how to choose the best wedding photographer for you
So, you're on the hunt for a wedding photographer, and suddenly, it feels like there are A MILLION OPTIONS out there.
How on earth are you supposed to find THE ONE — the photographer who will capture every perfect moment, exactly the way you want?
Don’t worry!
I’m Martina, an LGBTQ+ wedding photographer based in Copenhagen, Denmark, and I’m here to help you NAVIGATE THIS PROCESS like a pro.
ask around
Start by tapping into your network.
Do you have friends or family who recently got married? Ask them about THEIR EXPERIENCES with their photographers — what they loved, what could have been better, and anything else they wish they’d known beforehand.
This will give you a solid idea of what YOUR OWN NEEDS and wishes are, and help you avoid any potential risk.
find your photography style
If you know what you’re looking for, it’ll be easier to find the right person for the job.
You need to figure out what kind of PHOTOGRAPHY STYLE for you. Do you love those moody, dramatic shots, or are you all about the light and airy vibes? Do you want to feel like a fashion model or you’re into candid photos and you’d prefer a more documentary approach?
Every photographer has THEIR OWN UNIQUE STYLE, and their portfolio is your sneak peek into what your wedding photos might look like.
For example, a photographer who’s a pro at capturing romantic, shadowy images might not be the best fit if you want bright, sun-soaked photos. In the same way, a photographer that’s amazing at capturing candid shots might not be the best at posing people.
So, when you’re scrolling through portfolios, make sure YOU’RE VIBING WITH THEIR STYLE.
Trust me, it’ll make a world of difference in how your photos turn out.
set your budget
Let’s talk money. How much are you willing to spend on your wedding photographer?
KNOWING YOUR BUDGET UPFRONT will help you narrow down your options and save you from falling in love with a photographer who’s way out of your price range.
Remember, wedding photography is an INVESTMENT. These photos are going to be your memories for life, so it’s worth spending a little more to get someone who will nail it.
But also, don’t stress — there are amazing photographers out there for every budget.
look on social media
Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest are goldmines for discovering talented photographers.
Just search HASHTAGS related to weddings, like #weddingphotography or #LGBTwedding, and start browsing.
Check out the accounts of WEDDING VENUES and blogs, too — they often tag photographers who’ve worked there, giving you a solid lead on someone who’s familiar with your location.
ask your photographer a full gallery
Here’s the SECRET: photographers showcase their best work on their websites.
ONLY their best work.
So, it’s a smart move to ASK for a full gallery from a recent wedding. This will give you a better sense of HOW THEY PERFORM throughout an entire event, not just in their highlight images.
If you’re planning a specific type of wedding—like an evening ceremony — ask to see examples that are similar to what you’re envisioning.
It’ll give you peace of mind that your photographer CAN DELIVER in any situation.
don’t take too long
The best wedding photographers book up FAST, especially during peak wedding season.
If you’re getting married during the summer or on a popular date, try to book your photographer AS SOON AS YOU CAN.
If your wedding is off-season, you might have a bit more wiggle room, but it’s still better to book early rather than scramble later.
Ready to start looking?
Now it’s time to START YOUR SEARCH! You can kick things off by checking out my portfolio — who knows, maybe I’m the perfect fit for your big day!
Good luck, and happy hunting! Your dream wedding photos are just a few clicks away.