Naturally, as a wedding photographer, choosing a photographer for my own wedding was the first thing I did after I said “yes!” I felt very strongly about finding someone who not only had a great portfolio and a style that I love, but also someone that I could get a beer with. Luckily, when Vaughan and I met Brett & Jessica for coffee (and a beer on a later occasion) we found that they were exactly those people! Their style is awesome and different and they are easy to talk to and just all-around fun people. Now that we’ve completed the engagement session with them and are anxiously awaiting our DVD in the mail, I’m still so happy with our decision and cannot wait to see them again in October!

(A shot that Jessica snapped of Brett taking our picture!)

So how can you find the perfect photographer for you? The very first thing is to check out lots of photographer’s portfolios. Try to figure out what style you like. Try searching on Pinterest for wedding photos and try to pinpoint the differences in the photos you like and the ones you don’t. Then take this knowledge and search for photographers in your area and narrow them down to the ones who have similar styles. (A great way to find local photographers is on wedding blogs like Style Me Pretty, Southern Weddings, and Green Wedding Shoes, among many others.)


The second thing I would do once you’ve narrowed down your list is find out if any of these photographers have a blog. If so, read as much of it as you can. This is going to be a great way to get to know them and find out if they might be a good fit for you. You can get a sense of their personality and how they post their photos. Check out the types of weddings they like to shoot. If most of their weddings are outdoor/DIY/rustic style weddings and your wedding is going to be glamorous and upscale, they may not be the best fit for you. An important thing to remember is that there are SO many photographers and you should find someone who is just as excited about your big day as you are! A photographer who loves the same things as you will have more fun shooting it and the photos will turn out much better!


Lastly, meet with them. Get a feel for the way they work. Ask questions: a LOT of them! Remember that this person will be spending a lot of time with you on your wedding day and if they annoy the crap out of you, that might not be someone you want anywhere near you while you’re trying to stay calm and happy :)

(Moose will be wearing a bow tie at our wedding!!)

I hope these tips help! Finding a photographer was a huge deal for me and it got a little overwhelming at first. Just take it step-by-step and have fun meeting some new people! If you have to go on 15 coffee dates before finding the right photographer, just look at it as a chance to meet some local people and drink some yummy coffee! Don’t settle, people! This person is creating a lasting memory for you! After the wedding is over, the cake is eaten, and the flowers have wilted, the photos are going to be around forever! Cherish them, have fun taking them, and look forward to showing your grandchildren one day! Eeeeek! I get so excited talking about this! Good luck, all of you newly-engaged peeps!