27/04/2026
We still receive quite a few enquiries about wedding photography. While we’ve now stepped away from that side of the business, we always want to help the couple choose a wedding photographer they will be happy with. Usually this means writing a list of advice each time someone asks. So I thought it would make more sense to put together one clear set of tips. This may change and is only from our experience. Please feel free to copy and send to anyone.
I will also add the list of formal group shots that we used to offer to help people decide what groups they wanted.
And yes, I have made infographics again. I plan to be outside for the rest of the day! Katrina Davies
How to Choose the Right Wedding Photographer for You
1. Look at full wedding galleries
Anyone can show a few great shots. What matters is consistency across the whole day, from prep, to the service, the groups, the speeches and the first dance.
Tip: Ask to see at least 1–2 complete weddings.
2. Choose a style you genuinely love
Styles vary hugely—documentary, traditional, fine art, editorial.
Tip: If you don’t love the style, you won’t love your photos.
3. consider the balance of experience and price
Weddings are unpredictable—changing weather, tight timelines, tricky lighting, emotional moments that happen once.
Tip: You’re not just paying for photos—you’re paying for experience and reliability. A new photographer might be brilliant and cope well with a challenging situation. They might not. Experience means a lot.
4. Meet them
Make sure you actually like the person enough to share your day with them. Your photographer will be with you more than almost anyone else on the day. You need to have some degree of rapport with them.
Tip: If they put you at ease, it will show in your photos.
5. Check reviews—but read between the lines
Look for comments about professionalism, communication, and how they handled pressure.
Tip: “Lovely photos” is good. “Kept us calm when everything went wrong” is great.
6. Ask about backup plans
A professional should have backup cameras, insurance, and a plan if they’re ill.
Tip: This is a once-in-a-lifetime day, there’s no reshoot.
7. Understand what’s included
Not all packages are equal—coverage time, albums, second shooters, editing, delivery.
Tip: Make sure everything is clearly agreed, in writing if preffered.
8. Pay attention to low-light work
Evenings, receptions, and indoor ceremonies can be challenging.
Tip: If their low-light work isn’t strong, your evening photos may disappoint.
9. Don’t leave it too late
Good photographers often get booked 12–24 months in advance.
Tip: If you like someone’s work, book them as soon as you can.
10. Trust your instincts
If something feels off—pricing, communication, or attitude—pay attention.
Tip: You should feel confident, not uncertain.
11. Think long-term, not just “the day”
Your wedding photos become more valuable over time.
Tip: Choose someone whose work will still feel right in 10–20 years.
FORMAL WEDDING GROUPS
Bride and groom
Bride and groom and children
Bride, groom and bride’s parents
Bride, groom and groom’s parents
Bride, groom and both sets of parents (Consider other versions such as partners, step parents etc)
Bride, groom and grandparents
Bride on her own
Bride with bridesmaids
Bride & groom and bridesmaids
Bride & groom, bridesmaids and all men in wedding suits (consider this with mums of newly weds)
Bride & groom and all men in wedding suits
Groom with men in suits
Bride, groom and Brides immediate family
Bride, groom and grooms immediate family
Bride, groom and friends
EVERYONE
Bride and groom on their own at chosen locations
