It might seem simple – see some wedding photos you like, book that person to do yours – but the wedding photography market is SO saturated at the moment that it’s actually a bit of a minefield for clients looking to get hitched. so – how to choose a wedding photographer?

Look at their photos!

• This might feel like an obvious one. But it’s easy to be blindsided by a good deal or one nice image, and you forget to check what the finished product will actually turn out like.
• For example, most photographers have their favourite photos, or what they consider their “best” images, and these are the ones you’ll see on their adverts.
• But as a wedding client, you’re paying to receive hundreds of photos from your big day – does the photographer maintain consistency of style throughout? Have they captured the little moments that make the day special and not just the big showpieces?
• Scout around their website for larger/longer galleries of images, or check their instagram too to see how much they throw out there and if you still like it. And ask to see a full gallery first as a representation of what you’d receive yourself.

Cheaper doesn’t always mean better value

Money, absolutely, is always a concern. And it’s understandable to be attracted to a photographer offering the whole world for a few quid. But photography is an expensive business to maintain, and when I see someone offering full day packages, all travel included, for that £200-£500 mark, my thoughts are:

• What gear are they using? Is it entry-level, and maybe not sufficient for the demands of shooting a wedding in 2024?
• Do they have the money/means to ensure files are backed-up properly?
• Are they fully insured, or is that a cost that has been cut?
• Are they actually invested in your big day? Or is it a quick few quid for them, meaning they don’t care in the end result?

That’s not to say all “cheap” photographers are unreliable – but these are my first thoughts when I see a deal that’s too good to be true. Do your homework!

What’s their style?

There are no right or wrong styles, but you know what you like. Some will go dark and moody. Others will go bright and sunny. Personally I go for fun and emotional! While all photographers say they’re candid – it’s the majority of the job – I get the unexpected or unplanned moments. So lots of shots of people laughing/crying/laughing-crying, or their kids playing, or hugs hugs hugs!

Other photographers will be experts in posing a couple. So if you want to spend a few hours being a supermodel – absolutely go for that style of photographer.

Personality!

This might be easy to overlook – your photographer is just a supplier, who cares what they’re like as a person? But you’re going to spend a LOT of time with them on your big day! At worst you don’t want someone with bad juju who stresses you out. And at best you get someone you like and is an extra guest with a camera!

You should be able to get someone’s vibe by how they brand themselves (for example I don’t shy away from presenting myself as being alternative, or laid-back, or scouse, or a music photographer too, etc etc) and have a feeling whether you’ll get on or not. Instagram feeds are a good way of seeing someone’s personality a bit more too. But the best way of knowing if you’re a good match with your photographer is…

…meet them!

It should be standard now that your photographer will be happy to meet up (in person or via videocall) and have a chat with you before a single thing is booked. You’re making a serious financial commitment, and they’re taking the pressure of a hugely important day in someone’s life. You all should get to know each other first! Are they how they come across online? Do they know what they’re talking about? It’s also a great chance to ask any questions you might have at this point too. But definitely get your chat on. And hopefully once you’ve done that you’ll know how to choose a wedding photographer!