Wedding Tips


finding the best wedding photographer


lake wales wedding photographer

 

A couple shares an intimate kiss in front of lush greenery during an outdoor wedding ceremony.

 

the perfect photographer is important

 

 

Choosing your wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your big day. Photos are one of the only tangible things you walk away with from your wedding day. Your photos will be how you relive those memories for years to come, so it’s worth asking the right questions before you book. From style and experience to timelines and products, here are 10 key things every couple should ask to make sure their photographer is the perfect fit.

 

What is your photography style?

There are many different ways to capture a wedding: editorial, documentary, posed, traditional, and candid. When booking a wedding photographer you must find what speaks to you and the type of day you're wanting to have. The experience you have with your photographer is important; did you know you will spend more time with your photographer than your partner on your wedding day?

A bride and groom share an intimate moment outdoors, with the groom wearing a black cowboy hat and cream suit.
A bride in a white wedding dress holds a classic white bouquet while checking her reflection in an ornate mirror.
Romantic wedding couple shares intimate moments together in a series of delicate poses beneath flowing white veil.
A romantic wedding photo showing a couple kissing under a flowing white veil while holding a bouquet of white roses.

Can we see a full wedding gallery, not just highlights?



Of course every photographer's page is filled with the best images they've taken! It's important to see how they capture different moments, lighting, and families. If you ask, most photographers will happily share a full gallery so you can get a feel for their style and approach.

A bride in a white lace wedding dress walks down a brick path carrying a turquoise and white floral bouquet.
A romantic couple shares tender kisses while embracing outdoors in a field during their wedding photoshoot.
A bride in a lace wedding dress dances with a bridesmaid wearing a turquoise gown at an indoor venue.
Newlyweds perform romantic dance dip on outdoor brick patio under string lights during their first dance.

what are the differences between your packages?



Each photographer structures things differently and it's important to know what differences there are from package to package. Typically in larger packages you get more hours, images, and overall coverage of the day. Some even include prints, albums, and portraits!

A romantic kiss between newlyweds in a dreamy outdoor garden setting with soft natural light.
Wedding party in dark suits jumps joyfully in unison while posing for a candid outdoor photo session.
A bride and groom share an intimate embrace while dancing together at an outdoor wedding venue.
A bride in a lace gown poses in a golden sunlit field during sunset with her veil flowing in the breeze.

Do you work with a second shooter or assistant?



This isn't a make or break, but it's important to understand the differences in coverage if you have multiple quotes you are comparing. More people=smoother coordination, better photos, and overall a more favorable experience.

A romantic wedding couple shares intimate moment in golden sunlight as white veil flows gracefully in the breeze.
Bridesmaids wearing matching floral pink and white dresses pose together in an outdoor garden setting.
A series of romantic wedding photos showing tender moments between a couple in a rustic outdoor setting with floral bouquets.
Romantic wedding photo collage showing seven intimate moments between newlyweds in an outdoor garden setting at sunset.

What happens if you’re unavailable on the wedding day due to an emergency?



Emergencies are never what you hope for, but it's important to know your photographer's contingency plan! This is a huge reason it's important to book local. If your photographer is in the community, they're typically plugged in and have connections with other photographers.

A couple in wedding attire share romantic moments during golden hour in a series of candid outdoor shots.
Couple sharing a romantic kiss during their outdoor wedding under oak trees with a flowing white lace dress and veil.
A couple shares a romantic moment at sunset in an outdoor wedding ceremony with golden light filtering through trees.
A romantic scene at a white gazebo in a garden setting with spanish moss draped trees in the background.

How long will it take to receive our photos?



Every photographer has a different turnaround time! Another important thing to ask is if and when your photographer sends sneak peeks. You should also ask how many photos you will get back.

A couple in formal attire dances together at a dimly lit wedding reception venue with other guests in the background.
A romantic outdoor wedding photo with the couple sharing a tender moment amongst sunlit trees while holding white roses.
A happy couple in wedding attire shares tender moments while holding their baby in an outdoor setting with trees.
Wedding party wearing light blue bridesmaid dresses poses outdoors under sun-dappled trees in coordinated style.

Do you offer albums, wall art, or other print products in addition to digital images?



As a photographer, I take an all-inclusive approach. This means digitals, prints, and albums come with the package you choose! Your photos were never meant to live on a phone you may lose some day. Take advantage of my professional print packages.

A collection of outdoor rustic wedding photos showing the bride's lace dress details and floral bouquet in a natural setting.
Romantic view of a bride in a flowing lace wedding dress overlooking a scenic field with horses in the background.
A joyful wedding couple embraces outdoors under mossy trees, with the bride in white lace and groom in light blazer.
A bride in a flowing white lace wedding dress poses in front of a rustic wooden barn building during a photo session.

How do you handle difficult situations?

Whether it's low or dramatic lighting or family dynamics, you deserve to know how your photographer will manage situations that arise at your wedding. Know what your photographer's thoughts and approaches are before your big day.

A couple shares a heartfelt moment laughing together outdoors during a wedding photo session.
Group of groomsmen in matching beige jackets and black cowboy hats leaning against tree in casual outdoor setting.
A couple embraces in wedding attire with the bride in a white lace dress and groom in an olive suit outdoors.
A series of four candid photos showing bridesmaids dressed in white fluttering a wedding veil together in a getting-ready room.

Will you help with creating a photography timeline for the day?



This one is especially important if you don't have a planner! Most photographers offer assistance to ensure your day runs smoothly and all of the must-have photos are captured.