How to Choose a Wedding Photographer (From a Husband and Wife Team Who’s Been There)
Choosing your wedding photographer can feel overwhelming, especially at the beginning of planning, when every decision feels big and permanent. You might be asking yourself where to even start, what really matters, and how to know if someone is the right fit for your day.
As a husband and wife photography and videography team, we’ve experienced weddings from both sides, behind the camera and in real life. We know how much trust it takes to hand over the responsibility of capturing a day that will never happen again. This guide is here to help you feel confident, informed, and excited as you decide who will document one of the most meaningful days of your lives.
Start With How You Want Your Day to Feel When You Look Back
Before looking at portfolios or price guides, pause and think about what you want to feel when you look back at your wedding photos years from now.
Do you want:
Real moments as they naturally unfold
A calm, steady presence on a busy day
Someone who notices the small, emotional in-between moments
Photos that reflect how the day actually felt, not just how it looked
Your answers matter more than any trending style or social media aesthetic. The best wedding photographer for you is the one whose work feels honest, consistent, and emotionally true.
Look Beyond the Highlight Images
It’s easy to fall in love with a perfectly curated Instagram feed, but when learning how to choose a wedding photographer, full galleries matter far more.
Ask to see a complete wedding gallery from start to finish. This shows you:
How they handle different lighting situations
Whether moments feel natural or overly posed
How consistently they capture emotion throughout the day
A strong photographer delivers quality from getting ready through the reception, not just during golden hour portraits.
Connection Matters More Than You Think
You’ll spend more time with your photographer than almost anyone else on your wedding day. If you don’t feel comfortable with them, it will show in your photos.
As a husband-and-wife team, we know how vital energy and communication are. Weddings are emotional, fast-paced, and unpredictable. Having someone by your side who feels grounded, encouraging, and genuinely invested makes a huge difference.
When you meet with potential photographers, ask yourself:
Do they listen more than they talk?
Do they understand what matters most to you?
Do you feel at ease being yourself around them?
Technical skill is essential, but trust and connection are what allow real moments to happen.
Ask About Experience, Not Just Years in Business
Experience isn’t just about how long someone has been shooting weddings; it’s about how they handle real situations.
A seasoned wedding photographer knows how to:
Adjust quickly when timelines shift
Photograph in harsh midday sun or unexpected rain
Stay calm when emotions run high
Step in when guidance is needed and step back when it’s not
We’ve documented weddings in all types of environments, from intimate backyard celebrations to large-scale events and destination weddings. That experience allows us to focus on what truly matters: telling your story without adding stress.
Understand What You’re Actually Investing In
When couples ask how to choose a wedding photographer, pricing often feels confusing. It’s important to understand that you’re not just investing in hours of coverage.
You’re investing in:
Planning and communication before the wedding
Professional-grade equipment and backups
Years of experience and creative vision
Thoughtful editing and delivery
Someone who will show up fully present for your day
Your wedding photos will become family heirlooms. They are one of the few things that last long after the day is over.
Trust Your Instincts
After you’ve done your research, viewed galleries, and had conversations, trust your gut.
The right photographer won’t just check boxes. You’ll feel confident in them. You’ll feel understood. And you’ll feel excited to have them alongside you on your wedding day.
That feeling matters.
From Our Perspective
We built JTR Media around connection, storytelling, and trust. As a husband-and-wife team, we work seamlessly together, bringing two perspectives into a cohesive experience. We know how meaningful these moments are, because we value them deeply in our own lives.
If you’re in the early stages of planning and wondering how to choose a wedding photographer, we’d love to be a resource for you, whether you end up working with us or not.
Let’s Talk About Your Day
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who values real moments, thoughtful storytelling, and a calm, supportive experience, we’d love to connect. Reach out to start a conversation and see if we’re the right fit for your wedding day!