How to find a Wedding Photographer You’ll Love and Trust

There’s a moment at every wedding that no one really sees. It might be your dad quietly fixing his tie with trembling hands. Or your grandma wiping away a tear with a wrinkled tissue during your vows. Or the way your new husband looks at you when you’re not even paying attention.

Those are the moments that matter. The ones you didn’t even realize you’d want to remember forever, until you see them in a photo.

That’s why choosing your wedding photographer isn’t just another item on the checklist. It’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Because once the cake is eaten, the flowers fade, and the dress is packed away… what remains are the photos. The emotions. The story. And it deserves to be told beautifully.

Here’s how to find a photographer who can do just that:

1. Look Beyond the Pretty Pictures Look for a story when you scroll through a photographer’s portfolio, don’t just look for Pinterest worthy photos. Look for feeling. Can you hear the laughter? Feel the nerves? See the way they capture love, not just poses? Consistency matters, but so does connection. Do their photos move you? Do they make you pause and feel something?

2. Ask to See a Full Wedding Day 

Instagram shows the highlights. But the real magic? That’s in the full gallery. Ask to see what a complete wedding day looks like, from getting ready to the dance floor moments. You want to know that your photographer can tell the whole story, not just the best five images.

3. Understand That This Is an Investment in Your Legacy 

A good wedding photographer doesn’t just show up with a nice camera. Their training and experience comes from shooting multiple weddings, understanding timelines, working with different lighting, and handling the pressure of a busy wedding day. They also know how to direct couples to get flattering, natural-looking photos.

A skilled photographer knows the best ways to pose you, how to make you feel comfortable, and how to get authentic moments that tell the story of your day. Their eye for detail ensures that every photo captures the beauty and soul of your day. Remember, you're paying for their experience, creativity, and skill.

4. Make Sure You Click (Pun Intended) 

Your photographer will be by your side more than almost anyone else on your wedding day. So personality matters. A lot. You want someone who can gently take the reins when needed, who makes you feel safe in front of the camera, and who’s just fun to be around. When the vibe is right, it shows in your photos.

5. Ask the Real Questions 

Make sure they offer a clear contract that outlines everything: coverage hours, what's included, backup plans. You should also have a chance to talk in a free consultation before booking. A real conversation, not just email back and forth.

6. Don’t Just Imagine the Photos—Picture the Album 

Ask to see a printed album. Not just online galleries. Holding a finished wedding album in your hands shows you how your memories might come together one day. The design, the colors, the emotion - they all matter.

7. Consider a Second Set of Eyes 

Sometimes, the best moment happens when no one’s looking, except the second shooter. They catch what the lead can’t, especially if you're in different places getting ready or when two moments happen at once. Just make sure the second shooter is someone your photographer trusts and works with regularly, not a random assistant.

8. Know What to Expect Logistically 

Once you’re ready to book, ask about the retainer, payment schedule, and what happens next. How will your photos be delivered? When will you get them? Will you get sneak peeks?

Feeling clear on the process brings confidence, and confidence brings calm.

Final Thoughts: Your wedding photographer will be your eyes on the moments you’ll miss, your memory keeper, and your storyteller. Choose someone whose work moves you, whose energy fits yours, and whose experience you trust.

💌 And if you’re not sure where to start, I’ve got you. Download my free checklist: “What to Ask When Hiring a Wedding Photographer". It’ll walk you through the exact questions to ask, so you can book with clarity, and peace of heart.