There is more to taking a good photo than having a fancy camera. It is similar to how a professional chef can take the same ingredients as I can, but create something way better. The person behind the camera, not the gear they're using, is what makes or breaks the photo.
But even if you know a very talented landscape/senior/family/baby/architecture photographer, please do not hire them for your wedding. While I'm proud of my very first weddings, my work has visibly improved with experience. Photographing weddings requires skills that any other type of photography simply does not. And experience with these niche events is indispensable.
Having a wedding professional give you more than great images. They give you peace of mind on a hectic day.
Weddings involve all your emotional, sweet, drunk, wild, excited friends and family
Not only does your photography need to be great at taking pictures, he/she needs to be great at dealing with people. Your wedding is the one chance you have to bring together everyone you care about most. That's awesome, but it definitely means there will be a lot going on! You want a vendor who is great at hoarding and directing large groups, managing tricky people situations, providing emotional support, and just treating everyone you love well!
Ability to thrive in all lighting situations
A lot of photographers can create great artwork when the conditions are all just right! But on a wedding day, you can't control the weather. If you have an experienced wedding photographer, they'll know how to make the best out of any situation!
Be sure that your photographer can handle low-light situations beautifully. Likely, the lights will be down for a large part of your reception, and it's incredibly tricky for less experienced photographers to take good images!
A professional wedding photographer has backup
There are rarely situations like weddings where there are no possible do-overs. Other niche of photographers have no need to have multiple cameras, multiple lenses, second shooters, and a backup plan for the worst! A professional wedding photographer knows how to prepare and deliver great images no matter what. No excuses.
You only have one chance
You're only getting married once. The events will happen so quickly and there are no do-overs. You have one chance so please have trust and confidence in your photographer. After the wedding day, your photos are the only thing you keep from your wedding. Your photos will help you talk about your life to your future generations. Make sure they do your love story justice.
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming! But I gotchu ;) After going to so many weddings as a photographer, I've got plenty of recommendations. I made a guide breaking down each part of the wedding day for all my brides. And the best part? I'll share it with you. Absolutely free! Click here
