7 easy steps to book your wedding photographer
Planning your wedding should feel exciting not overwhelming! But with all the moving parts, it’s easy to get stuck trying to figure out where to start. Your wedding photos will be the ones you treasure forever, so choosing the right photographer matters. Follow these 7 easy steps to find someone who gets your vibe, captures your best moments, and makes the whole experience joyful from start to finish.
1) Start Early — Like Really Early
Top photographers get snapped up fast especially during peak wedding seasons. Don’t wait until the last minute or you might miss your dream shooter! Ideally, begin your search about a year before your wedding date so you have time to explore, ask questions, and compare options.
Pro Tip: If you already know your venue and date, that’s the perfect moment to start hunting for talent!
2) Know What Style You Love
Do you swoon over candid laugh‑out‑loud shots? Or maybe you’re more into soft, romantic portraits with dreamy light? Defining your photography style will help you quickly narrow down who feels like the right fit. Explore Instagram feeds and websites until you find a look that makes you say “yes, THIS is us!”
3) Do Some Detective Work
Ask friends for recommendations, scroll through local hashtags, and browse blogs to build a shortlist of photographers you want to learn more about. Check out their galleries, read reviews, and see how they capture different kinds of weddings. This research phase will save you time and help you feel confident in your choices.
4) Peek Inside Their Portfolio
A highlight reel is great, but you want to dig a little deeper. Ask to see full wedding galleries so you can get a real sense of consistency and storytelling. Look for variety (ceremony, portraits, reception fun, detail shots) and see how they handle different lighting conditions and personalities.
5) Meet Your Top Picks
Once you’ve narrowed things down, schedule a call or coffee date to meet in person (or Zoom!). This is your chance to talk about your vision, ask questions, and see if you click. If your photographer feels like someone you could hang out with all day that’s a bonus!
Here are some great questions to ask:
Have you shot at our venue before?
Can we see a full wedding album from start to finish?
How do you handle tricky lighting or unexpected moments?
6) Have the Price Talk
Talking about money might feel awkward, but it’s key. Wedding photography prices can vary widely, some photographers include multiple shooters, albums, or full-day coverage, while others offer just a few hours and digital files. Experience, style, gear, and editing time all factor into the cost.
Ask what’s included, clarify any extra fees, and understand the deposit and payment schedule. Remember: cheaper isn’t always better, you’re investing in memories that last a lifetime!
7) Make It Official
When you’ve found the one, lock it in! A signed contract and deposit secure your date and protect both of you. Typical deposits are somewhere around 20–40% of the total, and the contract should clearly outline what you’re getting and when you’ll receive your photos.
Wrapping It Up
Booking your wedding photographer can feel stressful at times as there are so many options, and chances are, this is your first time navigating the process. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Think of it as finding a partner in crime for your big day, someone who gets your style, celebrates with you, and captures the moments you’ll want to relive again and again. With a little planning, some curiosity, and these fun steps, you’ll be well on your way to locking in memories that last a lifetime.
Want to make sure every detail is covered? Check out my blog Ultimate Wedding Photography Planning Guide. For even more tips, feel free to shoot me a message and see how I can help you turn your wedding day into unforgettable memories!