Choosing a wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your big day. Your photos will be the lasting memories you cherish forever, so finding the right fit is essential. With so many photographers out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice!
Myself (Brittany Gauthier); Taken & edited by Blue Orchid Photography, Vaughn, ON
Ask for Full Wedding Galleries Before Booking
A photographer’s Instagram or website might be filled with stunning images, but those are often just the highlights. To get a true sense of their work, ask to see 2-3 full wedding galleries before booking.
I suggest asking for galleries before the consultation call. Why? Because you don’t want to fall in love with a photographer’s personality on the call, only to later realize their shooting style, editing, or gallery flow doesn’t align with your vision.
What to Look for in a Full Wedding Gallery:
The Date of the Galleries
Were any of the galleries recent? If they only send older weddings, ask to see a couple from within the last year. A photographer’s style and skill evolve, so you want to see their most up-to-date work.
Skin Tones & Editing Style
Do skin tones look natural? Or are they overly magenta, cool-toned, de-saturated, or orange? A photographer can have a unique editing style while still maintaining true-to-life skin tones. This also helps ensure your photos remain timeless!
The Content & Variety
What moments do they focus on? Are they capturing candids, details, and guest interactions, or is it mostly posed portraits? Do you see variety in the composition? How many black and white images vs. color? If you have strong preferences choose a photographer whose galleries already reflect that. For example, if you want natural, documentary-style wedding photos, you wouldn’t want a photographer whose portfolio is mostly editorial-style posing and flat-lay details and vice versa.
Styled Shoots vs. Real Weddings
Styled shoots are curated and controlled—often done in perfect lighting with designer details. While they can showcase a photographer’s creativity, they do not reflect the pace and unpredictability of a real wedding day or the photographer's ability with posing. If a photographer sends a styled shoot instead of real galleries, they should also be upfront about it.
Attention to Detail in Editing
Look at small but important editing details. Are distracting elements (exit signs, outlets, stray hairs, blemishes) cleaned up? A photographer’s attention to these details can make a huge difference in your final gallery.
Ask About Their Backup & Safety Measures
Your wedding photos are once-in-a-lifetime memories, so it’s crucial to choose a photographer who prioritizes file security and backup processes.
File Storage & Backup
How are they backing up your images?
Do they store images in multiple locations? (e.g., external hard drives, cloud storage)
Equipment & Backup Gear
What cameras are they using?
- Do they shoot with dual card slots? (This means photos are instantly saved to two memory cards for extra security.)
- Do they have backup cameras and lenses in case something malfunctions?
Insurance & Contracts
Are they insured? This is a must for professionalism and liability.
Do they have a clear contract outlining deliverables, turnaround time, and contingency plans?
What happens if they are unable to attend your wedding?
Experience Matters More Than You Think
For most couples, this is their first wedding—but photographers have been to countless weddings. Experience isn’t just about taking great photos; it’s about knowing how to navigate a wedding day seamlessly.
Why an Experienced Photographer is Invaluable:
✅ They understand the flow of the day and can anticipate key moments.
✅ They adapt to last-minute schedule changes without stress.
✅ They know how to handle challenging lighting conditions (dark churches, bright outdoor ceremonies, mixed lighting).
✅ They can manage multiple locations smoothly.
✅ They know how to keep family photos efficient and stress-free.
✅ They can offer guidance throughout the day, helping with things you may not even think about.
A seasoned photographer is more than just someone taking pictures—they’re a trusted guide, ensuring your day runs as smoothly as possible.
Final Thoughts: Trust Your Photographer
Once you've done your research, trust your choice! A great wedding photographer brings not just skill, but also confidence, problem-solving abilities, and a calming presence on your big day.
Need more wedding day tips? Check out my previous blog post on how to prepare for your wedding day!
If you’re looking for a photographer who captures natural, emotional, and timeless wedding photos—while also bringing years of experience to help make your day stress-free—I'd love to chat! Let’s create something beautiful together.
