Figure Out Your Wedding Photography Style to Find Your Wedding Photographer
In this post you will learn:
- How to figure out your wedding photography style
- How to find the right wedding photographer
- How to prepare for your wedding day
Introduction: The Importance of Wedding Photography
Your wedding day is one of the most significant events of your life, and your wedding photography should reflect that. It’s a day filled with love, joy, and unforgettable moments. As exciting as it is, it will also fly by faster than you can imagine. In the blink of an eye, it’s over, and while the memories may be vivid at first, with time, they can fade. This is where the importance of wedding photography comes in.
In St. Augustine, a city rich with history and stunning scenery, there’s no shortage of picturesque backdrops for your big day. Whether you’re saying your vows in front of the iconic Castillo de San Marcos or exchanging rings under the canopy of ancient oak trees, capturing these moments is essential. But wedding photography isn’t just about pretty pictures. It’s about capturing the essence of your love story, the fleeting emotions, and all the tiny details that make your wedding day uniquely yours.
Choosing the right wedding photographer ensures that these moments are captured in a way that resonates with your personality and style. Your photographer should not only have the technical skills to produce beautiful images but should also understand your vision and what’s most important to you on your big day.
Let’s explore how to prepare for wedding photography and how to choose a photographer who aligns with your vision.
Step 1: Defining Your Vision
Before you even start looking for a wedding photographer, it’s important to define your vision for your wedding day. Your vision is the foundation for every decision you make, from your venue and decor to your dress and photography style. Think about what kind of atmosphere you want to create and, more specifically, how you want that atmosphere to be captured in your wedding photos.
1.1. What Is Your Wedding Style?
Ask yourself, what style of wedding are you planning? Are you going for a romantic, fairy-tale vibe with lots of soft lighting, tulle, and florals? Or are you planning a chic, modern wedding with clean lines and minimalist decor? Your wedding style will directly impact the way you want your photos to look.
If you’re not sure what your style is, try creating a vision board. You can gather inspiration from wedding magazines, Pinterest, and even Instagram. Look for themes in the types of photos and weddings that catch your eye. This will help you hone in on the photography style that best suits your wedding.
1.2. Do You Prefer a Candid or Posed Style for your Wedding Photography?
Another key question to ask yourself is whether you prefer a more candid or posed style of photography. Some couples love the idea of perfectly staged shots where every detail is meticulously planned. Others prefer a more documentary-style approach, where the photographer captures natural, unposed moments as they unfold.
Neither option is better than the other, but it’s essential to know what you prefer before you begin your search for a wedding photographer. If you lean more toward candid photos, you’ll want to find a photographer who excels in capturing those in-between moments without being obtrusive. On the other hand, if you prefer posed shots, look for a photographer who can guide you through posing in a way that feels comfortable and natural.
1.3. Consider the Mood You Want to Convey
The mood of your wedding will also play a big role in your photography. Do you want your photos to feel light and airy, with soft, romantic tones? Or are you more drawn to moody, dramatic images with rich, deep colors? Knowing the mood you want to convey will help you communicate your vision to your photographer and ensure they capture your day in a way that aligns with your personal style.
Step 2: Choosing a Wedding Photographer Who Aligns with Your Style
Once you have a clear vision for your wedding photography, the next step is finding a wedding photographer who can bring that vision to life. This can feel like a daunting task because there are so many talented photographers out there, each with their own unique style and approach. But don’t worry—by following these steps, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect photographer for your big day.
2.1. Start by Browsing Portfolios
The best place to start when looking for a wedding photographer is by browsing their portfolios. Most photographers have a selection of their best work on their websites, showcasing their style and approach. Take your time going through these portfolios, paying attention to how the photographer handles lighting, composition, and color. Do their images resonate with you? Do they evoke the mood you want for your wedding photos?
Remember, it’s not just about pretty pictures. Look for consistency in the photographer’s work. A good wedding photographer should be able to handle a variety of lighting conditions and venues, from bright outdoor ceremonies to dimly lit reception halls. If you’re getting married in St. Augustine, for example, you might want to look for a photographer who has experience shooting in historic or outdoor venues.
2.2. Read Reviews and Ask for Recommendations
Once you’ve found a few photographers whose work you love, it’s time to dig a little deeper. Reading reviews from past clients is a great way to get a sense of what it’s like to work with a particular photographer. Were they professional, punctual, and easy to communicate with? Did they go above and beyond to make the couple feel comfortable? Did they deliver the final images in a timely manner?
You can also ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have recently gotten married. Personal referrals are invaluable because they come from people you trust, and they can give you insight into the photographer’s personality and working style.
2.3. Schedule Consultations
Once you’ve narrowed down your list to a few photographers, it’s time to schedule consultations. This can be done in person, over the phone, or via video call, depending on what’s most convenient for you. The consultation is your chance to ask questions, get to know the photographer, and make sure you feel comfortable with them.
Here are a few key questions to ask during your consultation:
- How do you approach wedding photography? Are you more hands-on, or do you prefer to stay in the background and capture candid moments?
- How do you handle unexpected challenges, such as bad weather or last-minute changes to the schedule?
- Can you walk me through your process from start to finish, from the engagement session to the delivery of the final images?
- What packages do you offer, and what is included in each package?
Most importantly, trust your gut. You’ll be spending a lot of time with your photographer on your wedding day, so it’s important to feel comfortable and confident that they understand your vision.
Step 3: Preparing with and for Your Wedding Photography
Now that you’ve chosen your wedding photographer, it’s time to start preparing for your wedding photos. Proper preparation can make a huge difference in how smoothly things run on the big day and will help ensure that you get the beautiful, timeless images you’ve been dreaming of.
3.1. Plan a Timeline with Your Photographer
One of the most important things you can do to prepare for your wedding photography is to plan a detailed timeline with your photographer. Your photographer will likely have experience building wedding day timelines and can help you figure out how much time to allocate for each part of the day.
Here are some key moments to consider:
- Getting Ready: Make sure you leave plenty of time for hair, makeup, and getting dressed. If you’re doing a first look with your partner, plan for that to happen after you’re fully ready.
- Family Photos: Decide ahead of time which family members you want in formal portraits, and communicate this to your photographer.
- Couple’s Portraits: You’ll want to set aside some time during the day for photos of just the two of you. This can be during golden hour (just before sunset) for the best natural light.
- Reception Details: Don’t forget to plan time for your photographer to capture all the beautiful details of your reception before guests arrive and start enjoying them.
Be sure to build in some buffer time, as things often run late on the wedding day. You’ll feel much less stressed if you have a little wiggle room!
3.2. Create a Shot List
While your photographer will likely have a good idea of the key moments to capture, it’s always helpful to create a shot list of any must-have photos. This can include things like:
- A specific family photo (e.g., a photo of you with your grandparents)
- A detail shot of a family heirloom (e.g., your grandmother’s necklace or your mother’s veil)
- Any special traditions or cultural elements that are important to you
A shot list ensures that nothing gets missed, but try to keep it concise. Too long of a list can limit your photographer’s creativity and ability to capture natural moments.
3.3. Communication is Key
One of the most important things you can do is communicate openly and honestly with your wedding photographer. Share your vision with them, and let them know what’s most important to you. Are there certain moments you absolutely want captured? Are there family dynamics they should be aware of? The more your photographer knows, the better equipped they’ll be to capture your day in a way that feels authentic to you.
Step 4: Wedding Photography Is an Investment, Not Just an Expense
Weddings can be expensive, and it’s natural to want to save money where you can. But when it comes to wedding photography, it’s important to remember that you’re making an investment, not just paying for a service.
Your wedding photos will be one of the only tangible things you have left from your big day. The flowers will wilt, the cake will be eaten, and the dress will be put away. But your photos will be with you forever, serving as a reminder of the love, joy, and beauty of your wedding day.
When budgeting for your wedding, consider the value of great photography. A professional wedding photographer doesn’t just snap pictures—they capture memories, emotions, and moments that would otherwise be lost to time. They have the experience, expertise, and equipment to deliver high-quality, timeless images that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Conclusion: Your Wedding Photographer Is Part of Your Big Day
Your wedding photographer is more than just someone who takes pictures. They are a storyteller, an artist, and someone who will be by your side on one of the most important days of your life. By taking the time to define your vision, choose the right photographer, and prepare for your photos, you’ll set yourself up for success and ensure that your wedding day is captured in a way that feels true to you.
In St. Augustine, where history meets beauty, finding the perfect photographer is an essential part of planning your wedding. Whether you’re getting married in the historic downtown, by the beach, or under a canopy of trees, your photographer should align with your vision and be able to capture the magic of your day. So take your time, ask the right questions, and remember that your wedding photography is an investment in the preservation of your memories.
Contact me Today
Hi! I am Phavy, a traveling photographer based in St. Augustine, FL. If you’re looking for a photographer, I encourage you to contact me to discuss your wedding day! No matter where your wedding may be! I serve the St. Augustine area, and travel all over for weddings.
Phavy Photography (phavyphotos.com)
Wedding Photographer in St. Augustine, FL
E-mail: contact@phavyphotos.com
Phone: 904-228-1350
Instagram: 904photographer
