The Top Qualities to Look for When Hiring a Wedding Photographer

Your wedding day is a significant event that will be cherished forever. The photographs taken will serve as a tangible reminder of the precious moments shared with your loved ones. When choosing a wedding photographer, you want to make sure you’re hiring someone with the skills, experience, and personality to capture your big day in the way you’ve always dreamed of.

To help you make the right choice, here are some top qualities to consider when hiring a wedding photographer:

Lots of Experience and an Impressive Portfolio

First things first, you want a photographer who knows their stuff. Look for someone who has shot many weddings and has the experience to handle any situation that comes up. Experienced photographers are familiar with different lighting conditions, camera angles, and the best time of day for taking photos. They also have a knack for capturing candid moments and making them look stunning. 

Make sure to check out their portfolio to get a feel for their style and quality of work. You’ll want to see a consistent look throughout their photos, and make sure they’ve taken great shots in all kinds of lighting and settings. Don’t hesitate to ask to take a peek at some of their full galleries (this is key—ask to see a FULL gallery!). A good photographer will not mind. 

And… of course, a great photographer will also have happy clients who are more than willing to recommend them to you.

“Where do I even begin to tell y’all how AMAZING Kendra is??!!! Kendra is the best. She immediately puts you at ease and reminds you to soak up every minute of your wedding day. She will make your friend and family laugh the whole way through. Kendra is the kind of photographer that not only cares about capturing all of your special moments throughout your wedding day, but cares so deeply about her brides, that she herself, may shed a tear when the forecast suddenly changes and you can have your dream wedding outside!” – Kristen

Style that Matches Your Vision

Your wedding photos are a reflection of your unique style and personality, so it’s important to choose a photographer whose style matches your vision. Do you want your photos to have a traditional, posed look, or do you prefer a more candid, photojournalistic style? Do you want bright and airy photos, or moody and dramatic ones? Take a look at the photographer’s portfolio to get a sense of their style and aesthetic. If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, don’t be afraid to ask for their professional opinion. They can help you choose a style that fits your personality and wedding theme.

Friendly and Great at Communicating

Your wedding photographer will be with you throughout your special day, so it’s crucial to find someone with a personality that you vibe with. You want a photographer who is friendly, approachable, and easy to talk to. Someone who makes you feel comfortable and at ease in front of the camera, so you can focus on enjoying your day without feeling self-conscious. 

Communication skills are also important. You want a photographer who can listen to your ideas and bring them to life while offering suggestions and solutions along the way. Look for someone who is responsive to your questions and concerns and who will keep you informed about the photography process every step of the way.

Professionalism and Dependability

Your wedding photographer should be a total pro who knows how to handle anything that comes up. They should be punctual, organized, and ready for anything. A true professional will remain calm and collected, showing lots of grace and ease, no matter what happens, and make sure everything runs smoothly. You also want to work with someone who is dependable and reliable. They should deliver your photos on time and provide high-quality prints and albums. Look for a photographer who has a track record of professionalism and dependability and comes recommended by other couples and industry experts.

“There are many words that you could use to describe Kendra. She is extremely talented, energetic but most importantly, she is a friend. She is able to make us feel extremely comfortable in front of the camera while also feeling like the most important and beautiful people in the world. If you want someone who will ease your stress, make you feel the most important and want to have beautiful pictures, Kendra is your person!” – Madison

Flexibility and Adaptability

Weddings can be unpredictable, and your photographer should be able to handle anything that comes up. They should be flexible and able to adjust their plans as needed. Your photographer should be able to work in a variety of lighting conditions and be comfortable shooting in different locations. They should also be able to adjust to changes in the schedule or timeline and work with you to create a plan that meets your needs. Look for a photographer who is open to your ideas and willing to work with you to create the perfect wedding photos.

Attention to Detail

Another quality to consider when hiring a wedding photographer is their attention to detail. A good photographer should be able to capture every detail of your wedding day, from the intricate details on your dress to the flowers in your bouquet. They should have a keen eye for composition and be able to create stunning images that highlight the beauty of your wedding day. Look for a photographer who pays attention to the little things and can capture the moments that make your wedding unique.

“My husband and I knew amazing photography was a priority for our wedding, and as soon as we spoke with Kendra, we *knew* she was the photographer for us! Kendra is warm, bubbly, and one of the kindest people I have ever met. When you work with Kendra, you will get SO much more than just a wedding photographer – you’ll get a friend, a cheerleader, and an expert to provide guidance through the planning process!” – Alyssa

Passion and Enthusiasm

A passionate and enthusiastic photographer can make all the difference in your wedding photos. Look for a photographer who truly loves what they do and who is excited about capturing your special day. A passionate photographer will go above and beyond to create stunning images that you will treasure for a lifetime. They should be able to inspire you and make you feel confident in front of the camera. Look for a photographer who is genuinely excited about your wedding and who has a passion for capturing beautiful moments.

Equipment and Backup Plans

A professional wedding photographer should have high-quality equipment and backup plans in case of any unexpected issues. Look for a photographer who has top-of-the-line camera equipment and lighting gear to ensure that your photos look their best. They should also have backup equipment on hand in case of any technical difficulties (Trust me, I learned this lesson a looooong time ago). 

In addition, a good photographer should have a backup plan in case of inclement weather or other unexpected circumstances that may affect your wedding day. This is why I always carry umbrellas with me and I’m always thinking about alternative locations if needed!

Lastly, it’s pretty wise to hire a photographer who’s insured. You never know when something could happen, and a photographer who takes their business seriously enough will have insurance to cover random situations. Don’t be afraid to ask!

I hope these qualities help you choose the perfect wedding photographer for your big day! Remember, this is a special day that you’ll remember for years to come, and choosing the right photographer will make all the difference.

You may also be interested in reading:

• Getting Started with Your Wedding Photographer: What You Should Know
• 10 Ways Your Wedding Day Timeline Can Help You Relax