedding photographer? What should you look for in a wedding photographer?

Finding a suitable wedding photographer is easier said than done. Especially when you have a pool of exciting options available at your disposal, it gets difficult to pick just one. You’re investing hard-earned money in people you’ve likely never met, and you’re trusting they’re going to show up on your day, months in the future. Um, freaky, right!?

Here are 7 essential tips to help you navigate the process and ensure you get the wedding photos of your dreams.

1. A Photography style you absolutely love. Having a genuine emotional response to the photographs you see in a wedding photographer’s portfolio is a clue that you adore their work and will likely adore the photos & videos they produce from your wedding. Pay attention to how you feel when looking through the images.

   A photographer’s portfolio is their best showcase. Look through their previous work (photos & films) to ensure their style and quality align with your vision. Pay attention to how they capture moments, their use of light, choice of music, and their attention to detail. This will give you a clear idea of what to expect on your wedding day.

2. A killer personality that vibes with yours. Your photographer will probably spend more time with you than anyone else on your wedding day. If your photographer is someone that you don’t enjoy being around, it is going to make for an awkward experience. Awkward is not what you want on your wedding day. Find someone that you can relax with, be comfortable with, and just enjoy their presence.

We honestly think finding someone who you can have a glass of wine with (or a cup of coffee with) is the biggest factor in hiring your wedding photographer! You better like them!

3. Prioritise Experience Over Budget. Everyone’s favorite topic: money! Just kidding.

It’s true – you probably can’t talk about wedding photography without talking about money. Wedding photography will likely take up a chunk of your wedding budget. And for good reason! Photography is an investment.

When you see a higher price tag, you’re likely also getting a professional who understands their cost of doing business, and is ready to give you a fantastic client experience. And that’s what any one wants on their wedding day!

You pay for the experience. If you are looking for high-end, professional photos, it will cost. This doesn’t mean everyone that charges a lot is a safe hire. Not at all. What we are saying though is the cost of the photography generally goes along with: professionalism, skill-set, style of work, quality of deliverables, client experience, etc. Remember, there are ‘no re-takes’ at weddings.

4. Ask your photographer to view a full gallery. It’s easy to showcase the best of the best images on social media, but you want to make sure that the entire gallery is consistent with what you see online. Pretty images on Instagram are one thing. But you need the full picture, no pun intended. One of the critical questions to ask before hiring your wedding photographer is, “Can you show us some actual, full wedding galleries?”

If you’re trying to choose a wedding photographer and they won’t show you full wedding day galleries, that’s a red flag!

5. Interview a minimum of three photographers. Even if you absolutely fall in love with the first photographer you interview, don’t hire them until you’ve met with two others. If you still love the first photographer, you’ll be even more certain after you’ve met with others. Find a photographer who you can LEAN ON.

6. Use good sense when looking at online reviews. Start by researching photographers in your area and reading reviews/testimonials from past clients. Websites like WedMeGood and Google can give you a sense of what other couples are saying about a wedding photographer. Look for reviews that mention not just the photos but also the photographer’s demeanour and professionalism.

7. Review the proposal, contract and policies with your photographer. Ideally you should receive everything in written communication from the photographer - from proposals to contracts & NDAs. Contracts play a crucial role by clearly outlining expectations & responsibilities and ensure that both the couple and the photographer are aligned for the big day.

BONUS TIP: All things equal? Go with your gut! Ultimately, you should choose a photographer whose work you love and with whom you feel a connection. Trust your instincts and select someone who makes you feel confident and at ease.