How to Choose a Wedding Photographer: The Ultimate Guide
So, you’re planning your wedding, and you’ve heard that capturing the day is something you might want to look into, but you aren’t sure where to start. Wedding photography is a big investment, and choosing the right photographer can feel overwhelming. Let’s break down step by step how to choose a wedding photographer so you can confidently find the right wedding photographer for your big day.
Step 1: Identify Your Preferred Style
Before reaching out to photographers, take some time to explore different photography styles. Each photographer has a different wedding photography style and editing styles. Also think about if you’re hiring a videographer, and if it’s important to you that their style matches or compliments the photography style, or if that doesn’t matter as much to you. Think about what resonates with you most, and what you would most like to see in your wedding photos:
- Light & Airy – Soft, romantic, and bright. This style features lots of natural light, pastel tones, and a dreamy feel. Perfect for whimsical, elegant weddings.
- Dark & Moody – Cinematic, with deep shadows and rich, earthy tones. This style emphasizes emotion and atmosphere, ideal for intimate or fall/winter celebrations.
- True to Life – Natural and timeless colors that stay true to how the day actually looked. A classic choice for couples who want clean, color-accurate images that won’t feel trendy or dated.
- Documentary-Style / Photojournalistic – Story-driven and candid. Captures real, unposed moments as they happen, preserving the authentic emotion and movement of the day.
- Film Photography – Soft, grainy textures and beautiful color tones. Often shot on actual film or emulated digitally, this nostalgic style offers a timeless, romantic feel.
- Fine Art Photography – Thoughtfully composed with an artistic touch. Focuses on elegant, high fashion, editorial images with a refined aesthetic—often seen in high-end wedding publications.
- Black and White Photography – Classic and emotional. Removes distractions and emphasizes light, contrast, and emotion. Often used to highlight powerful or intimate moments.
Look at social media and photographers’ websites to see what you gravitate toward. Consider if the style matches your personality, wedding vibe and home decor (Because you’ll want to eventually hang them on your walls). A fun, outgoing couple may not feel represented by a dramatic, moody style, and vice versa.
Step 2: Set Your Budget
Wedding photography pricing varies widely, but for full-day coverage (8–12 hours), expect to pay between $3,000 – $9,000. If you see photographers charging significantly less, be cautious—quality, experience, and reliability often correlate with price.
Budget Breakdown:
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$100 – $2,000 – Beginner photographers, likely still building their portfolio.
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$2,500 – $8,000 – Mid-range professionals with solid experience and reviews.
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$8,000+ – High-end photographers with extensive experience and premium service.
If you love a photographer but they’re out of budget, consider a custom package rather than asking for a discount.
Example message: “I love your work because ___ and really want you to capture our day. My budget is ___. Could we explore a custom package that fits within it?”
Step 3: Find & Shortlist Potential Photographers
Once you’ve identified your preferred style and budget, start researching photographers. Look at their website, portfolio, and Instagram. Key things to check:
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Consistency – Does their work look polished and professional across different weddings?
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Client Testimonials – Read reviews to see if past clients were happy with their experience.
- Recommended by Wedding Vendors – Does your wedding planner or wedding venue recommend them? That’s a great sign!
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Investment Details – Are their photography packages clear, and do they fit your budget? Do they clearly include deliverables (Digital files, delivery dates, second shooter, engagement session etc)
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Personality Match – Can you see yourself spending an entire day with them?
Pro Tip: Avoid sending mass inquiries. Instead, personalize your message to show you’ve done your research.
Step 4: Inquire & Ask Key Questions
Once you’ve shortlisted a few photographers, send an inquiry and schedule a consultation phone call or in person meeting. This is your chance to gauge their professionalism and personality.
Key Questions to Ask:
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How do you handle unexpected situations (weather, delays, etc.)?
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What happens if you’re sick or unavailable on the wedding day?
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How do you back up and store our photos?
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Do you have legal business licensing and insurance?
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How many images can we expect, and what’s your delivery timeline on our wedding gallery?
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What’s your cancellation or rescheduling policy? (This question gained it’s necessity after COVID)
Step 5: Book & Sign the Contract
Once you’ve found “the one,” be sure to: ✔️ Read and sign a contract (a reputable photographer will always have one!) ✔️ Pay your deposit to secure your date ✔️ Stay in touch with your photographer for timeline planning ✔️ Schedule an engagement session to get comfortable in front of the camera
FAQ: How to Choose a Wedding Photographer
How to pick a photographer for a wedding?
Choose a photographer whose style, personality, and experience align with your vision. Review their portfolio, testimonials, and pricing to ensure they are a good fit.
How do you choose your photographer?
Look for someone who makes you feel comfortable, understands your vision, and has strong communication. A consultation call can help you gauge if they are the right fit.
Which type of photography is best for a wedding?
It depends on your preference! Light & airy is romantic, moody is dramatic, and documentary is natural and candid. Choose a style that reflects your personality and wedding atmosphere.
How many photos should a photographer give for a wedding?
Most photographers deliver 50–100 images per hour of coverage. For an 8-hour full wedding, expect around 400–800 edited photos. Ask your photographer before booking to be sure.
How many photographers should I reach out to?
Reach out to 3–5 photographers to compare styles, packages, and personalities. Any more than that may become overwhelming.
What questions should I ask my photographer?
Ask about their backup plan, contract, image delivery timeline, emergency policies, and shooting style. Also, clarify pricing and any hidden fees.
How much does a wedding photographer cost?
The average cost ranges from $3,000 – $9,000, depending on experience, location, and hours of coverage. High-end photographers can charge $10,000+ for luxury weddings.
Final Thoughts on how to choose a wedding photographer
Choosing the perfect wedding photographer is an investment in your memories. Take your time, do your research, and pick someone who not only fits your style but also makes you feel comfortable and valued.
Still searching for your perfect photographer? We offer wedding photography across Canada and Western America.
📸✨ Happy wedding planning!
xx Megan
9/11/19
