Sep 26 2025
How to Find Your
Dream Wedding Photographer
Choosing your wedding photographer is one of the most personal and important decisions you'll make. These photos will tell the story of your day for decades to come! It's about so much more than just pretty pictures—it's about finding an artist who understands your vision and a person you trust completely.
With booking season coming to a close for 2026 and opening up for 2027, now is the perfect time to start your search. The best photographers get booked up 12-18 months in advance!
4 tips for choosing the person who will capture your memories
1. Understand Their Style (Beyond the Filter). First, there's editing style (light & airy, dark & moody, true-to-color). But also, what's their shooting style? Do you want candid, photojournalistic moments, or more traditional, posed portraits? Look for a photographer whose portfolio is full of the style you love.
2. Ask to See a Full Wedding Gallery. An Instagram feed is a highlight reel. Ask to see a full gallery from a real wedding (ideally at a venue similar to yours). This shows you how they capture everything from getting ready in a dim hotel room to the fast-paced action on the dance floor.
3. The 'Vibe Check' is Non-Negotiable. Your photographer is with you ALL day long. Schedule a video call! Do you connect with them? Do they have a calming presence or a high-energy vibe? Make sure their personality is one you'll be happy to have around during your most intimate moments.
4. Get Clear on the Package & Timeline. Don't just look at the price. How many hours of coverage are included? Is a second shooter part of the deal? What is the turnaround time for sneak peeks and the final gallery? Understanding the deliverables is key!
Keeping track of all your amazing photographer options can be a challenge. Our Vendor Comparison Spreadsheet makes it simple to organize your research in one place during your photographer search and your search fall all other vendors.
Check out our Essentials Bundle, which contains the Vendor Comparison Spreadsheet as well as 9 other planning spreadsheets that help you organize your whole wedding day!