Wondering how to hire a wedding photographer? Then this is the perfect guide for you!

Today, I’m welcoming a guest writer! Meet Sarah Blessinger, the owner and designer at Kindred Weddings and Events. Her company offers wedding design and coordination to Los Angeles couples who desire an intimate wedding. Sarah has tons of good advice to share, so take a read!

So you want to know how to hire a wedding photographer? I’ve got the perfect advice for you!

As a wedding planner in Los Angeles, I’ve partnered with many photographers over the years and learned how to spot a tried and true wedding photographer amongst the crowd. 

In this blog, I’m sharing 5 tips of what to look for in a wedding photographer to help you hire the best vendor team for your wedding!

Tip #1: Look for a diverse portfolio – but ultimately a focus and a good eye for weddings

Firstly, note that photographers come from many different backgrounds. Some of them get degrees in lifestyle photography. Some have spent years traveling, documenting around the world. And, some just picked up a camera and had raw, natural talent!

You may see one amazing wedding photo that catches your eye, and think “I’ve got to have that photographer do my wedding!” It’s a good idea to first look at the photographer’s entire portfolio before hiring them to photograph your wedding day. 

It’s possible they got really lucky with the timing, framing, and editing of one photo. Maybe they haven’t photographed weddings in 15 years. You must see a range of images from a photographer, so ask for a few full wedding galleries before booking!

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Tip #2: Get recommendations from vendors to make sure the photographer has a good track record

Nothing can hurt a wedding vendor more than a bad track record. Being respectful of other vendors, being a good team player, and showing up on time goes a long way. Most vendors get their clients through referrals whether from past clients or other vendors. 

If you are searching for a photographer, start with your venue and wedding planner. Ask if they have a preferred vendor list for photographers. A vendor who has worked at your venue will know the house rules and may already know the best onsite locations for pictures.

A photographer needs to work seamlessly with many vendors on your wedding day. They need to coordinate with videographers, allowing each to capture moments without being in each other’s way. Photographers must collaborate with wedding planners on the timeline and make sure there is time for family photos. The photographer must also get creative with the happy couple while keeping dinner service on time for the guests. 

Tip #3: Find a spirit that resonates with you and gets who you are

Just like when you met your significant other and felt a magical spark, you should also feel something electric when you meet the perfect vendors! Your photographer is going to be with you for about 90% of your wedding day. From getting ready in the morning until your epic dance party, your photographer is there. It’s important to make sure their vibe and approach fits with your vision.

I felt so respected when our wedding photographer sat down with us pre-wedding and ask us about what we were looking forward to and what we were nervous for. Her calm and reassuring nature sealed the deal for us! We had a cocktail-style wedding so our guests could socialize without the spotlight always being on us. Our photographer was on board and never made us feel like we needed to change our day to fit her agenda.

Tip #4: Look for a sense of respect for your boundaries and communication style

As a wedding planner, I see many preferred communication styles as I work with clients. Your photographer should clarify expectations for the working relationship as you move closer to your wedding. Setting clear expectations allows both parties to feel heard and respected during the planning process and on the wedding day. 

Let your photographer know if there are certain aspects of the wedding you just don’t want to deal with. In fact, you can refer them to your wedding planner for coordinating the logistics. 

Tip #5: Make sure they have a desire to educate and don’t leave you hanging

A wedding photographer has spent countless hours practicing and learning to create the best product for their clients. And it shows when they pour into their couples and share that knowledge. 

You should hire a photographer who puts education at the forefront of the relationship. An educated couple can rest easy knowing their decisions were made with their needs being heard. 

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When it comes to the wedding timeline, a good photographer will tell you how much time will be needed for family photos and the best time for natural light at an outdoor venue. They will also have resources for your engagement shoot. They will tell you how to dress your best, where to take engagement photos, and how to relax and feel comfortable while having these intimate photos taken. 

Finally, photographers are an amazing guide to encourage you to be the best version of yourself on your wedding day. An engagement session is not only fun, but gives you an idea of how you feel about being the subject of attention. Your photographer’s job is to get you to relax and be yourself in front of the camera, in turn allowing you to be yourself in front of those you love dearest. 

Okay, WOW! Isn’t Sarah just the best? So full of helpful insight on what you should look for in how to hire a wedding photographer! Highly recommend you take a look at her work, because she will serve you well.

About Sarah: Sarah Blessinger is the owner and designer at Kindred Weddings and Events, a wedding design and coordination company in Los Angeles serving couples who desire an intimate wedding. Her specialty is crafting sophisticated weddings for clients, where they get to be a guest at their own wedding. She loves sipping tea, snuggling with her cat River, and watching sci-fi/fantasy shows with her hubby. 

Looking for more advice? Check out the one question you should ask any wedding photographer BEFORE you book!