How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Photographer

How to Find the Perfect Wedding Photographer: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the One for You

Choosing a wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during your wedding planning process. It’s not just about finding someone to take pretty pictures—it’s about choosing someone who gets you, your love story, and the vision you have for your day. And let’s face it: once you find that perfect match, then everything else will fall into place, and wedding planning becomes a whole lot more exciting. It’s about selecting a storyteller who will capture the essence of your love story in a way that feels authentic, natural, and timeless.

But let’s be honest, searching for the perfect wedding photographer can feel a little like online dating. You start by scrolling through profiles, trying to find someone who speaks to you and reflects your vision. Maybe you check out their Instagram, dive into their website, and view their portfolio. Slowly, you get the sense that you’ve found someone who just might the perfect fit. But how can you be sure? The answer: it’s all about the connection. As you begin your search, keep these tips in mind.

How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Photographer in 5 Easy Steps

1. Get Inspired – Gather Your Wedding Photo Inspiration

Whether you already know what style you want or you’re still figuring it out, it all begins with collecting inspiration. Start by imagining what you want your wedding day and wedding photos to look like. Do you envision stunning bridal portraits? Epic landscapes? Emotional candid moments? Write down what’s most important to you, and start gathering photos that capture that vibe. Pinterest, Instagram, and Google are your best friends here—save your favorite photos and refer back to them when you start browsing photographers’ portfolios.

2. Explore Portfolios with Your Vision in Mind

As you browse, you’ll likely come across a few photographers whose work stands out. This is the fun part—digging into their portfolios to see if their style aligns with what you want—whether it’s candid, documentary, traditional, moody, artistic, or a blend of styles. Don’t just skim through images—take time to view full galleries. Here are some things to pay attention to:

Getting Ready Photos: Do they capture those raw, emotional moments?
Details: Are they skilled at photographing the little things like rings, invitations, and the cake?
Candids: Look for photos that feel real and unposed, capturing the natural emotions of the day.
Classic Shots: Are there beautiful portraits of couples, families, and the wedding party?
Venue Variety: Does the photographer capture shots of the venue and intimate details? You should have both!

My photography style is a mix of syles. Candid and timeless—think classic, natural, in-the-moment storytelling with a documentary feel, paired with beautifully composed portraits and thoughtful detail shots. I aim to capture those fleeting emotions as they unfold, while also making sure we get the classic, must-have images you’ll treasure forever. Want to see more of what that looks like? Take a peek at my portfolio here!

3. Personality is Everything

You’ll be spending the whole day with your photographer, so it’s crucial that your personalities mesh well. After all, a wedding photographer isn’t just a vendor—they’re part of your team. Ideally, you need someone who can keep things relaxed, make you feel comfortable in front of the camera, and work seamlessly with other vendors. Ultimately, the right photographer will feel more like a friend than a stranger with a camera.

Here’s how to get a sense of a photographer’s personality:

Check out their content: Read their blogs, follow their Instagram, and dive into their website. Does their tone resonate with you?
Look beyond the photos: Do they describe their process? Are they organized and clear about communication?
Set up a call or grab coffee: The best way to see if they’re the right fit is to have a conversation. Get to know each other and see if you click!

4. Think of photography as an Investment in Your Future Memories

Wedding photography is an investment. While it’s tempting to cut costs here, however, photography is one area where you should prioritize quality. Moreover, high-end photographers have the experience to plan your timeline, coordinate with other vendors, and ensure every moment is perfectly captured. That level of expertise doesn’t come cheap.

Remember, it’s not just about the gear—it’s about the years of experience, the planning, and the skill involved in making your photos stunning. You’re investing in someone who will make you feel relaxed, confident, and beautiful in front of the camera while also capturing those candid, heartfelt moments that will be cherished for a lifetime.

I offer different wedding packages and can work with you to create something that fits both your needs and your budget. Feel free to reach here out for more info on pricing!

5. Read Testimonials

Don’t just rely on what a photographer says about themselves. Testimonials and referrals are critical in getting an honest perspective. Check out:

Website Testimonials: Most photographers will feature testimonials from couples who have worked with them.
Instagram Tags: Look for posts from previous couples to see the photos in real-world context.
Vendor or Venue Referrals: These are often a goldmine for reliable recommendations.

Here’s the thing: I don’t aim for just pretty pictures. I aim for connection. My goal is for you to look at your gallery and say, “That’s so us.” And my past couples? They’re still texting me life updates years later. We really do become friends.

In the End Trust Your Gut

Choosing a wedding photographer is undeniably a very difficult decision. Ideally, you want someone who listens to your vision, answers all of your questions, and makes you feel confident and supported throughout the planning process. However, if something doesn’t feel right or if you’re having doubts, trust those feelings. Ultimately, it’s better to find someone who truly aligns with your vision rather than settle for a photographer who doesn’t feel like the perfect fit. After all, your wedding day deserves nothing less.

Here are some questions you can ask:

Can we see a full gallery from a recent wedding?
How long have you been photographing weddings?
Have you worked at our venue before?
How will the final photos be delivered?

Choosing a photographer is an exciting step in your wedding journey, and while it takes time, the effort is absolutely worth it.

Why I’m the Perfect Photographer for Your Wedding (and I’ll Travel Anywhere for You!)

As a destination wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing love stories all over the world—whether it’s an intimate ceremony in the mountains, a beachside vow exchange, or an elegant celebration in a historic venue. No matter where your dream wedding takes you, I’ll be there to document every precious moment.

What sets me apart is my deep commitment to making your wedding day not just stress-free but an experience you’ll enjoy every step of the way. From the first consultation to the final delivery of your photos, I prioritize communication, organization, and a relaxed, fun atmosphere that allows you to be fully present and immersed in your big day.

Plus, I believe in building lasting relationships with my couples. My goal isn’t just to be your photographer—it’s to be part of your journey and create memories you’ll cherish forever. Whether you’re planning a local celebration in Tulsa or a destination wedding on the other side of the world, I’m here for it. No location is too far—if you have a dream wedding in mind, I’ll be there to capture it!

My Style: Romantic, Candid & Timeless Wedding Photography

Overall, I describe my wedding photography style as a blend of romantic, candid, and timeless storytelling. Specifically, I combine photojournalistic intuition with an eye for dreamy details, all while keeping things relaxed and fun. Whether it’s stolen glances or golden hour portraits, I’m here to preserve the magic exactly as it felt. Ultimately, my goal is to capture your love in the most authentic and artful way possible.

Ready to Book the Perfect Wedding Photographer?

Whether you’re tying the knot in Oklahoma or halfway across the world, I’m in. I’ll travel anywhere for love—and I’ll be more than just your photographer. Let’s make magic together.

Let’s Chat ➝