What to Ask Before You Book a Wedding Photographer

If you’re newly engaged, chances are you’ve already spiraled through Pinterest, saved 300 photos on Instagram, and thought: Okay, cool. I’ll just find a photographer who can copy this style for my wedding.

Here’s the hard truth: photographers aren’t vending machines where you punch in a number and get the exact flavor you want. They’re artists, and the style, editing, and approach are baked into everything they deliver. So before you book, here are the questions you need to ask (and the research you should be doing).

1. What Does Their Portfolio Actually Look Like?

Don’t just glance at one viral Instagram reel. Dig deeper. Look at full galleries, not highlight reels. Pay attention to how they capture entire wedding days, not just the epic sunset portraits. Do you love how they handle dark indoor receptions? Rainy ceremonies? The messy dance floor at midnight?

Here’s the thing: a full gallery isn’t going to be packed with only “Pinterest-worthy” photos because that’s not real life. Weddings are a mix of tiny details, in-between moments, family formals, candids, and beautiful portraits. The magic comes from the whole collection telling your story, not every single photo looking like it belongs on the explore page. When you’re reviewing a photographer’s work, ask yourself: Would I be happy if this entire gallery were mine, not just the ten viral shots?

2. Do You Like Their Editing Style?

Editing isn’t a “filter” we slap on, it’s years of refining. Some photographers lean warm and moody, others bright and airy, others bold and colorful. If you hire someone with a style that doesn’t match your vibe, you won’t magically get what you pinned. That’s not something we “switch” for each client, it’s part of our business, and art.

And here’s the important part: your photos should feel like you. They won’t (and shouldn’t) be copy-paste versions of someone else’s wedding on Pinterest. Your story, your people, your location, it’s all one-of-a-kind. The right photographer is someone whose editing style already resonates with you, so that when they document your day, it feels authentic and true to your vision.

3. How Do They Photograph Real Moments?

Some photographers pose every shot, making sure every hand, chin, and boutonniere is in place. Others let the day unfold and capture it documentary-style (hey , that’s me!) candid laughs, champagne spills, happy tears, and all.

Neither approach is wrong, but they feel very different. A heavily posed style might give you magazine perfect images, but it also means a lot of stopping, adjusting, and directing throughout your day. A documentary approach means fewer interruptions and more freedom to actually live your moments, but you have to be comfortable with a little imperfection in exchange for genuine emotion.

Ask yourself: when you look back at your photos, do you want them to feel polished and editorial, like a styled shoot or do you want them to feel raw and real, like you’re reliving the day? Knowing this ahead of time will save you disappointment later and help you find a photographer who shoots in a way that matches your vision and your personality.

3. How Do They Adapt Throughout the Day?

Weddings have their own rhythm. Sometimes moments run ahead, sometimes they stretch longer. A seasoned photographer knows how to read the room, adjust naturally, and keep the day feeling smooth. When you’re looking for someone to document your wedding, ask how they approach shifting timelines, unexpected weather, or lighting changes. You want someone who brings a sense of calm, so you can stay present while they handle the rest.

Bonus Tip: Consider Hiring a Coordinator

Your photographer is there to document the day, not run it. While we naturally help with little timeline adjustments and keeping things smooth, having a planner or day of coordinator takes so much weight off everyone’s shoulders, especially yours as the Bride and Groom.

A coordinator keeps the day running smoothly by managing the flow of events, keeping track of timing, so your photographer can focus entirely on capturing it all. It’s one of the best investments you can make for your own peace of mind, and it makes the entire photography experience smoother, more relaxed, and more fun.

5. What’s Included in Their Packages?

Not all photographers include the same things. Some packages come with second shooters, engagement sessions, albums, or timeline planning help. Others keep it super simple. Read carefully, and ask questions so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

6. Do You Actually Like Them as a Person?

A weird thing to consider about a person you probably haven’t even met yet, but, you’re with your photographer more than anyone else on your wedding day (yes, even your new spouse at times). From getting ready in the morning to the last dance at night, we’re there for it all. How you feel in front of the camera directly affects how the images look.

That’s why it’s worth hopping on a call or grabbing coffee pay attention to how the conversation flows: do you feel comfortable, heard, and at ease? Do they explain things clearly and feel approachable? A good fit isn’t just about loving their portfolio, it’s about trusting the person behind the camera enough to let your guard down and be fully yourself.

What It Really Comes Down To

Choosing a photographer isn’t just about finding someone with a good Instagram feed. It’s about finding someone whose work, approach, and personality line up with what you want for your day. Do your research, look at galleries, and ask the right questions so you can feel confident in your decision. At the end of the day, your wedding photos should feel like you and not a copy of someone else’s board, and not filtered through a style that doesn’t fit you.

If This Sounds Like What You’re Looking For…

Chances are, if you’re nodding along with this post, it’s probably a sign. My approach is calm, documentary driven, and rooted in making sure your photos feel natural and true to you. No shot lists, no stiff posing, just real moments, captured with intention.

If that’s what you want for your wedding, let’s chat. I’d love to hear about your plans and see if we’re the right fit.