Let’s talk about something that’s often overlooked but absolutely essential when choosing a photographer...comfort. No, not the “oh, this couch is soft, I don't want to get up” kind of comfort—we’re talking about the “I can ugly cry in front of this person and they’ll still make me look fabulous” kind of comfort.
Hiring a photographer isn’t just about finding someone who can work a camera (spoiler alert: that’s the bare minimum). It’s about finding someone you click with—pun unintended but I will leave it in. Someone who’ll not only capture your big day beautifully but also make the entire experience enjoyable and stress-free.
Here’s why:
1. You’ll Spend A LOT of Time Together
Think about it: your photographer will be with you from the nervous morning prep through to the dancefloor shenanigans. If they’re not someone you feel at ease with, that’s a long day of awkward small talk and fake smiles. You need someone who feels like part of the gang, not an unwelcome wedding crasher. The right photographer will blend seamlessly into your day, capturing moments as they unfold naturally.
2. They’ll See You at Your Most Vulnerable
Your photographer will capture moments when you’re teary-eyed, sweaty, laughing so hard your mascara runs, or stuffing your face with cake (You won't be the only one). If you’re not comfortable with them, you might hold back, and that’s a recipe for stiff, lifeless photos. You want someone who can make you feel natural and relaxed, so your personality shines through. The best photos happen when you forget the camera is even there.
3. Comfort = Better Photos
When you’re comfortable, you’re confident. And confidence is the secret sauce to looking amazing in photos. A good photographer knows how to get you to let your guard down, so your pictures look effortless, not staged. Whether it’s cracking jokes, hyping you up like a personal cheerleader, or simply giving you space to be yourselves, the right photographer will make you feel like a star. This comfort translates into photos that genuinely reflect the joy and love of your day.
4. They’ll Handle the Chaos Like a Pro
Weddings are beautifully chaotic—think herding cats but with champagne and heels. A photographer you trust can handle last-minute changes, rowdy relatives, and even that one drunk uncle who won’t stop photobombing. They’ll keep their cool, so you can keep yours. When you have confidence in your photographer, you can let go of stress and focus on enjoying the day.
5. They’ll Understand Your Vibe
Every couple has a unique style and energy. Maybe you’re all about candid, natural shots, or perhaps you want something more dramatic and editorial. A photographer you gel with will get your vibe and bring it to life in their work. They’ll take the time to understand your story, your personalities, and what makes your love special. This connection is what sets apart biscuit cutter photos from images that truly capture the essence of your day.
6. It’s More Than Just Photos
The right photographer does more than take pretty pictures—they contribute to the overall experience of your wedding. They’ll offer words of encouragement when you’re nervous, keep the mood light when things get stressful, and even remind you to take a breath and enjoy the moment. They become part of the fabric of your day, adding to the memories rather than just recording them.
So, How Do You Find “The One” (Your Photographer, That Is)?
Stalk Them Online: Check out their portfolio, blog, and social media. Do their photos resonate with you? Do they seem like someone you could grab a pint with? Do you want those lovely intimate images they have taken to be of you and your friends and family?
Meet Them IRL (or Zoom): A quick chat can reveal if they’re your kind of person. If you’re laughing within five minutes, you’re onto a winner. Bonus points if they share your sense of humor or get excited about your wedding plans.
Ask for Testimonials: Past clients can provide insight into how the photographer handles themselves on the day. Were they professional, approachable, and easy to work with? If you hear glowing reviews, that’s a great sign.
Trust Your Gut: If something feels off, keep looking. This isn’t just a business transaction—it’s a relationship. And you wouldn’t settle for less than perfect in your partner, so why settle for less in your photographer?
Finding a photographer you’re comfortable with is essential. They’re not just taking pictures; they’re preserving memories. The right photographer will feel like an old friend, even if you’ve just met. They’ll put you at ease, hype you up, and handle your big day like a boss. The result? Gorgeous photos that feel 100% you. So, when you’re picking your photographer, don’t just look for someone who can shoot. Look for someone who gets you. Because a comfortable couple is a photogenic couple. And let’s face it, your wedding deserves nothing less than magic.
If you wanted you could start your research now by checking out my website and booking a no obligation chat you can do so via the links at the top. Happy hunting.