It’s Peta Hall here from Weddings Captured by Peta, and today I want to talk about one of the most important aspects of any wedding: the photographer! Read on in “Framing Your Love Story: Choosing The Right Wedding Photographer” for The Planning Issue.

Choosing the right wedding photographer can be an enormous task, but it’s an essential one. After all, your wedding photos will be cherished memories that you’ll look back on for years to come. So, how do you choose the right photographer for you? Here are my top tips!

Determine Your Style

Before you start looking for a photographer, take some time to think about what style of photography you prefer. Do you like bright and airy photos or moody ones and those that are a little more heavy on the drama ones? Do you prefer candid shots or posed portraits? Once you have a clear idea of the style you like, it will be easier to find a photographer who can deliver that look.

Spend 15 minutes specifically stalking social media and book-marking wedding photography that you like and then have a look at what a majority of your images then look like – chances are you will lean towards a particular style, and from there you will find yourself drawn to the photographer that can deliver on that look.

Look At Portfolios

Once you’ve identified your preferred style, start looking at portfolios. A photographer’s portfolio will give you a sense of their style and the types of weddings they’ve photographed before. It’s essential to look at a variety of weddings to ensure that the photographer can deliver consistent quality across different styles and settings. *Extra points here if they have actually photographed at your wedding venue!

Consider Experience

Experience matters when it comes to wedding photography. A seasoned wedding photographer will have the skills to capture all the essential moments of your day, even if things don’t go as planned. Look for a photographer who has experience shooting weddings similar to yours, whether that’s a beach wedding, a rustic barn wedding, or an elegant ballroom affair.

Personality Matters

Your photographer will be with you throughout your WHOLE wedding day, so it’s crucial to choose someone who has a personality that meshes well with yours. If you’re outgoing and fun-loving, look for a photographer who is the same. If you’re more reserved, choose someone who can put you at ease and make you feel comfortable.

Ask For Referrals

One of the best ways to find a great wedding photographer is to ask for referrals from friends and family who have recently gotten married. If you’ve been to a wedding where you loved the photographer’s work, ask the couple for their contact information. They’ll likely be happy to share their experience and help you find the right photographer for your day. Word of mouth is going to be your best friend in this process.

Read Reviews

Online reviews can be a valuable resource when it comes to choosing a wedding photographer. Check out the photographer’s website, social media pages, and online directories to read what past clients have to say. Look for reviews that mention the photographer’s communication skills, professionalism, and the quality of their work.

Discuss Pricing & Packages

Before you book a photographer, make sure you understand their pricing and packages. Wedding photography can be expensive, but it’s an investment in your memories that’s worth it. Make sure you know exactly what you’ll be getting for your money, including the number of hours of coverage, the number of photos you’ll receive, and any additional products like albums or prints.

Meet In Person

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential photographers, it’s a good idea to meet with them in person. This will give you a chance to get to know them better, perhaps open up the laptop and be able to see more of their work and ask any questions you might have. It’s also an opportunity for the photographer to get to know you and your vision for your wedding day.

To wrap this up, choosing the right wedding photographer is a big decision, but it’s one that’s worth taking the time to get right. By considering your style preferences, looking at portfolios, and considering their experience and personality, you can find a photographer who will capture the magic of your wedding day for years to come. Happy planning!

About Weddings Captured by Peta: A bit about me: I’m a manifesting, modern country-lovin’, wedding photographer in Bendigo, Victoria, Australia – travelling across the state to capture your big day. I take pride in capturing the small moments leading to wedding memories that couples will never forget (because they have the photos!).