Beautiful Wedding Photos and a Chill Wedding Photographer - How To Get Both!

1. Hire a photographer who has a portfolio of consistently beautiful images, taken in various locations.

When you’re choosing a photographer for your wedding day, one of the most important aspects is their photography style. If you value timeless wedding photos, look for a photographer whose style leans towards the classic and natural rather than overly trendy or overly edited shots.

Timeless wedding photos stand the test of time, not just because they’re aesthetically pleasing in the moment, but because they tell a story and capture raw emotion without being influenced by fleeting trends. A photographer who embraces natural light, soft color tones, and genuine moments will give you photos that you’ll want to hang on your wall for decades to come, rather than looking dated after a few years.

When reviewing photographer’s websites, check to see if they are showing both indoor and outdoor photos in a variety of lighting conditions. A photographer that shows only a very specific type of environment or weather in their photos may not be able to deliver the results you are hoping for if your wedding takes place in a different environment or different season.

2. Choose someone who prioritizes natural, candid moments.

One of the most beautiful aspects of wedding photography is capturing the genuine emotions and fleeting moments of the day—whether it’s the groom’s face when he sees his bride for the first time, or the laughter shared during speeches.

A photographer who is skilled in capturing candid moments without interrupting the flow of the day will give you photos that are full of life and authenticity. Look for a photographer who has experience in photojournalistic wedding photography, as they will be able to blend into the background and capture those precious, unscripted moments. These candid shots are often the most cherished and timeless, showing you and your loved ones at your most genuine and joyful.

3. Look for someone with a calm, relaxed presence.

The last thing you want on your wedding day is a photographer who adds stress to the mix. If you value a relaxed experience, look for a photographer who is not only skilled in their craft but also someone who can make you feel comfortable and at ease in front of the camera.

Your wedding day is filled with so many moving parts, and it’s crucial that your photographer creates a calm environment where you feel relaxed and confident. Your photographer should guide you through each shot with ease and help you focus on enjoying the day. A photographer with a calm presence will allow you to be present and fully immerse yourself in the joy of the day—so when you look at your photos, you see the genuine connection and happiness between you and your partner.

4. Experience with capturing details and personal touches.

Timeless wedding photos often include not just the big moments, but also the smaller details that make your wedding day unique. Whether it’s the heirloom jewelry passed down through generations, the intricate lace of your wedding dress, or the personal touches added to your reception, these little details tell a story of who you are as a couple.

Look for a photographer who is attentive to these special details, as they will add depth to your wedding album and bring those personal touches to life. A skilled photographer will know how to balance the close-up shots of rings, flowers, and decor with wider shots of the ceremony and reception, ensuring that your entire day is documented beautifully and cohesively.

5. The ability to be discreet yet present.

While you want stunning photos of your wedding day, you also don’t want a photographer who is constantly in your face or disrupting the flow of events. The best wedding photographers are discreet and unobtrusive, capturing photos without drawing attention to themselves or interrupting the day.

Look for a photographer who is able to anticipate key moments without being overly visible, allowing you to enjoy your ceremony, reception, and the company of your guests without distraction. Their ability to blend in and document the day with subtlety will result in more natural, relaxed photos that feel true to the spirit of your wedding.

6. A collaborative approach to your wedding day vision.

A good wedding photographer will work closely with you to understand your vision for your wedding day and discover what types of photos you value most. This is especially important if you value a relaxed experience—clear communication with your photographer, before and on the wedding day, ensures they understand the tone you want for your wedding and how they can best document it.

Sit down with potential photographers and discuss your ideas, whether it’s the mood you want to set for your portraits or the specific moments you want to be captured. A photographer who listens to your preferences, offers helpful suggestions, and adapts their approach to your unique needs will ensure that your wedding day feels like a seamless experience.

7. Great reviews and client testimonials.

To ensure you’re hiring someone who will provide both timeless photos and a relaxed experience, take the time to read reviews and client testimonials. Past couples can offer valuable insights into how the photographer works on the day of the wedding and how they interact with clients.

Look for photographers who have consistently received positive feedback about not just their photos, but their demeanor and ability to make couples feel comfortable and relaxed. A wedding photographer with rave reviews is likely to create the kind of stress-free, enjoyable experience you’re seeking.

8. A strong portfolio of timeless work, and multiple years of experience.

Of course, the most important thing to consider when hiring a wedding photographer is their portfolio. Review their past work to get a sense of their style, composition, and ability to capture both the grand and intimate moments of a wedding day. Look for consistency in the quality of their work and ensure that their photos align with the timeless aesthetic you're seeking.

A good portfolio will show the photographer’s ability to handle different lighting conditions, a variety of wedding venues, and a wide range of emotions. Be sure to ask for full galleries from weddings they’ve shot to get a real sense of what you can expect from beginning to end.

In the end, choosing a wedding photographer who values timeless photography and can provide a relaxed experience is about finding someone who understands your vision, makes you feel at ease, and captures the essence of your love and celebration in a way that will be cherished for generations. Take your time to research, talk to photographers, and trust your instincts. When you find the right fit, you’ll know that you’ve found the right person to trust with capturing your wedding day in the way that best reflects your desires.

If you're looking for a photographer who embodies these qualities, I would love to connect!