Choosing the Right Wedding Photographer for You

Picking the right wedding photographer can make or break your memories of the day. Here is how we would go about it, plus the questions we think every couple should ask - including of us.

1. Find the right style

You have probably come across images that speak to you already. Before moving forward, it is important to feel a connection with a photographer's work. Do you like dramatic images, candid moments, detail shots? Save or pin the images you really like - it helps narrow your options, and you may want to share them with the photographer you choose.

Our own style, which you can see in our wedding portfolio, leans toward vibrant colour, dramatic light and real emotion. The images speak for themselves, which makes it easy to tell whether they fit your vision.

2. Why experience matters

There is a lot of pressure on a wedding day because things do not always go to plan, and there is no second chance at a fleeting moment. Bad weather, large groups, difficult light and tight timelines can throw off an inexperienced photographer. The less experience a photographer has, the more homework you may want to do.

Ask whether they have shot at your venue, what the rainy-day plan is, and how long they have been photographing weddings. Review a couple of full weddings, not just highlights, to see what your coverage will actually look like. We have been photographing weddings together since 1995, and there are always two of us on the day.

3. Are you compatible?

Chances are you will spend more time with your photographers on your wedding day than with anyone else, so it matters that you like being around them. If you are local, most photographers will happily meet to chat through the details; if you are planning from away, ask for a video call. An engagement session soon after booking is another great way to confirm you have made the right choice.

4. Price versus value

Easy for us to say, but "you get what you pay for" applies here. Shopping for a wedding photographer means comparing artistic styles, experience, prices, personalities and levels of service and product all at once. Get the full details on what is offered - some photographers have off-peak rates, full and half-day coverage, and some include albums while others include only the coverage. Make sure you are comparing similar offerings.

If a friend offers to photograph your wedding for free, look at their recent work first. If it is not what you want, it is fine to say you have already chosen a photographer and invite them to relax as a guest.

5. Get the details before committing

Contract: make sure there is a written one, and that you understand copyright, hours of coverage and deliverables.

Copyright: most photographers keep the copyright but should spell out your rights. Make sure you can print, share and copy your images. Our policy is simple - for personal use, you can do anything you like with your images.

Second photographer: are there two? Can the second work independently, and how experienced are they? This matters most during getting-ready and ceremony coverage, when two independent photographers mean far more candid moments captured.

Files: are digital files included, and how are they processed and retouched?

6. Ideas that make your wedding stand out

We like suggesting things that make coverage feel one-of-a-kind - a fun group picture with the wedding party, a portrait in an unexpected spot, a sneak-out at twilight. Tell us what would make the day feel like you and we will build it into the plan.

Ten questions to ask a prospective photographer

1. Can you walk me through your wedding photography process from start to finish?
2. How would you describe your style, and what kinds of weddings do you typically photograph?
3. Can I see full weddings, not just highlights?
4. How do you handle difficult lighting or weather?
5. What is your approach to candid moments?
6. What equipment do you use, and what is your backup plan if something fails?
7. Have you shot at my venue, and how do you prepare for a new one?
8. What is your editing process, and when can I expect my photos?
9. Are you available for engagement photos?
10. How do you handle special requests or must-have shots?

We are happy to answer all ten. Get in touch and tell us about your day.