How to Choose a Wedding Photographer Without Overthinking It

Choosing your wedding photographer can feel like one of the biggest decisions of the whole planning process. Then Instagram, Google and Pinterest get involved… and suddenly everything feels harder than it needs to be.

Here’s the truth: most couples don’t need to overthink this anywhere near as much as they do. They just need to ask the right questions... and find someone who actually fits the day they want to have.

Stop Comparing Everyone at Once

If you’re looking at ten photographers at the same time, everything starts to blur. Styles mix together. Opinions get louder. Doubt creeps in.

Instead, shortlist two or three photographers whose work you genuinely connect with. Not because they’re popular. Not because someone told you to. But because when you look at their photos, you can imagine yourself in them.

That’s exactly how most of my couples describe finding me... they say the photos feel natural, unforced, and like the day they’re hoping to have.

Decide How You Want Your Day to Feel

Before you message anyone, ask yourselves this:

Do we want our day to feel relaxed?
Calm?
Fun?
Emotional?
More about the party than the poses?

Your photographer should fit the atmosphere you’re trying to create, not control it.

My approach is calm and documentary. I don’t interrupt moments, I don’t over-direct, and I don’t turn your wedding into a photoshoot. I let the day unfold and quietly capture what’s actually happening... the nerves, the laughter, the chaos, and everything in between.

The Personality Test

This matters more than most couples expect.

You’ll spend more time with your photographer on your wedding day than almost anyone else. If the thought of being around them all day makes you feel tense, it’s not the right fit - no matter how good the photos look.

My couples often say one of the biggest reasons they booked me was because they felt at ease from the first conversation. No pressure, no awkward sales chat... just a proper, human conversation about their day.

Ask the Uncomfortable Questions

Don’t hold back on the practical stuff:

• What happens if you’re ill?

• How do you handle difficult weather or tricky light?

• What do you do if we hate having our photo taken?

I’ve photographed weddings in sideways rain, blazing sun, candlelit barns and dark city venues... and I always arrive with backup plans, backup kit, and a calm head. If you’re nervous about being photographed, you won’t be the first, and you definitely won’t be the last. That’s part of my job.

Trust Your Instincts

At some point the noise fades and something clicks.

If the work feels right, the conversation flows easily, and you come away feeling excited instead of anxious - that’s your answer.

That’s how most of my couples describe the moment they decided to book: it just felt easy.

And your wedding planning should feel like that too.

If you’re planning your wedding and want to talk things through without pressure, I offer a free 30-minute consultation for all couples.

It’s just a relaxed chat about your plans, your venue, what matters to you, and how you want your day to feel... no awkward sales talk, no obligation, and no rush to decide anything.

If that sounds helpful, you can book your free consultation here:
[Book your free 30-minute consultation]