3 Tips on Finding and Booking a Wedding Photographer

When it comes to your wedding day, capturing those priceless moments is essential. Hiring the right wedding photographer can make all the difference in how your memories are preserved. From the emotion of the vows to the joy of the celebration, your photographer will be there to immortalize every moment. To ensure you choose the best wedding photographer for your big day, here are three essential tips by Soda Fountain to help you navigate the process.

Tip #1: Ask Them About Their Gear!

Before diving into portfolios and prices, start by asking your potential wedding photographer about the tools they use.

Why? Because a professional photographer’s equipment speaks volumes about their experience and preparedness for unexpected challenges. Here’s why it’s crucial:

Do They Have Dual Memory Card Slots?

Nearly all professional cameras today come with dual memory card slots. This feature provides a built-in redundancy system that ensures your wedding photos are safe. If one memory card fails, the other still has all the captured images. If the photographer doesn’t use a camera with dual memory slots, they may not be using professional-grade equipment, which can put your photos at risk.

Do They Use Multiple Camera Bodies?

A seasoned wedding photographer will typically have more than one camera body. Why? This allows them to switch quickly between different lenses, ensuring they don’t miss any key moments. Additionally, having a second camera acts as a backup if the first one malfunctions—because, on your wedding day, there’s no room for equipment failures.

What Type of Lighting Equipment Do They Have?

The type of lighting equipment a photographer uses is another crucial consideration. Wedding venues often have unpredictable lighting conditions. Whether it’s a dimly lit reception hall with dark ceilings or an outdoor venue at twilight, your wedding photographer should be equipped to handle it all. Photographers with off-camera flash solutions are able to enhance lighting beautifully, avoiding the harsh, direct flash. Some couples may prefer the more traditional flash, but knowing your options is essential.

Example of Professional Gear:

• Cameras: Nikon z9 and Nikon z6ii
• Lenses: Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8, Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8, Sigma 35mm f/1.4, Nikkor 85mm f/1.8
• Lighting: Godox v860iii (on-camera), Godox AD200pro (off-camera)

Asking about gear not only gives you insight into the photographer’s professionalism but also helps ensure that they’re ready for any conditions your venue may present.

Tip #2: Always Ask to See 2-3 Full Galleries

Portfolios are great, but they often only showcase a photographer’s best shots. To really gauge their skill level, ask to see full galleries from previous weddings. This will give you a more comprehensive look at their work and style. Here’s what to look for in these galleries:

Consistency in Editing

Does the photographer consistently maintain a cohesive style throughout the gallery? Are the photos edited uniformly, or do the color tones vary drastically from one image to the next? Consistency is key when it comes to preserving the atmosphere of your special day.

Lighting Across Different Conditions

Lighting can make or break a photograph. Check if the photographer can handle a variety of lighting situations—from bright midday sun to dim evening receptions. Their ability to control exposure in different settings shows their technical competence. Look for well-exposed images that transition smoothly from one environment to another.

Variety of Images

Does the gallery offer a mix of candid shots, detailed close-ups, and posed portraits? The variety in their work will show if they can capture a full range of emotions and moments throughout the day. A great wedding photographer tells a story with their images, rather than simply documenting the event.

Overall Style

The photographer’s style should resonate with you. Do their galleries have the same “feel” you envision for your wedding? Look at the emotions they capture, the mood they convey, and whether it aligns with your vision.

Have They Photographed Similar Venues?

If your venue has unique characteristics, such as grand architecture or specific lighting challenges, ask to see if the photographer has experience with similar locations. If not, request galleries from similar venues to see how they managed the setting. Whether you’re hosting your wedding at a historical estate or a sleek modern venue, the photographer’s adaptability is critical.

Tip #3: Meet Up!

There’s nothing more personal than your wedding photos, and it’s important to feel comfortable with your photographer.

Meeting up in person (or at least over Zoom or FaceTime) can help you gauge whether you connect with them on a personal level.

Why a Phone Call Isn’t Enough

A phone call won’t give you a sense of the photographer’s energy or personality. You need to meet in person (or via video) to see if you mesh well. Do they listen to your ideas? Are they enthusiastic about your vision? The photographer will be by your side for most of your wedding day, so you need to feel comfortable around them.

Building a Relationship with Your Photographer

Building a rapport is important. The better your relationship with your photographer, the more natural and comfortable your photos will look. A great photographer will go beyond just clicking the shutter—they’ll capture authentic moments that reflect who you are as a couple.

For instance, I love to meet potential clients over a slice of pie! It’s a great way to relax and discuss your wedding vision while getting to know each other. My personal favorite is key lime pie, and I’ve been itching to try Winston’s Pies in LA—any takers?

Frequently Asked Questions