Finding the Right Photographer: It’s More Than Just Pretty Pictures
In a world where wedding photography is everywhere—on Instagram, Pinterest, and in every bridal magazine—it’s easy to think that choosing a photographer is as simple as loving their work. But as a destination wedding photographer, I can tell you firsthand: finding the right photographer is about much more than just pretty pictures.
This past week, I received a few inquiries that made me reflect on just how important it is for couples to truly understand what they’re looking for before reaching out. One inquiry was for an elopement—something I don’t offer. Another was from a couple who hadn’t read my website and didn’t realize their budget wasn’t aligned with my starting rates. And then there was a dream inquiry for a wedding at Neuendorf House—but the couple wasn’t ready to book and had no idea when they were actually getting married.
These situations reminded me of something crucial: wedding photography isn’t a one-size-fits-all service. So if you’re planning a wedding and want photos that capture the essence of your day in the most meaningful way, here’s what you need to consider before reaching out to a photographer.
1. Know Your Budget (And Do Your Research First)
One of the most common reasons couples and photographers aren’t a match is budget. Wedding photography is an investment, and every photographer prices their work based on their experience, demand, and the level of service they provide.
I often get inquiries from couples who love my work but haven’t looked at my pricing. When they see the numbers, they’re surprised. This isn’t about sticker shock—it’s about making sure you’re reaching out to photographers whose work and experience align with your expectations and what you’re comfortable investing.
💡 How to Avoid This Mistake: Before inquiring, take the time to research a photographer’s pricing (or at least their starting rates). If their pricing isn’t listed, assume they are a luxury service if their work appears in top-tier publications or aligns with a high-end aesthetic. If the photographer is slightly over your budget but you love their work, reach out with an open mind—you may be able to adjust priorities to make it work.
✨ Pro Tip: A great photographer isn’t just there to take pictures—they are documenting your once-in-a-lifetime moments in a way that lasts forever. Choosing a photographer solely based on price rather than connection and style often leads to disappointment.
2. Be Clear on What You Want (And What Your Photographer Offers)
Not all photographers offer the same services. Some specialize in elopements, while others focus on multi-day destination celebrations. Some guide couples into perfectly posed portraits, while others (like me) take a more documentary, storytelling approach with minimal direction.
This week, I received an inquiry for an elopement. While I love intimate weddings, I don’t offer elopement packages because my work focuses on capturing full wedding weekends and immersive experiences. Beyond that, the bride didn’t provide a link to the Airbnb where she planned to have the ceremony. Without knowing the space, lighting, and overall aesthetic, I had no way to gauge whether it aligned with my style or if I could create the kind of imagery she admired in my portfolio.
This is where having a planner becomes invaluable. A great planner not only helps with logistics but also ensures that your vision aligns with the right vendors, locations, and overall execution. They consider the details that make for stunning photography—like lighting, timing, and the flow of the day—so you don’t have to.
Venues are typically a better fit for my approach because they are intentionally designed for weddings. They provide curated settings, thoughtful lighting, and structured layouts that enhance the storytelling element of photography. In contrast, an Airbnb—while beautiful—can be unpredictable in terms of lighting, space, and functionality for a wedding celebration. A planner helps navigate these challenges and ensures that every detail is thoughtfully curated.
💡 How to Avoid This Mistake: When looking for a photographer, make sure their services align with what you need. If you're considering a non-traditional venue (like an Airbnb or private home), work with a planner to ensure it’s logistically sound and visually aligned with your dream aesthetic.
✨ Pro Tip: If you want editorial-style storytelling photography, consider a venue with intentional design elements and natural light—and work with a planner who understands how to bring it all together seamlessly. It makes a huge difference in the final images!
3. Reach Out when You’re Ready to Book.
One of my dream inquiries this week was for a wedding at Neuendorf House—an architectural masterpiece in Spain that I would absolutely love to photograph. But here’s the catch: the couple wasn’t ready to book. In fact, they weren’t even sure when they were getting married.
While I completely understand that wedding planning is a process, reaching out too early—before you have a set date or a clear vision—can be premature. Photographers book out months (sometimes years) in advance, and we prioritize couples who are ready to move forward.
💡 How to Avoid This Mistake: Before reaching out, make sure you have a confirmed wedding date and at least a general idea of your venue/location. If you’re still figuring things out but love a particular photographer, follow them on social media and engage with their work until you’re ready to move forward.
✨ Pro Tip: If you’re in the early stages but absolutely want a specific photographer, send a short message to express your interest and ask about their availability for your estimated timeframe. Just be clear that you’ll be in touch when you have final details!
4. Understand the Experience You’re Investing In
Photography isn’t just about the final gallery—it’s about the entire experience. I work with couples who value authenticity, design, and storytelling. They don’t just want a photographer; they want someone who seamlessly integrates into their wedding weekend, captures the moments they didn’t even realize were happening, and delivers a gallery that looks and feels like an editorial feature.
If you’re just looking for someone to show up, take photos, and leave, I might not be the right fit—and that’s okay. But the couples who get the most out of working with me are the ones who value the experience as much as the final product.
💡 How to Avoid This Mistake: When choosing a photographer, consider what kind of experience you want. Do you want someone who gives lots of direction, or do you prefer a more natural, documentary approach? Do you want a photographer who blends in with guests or someone who takes charge of every moment?
✨ Pro Tip: Ask your photographer about their approach and experience before booking. A great fit isn’t just about liking their photos—it’s about trusting their vision and process.
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Photography Match
The right photographer isn’t just someone whose work you admire—it’s someone whose approach, style, and process align with what you truly want.
This past week reminded me how important it is for couples to do their research, understand their priorities, and reach out when they’re truly ready to invest in their wedding photography. When you find the right match, the experience is seamless, the trust is there, and the result? Photos that feel like you, in the most beautiful and natural way.
If you’re planning a destination wedding and value storytelling, authenticity, and an editorial touch, I’d love to hear more about your vision. Reach out here to inquire about availability and get more details about working together.
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