Planning your wedding is an exhilarating journey filled with choices, from venues and flowers to dresses and menus (and probably a few late-night Pinterest binges). But, one of the most important decisions you make is your wedding photography. After all, your wedding photos are what you’ll have to treasure your special day for years to come! These photos should reflect not only the love you share but also your unique style as a couple. That’s why we’re here to guide you on how to choose the perfect wedding photographer for your style!
Hi, we’re Maggie and Amber—a best-friend photography duo based in Cincinnati, Ohio, with a passion for capturing love stories both locally and around the globe. We specialize in blending editorial and documentary styles to provide timeless yet authentic wedding day coverage. Over our 12 years of experience, we’ve learned that finding the right wedding photographer isn’t just about skill—it’s about connection (because we will be spending A LOT of time together). So let’s dive into how you can find the perfect fit for your big day.
Understand Your Photography Style Preferences
Your wedding day is one of the most significant moments in your life. It’s filled with love, emotion, and cherished memories you don’t ever want to forget. Choosing the right photographer is crucial to preserving these moments, and understanding your photography style preferences is the first step in learning how to choose the perfect wedding photographer.
Documentary vs. Editorial Wedding Photography
When you start searching for a wedding photographer, you’ll likely encounter terms like “documentary” and “editorial.” Understanding these styles can help you decide which one aligns best with your vision.
- Documentary Photography: Also known as photojournalistic photography, this style captures candid moments as they naturally unfold. It’s all about telling the story of your wedding day in an authentic, unfiltered way—think spontaneous laughter, emotional embraces, and the joy of your celebration without direction or staging. This style is perfect for couples who value a genuine, narrative-driven approach to their photos.
- Editorial Photography: Inspired by high-fashion magazines, editorial photography is dramatic, posed, and polished. Photographers use creative lighting, composition, and styling to produce images that are visually stunning and artistic. If you envision a wedding album that looks like it belongs in a luxury bridal magazine, this style might be for you.
Want to learn more about these styles and see examples? Check out our blog post on Editorial and Documentary Wedding Photography here.
Finding the Right Balance
Many photographers, like us, combine elements of both styles to provide a well-rounded wedding day experience. While posed, editorial-style portraits add elegance and sophistication, candid documentary-style shots ensure the authenticity of your emotions and moments shine through.
By understanding what you love most about each style (maybe it’s the candid laughter and the swoon-worthy portraits), you can choose the perfect wedding photographer who matches your vision. Whether you lean toward editorial elegance, documentary authenticity, or a blend of both, your photos should reflect your unique style as a couple.
Research Local Cincinnati Wedding Photographers
Once you’ve identified your preferred photography style, the next step is to explore Cincinnati wedding photographers who align with your vision. Finding the right photographer is about more than just the beautiful images they take—it’s about ensuring they understand your style, capture your story authentically, and make you feel comfortable throughout the process. Here’s how to get started:
Look at Portfolios
The first step to choosing the perfect wedding photographer for your style is to review portfolios. Browse photographers’ websites and social media profiles to get a sense of their work. Look for:
- Consistency: Are their photos consistently high quality, regardless of the venue or lighting conditions?
- Lighting and Framing: Do they use light creatively and frame shots in a way that resonates with your vision?
- Emotional Connection: Do their photos evoke emotion? A strong portfolio will tell a story and make you feel something, even if you weren’t part of the wedding.
A diverse portfolio is also a good sign. It shows that the photographer can adapt to different settings, whether it’s a moody winter wedding in a historic venue or a bright summer celebration in a park.
Read Reviews
Online reviews provide valuable insights into a photographer’s professionalism, personality, and ability to deliver. Look for testimonials that highlight:
- How they made couples feel comfortable in front of the camera.
- Their ability to capture both big and small moments.
- Their responsiveness, organization, and overall service.
If couples frequently mention feeling at ease and loving the results, that’s a great indicator you’re on the right track!
Explore How Each Photographer Photographs at Cincinnati’s Unique Venues
Cincinnati boasts a wide variety of stunning wedding venues, from historic landmarks downtown to scenic parks, elegant rooftop spaces, and charming industrial-chic warehouses. As you research local Cincinnati wedding photographers, consider how they showcase the city’s unique backdrops. Are they capturing the essence of the venue and using it to enhance the couple’s story? Whether you’re tying the knot at a classic estate, an industrial-chic loft, or a picturesque outdoor location, the right photographer will bring the setting to life in your photos.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to choosing the perfect wedding photographer for your style. Take your time, do your research, and trust your instincts—after all, these photos will be cherished for a lifetime!
Dreaming of a European-inspired wedding without leaving Cincinnati? Discover the Top 5 Cincinnati Wedding Venues That Transport You to Europe.
Schedule Consultations to Find the Right Personality Fit
Your wedding photographer will be by your side for one of the most memorable days of your life, capturing intimate moments, joyous celebrations, and everything in between. That’s why finding someone you genuinely connect with is just as important as loving their portfolio. A consultation is the perfect opportunity to ensure their personality, communication style, and approach align with your needs.
Questions to Ask During Consultations
The right questions can help you get a clear picture of whether a photographer is a good fit for your wedding day. Here are a few to guide your conversation:
- How would you describe your photography style?
- What happens if you get sick or have to cancel?
- Can we see full galleries from previous weddings?
- What is your approach to capturing candid moments?
- How do you handle challenges like bad weather or tight timelines?
Trust Your Instincts
During your consultation, focus on how the photographer makes you feel. Are they attentive to your ideas? Do they seem genuinely excited about your wedding? It’s essential to feel comfortable expressing your vision and trusting them to bring it to life.
The best photographers have a calming presence and can put you at ease in front of the camera (because no one wants to feel awkward or stiff during their wedding photos!). If you’re someone who feels nervous about being photographed, look for someone who is patient, encouraging, and able to guide you with ease. They should make the experience enjoyable and fun, not stressful or overwhelming.
By asking the right questions and trusting your instincts, you’ll not only choose the perfect wedding photographer for your style but also gain a partner who feels like a natural extension of your day.
Review Packages and Understand What’s Included
Once you’ve found a photographer whose style and personality align with yours, it’s time to dive into the details of their offerings. Understanding what’s included in a photography package ensures there are no surprises and helps you make an informed decision. Here is what to look for:
- Number of hours of coverage
- Number of photographers included/is there an upcharge for second shooters
- Delivery timeline for full gallery
- Options for prints, albums, or other keepsakes
- Travel fees (if applicable for destination weddings)
Focus on Value Over Price
While it may be tempting to go for the most budget-friendly option, remember that wedding photography is an investment. An experienced photographer will not only capture stunning images but also provide invaluable peace of mind on your wedding day. Their ability to anticipate moments, adapt to challenges, and deliver consistent quality is worth every penny.
Ready to Choose the Perfect Wedding Photographer?
Your wedding day deserves more than just a photographer—it deserves someone who can beautifully capture your love story, your style, and the emotions that make your celebration uniquely yours. Choosing the perfect wedding photographer means finding someone who can transform fleeting moments into lasting memories, so you can relive the laughter, joy, and love of your special day for years to come.
At Kindred Light Studios, we specialize in crafting timeless wedding galleries that feel authentic, elegant, and uniquely you. With over 12 years of experience photographing weddings in Cincinnati and destinations like Italy, we understand how to balance candid moments with stunning editorial portraits that showcase your love story in its best light.
Let’s create something unforgettable together. Inquire with us today to see if we’re the perfect fit for your wedding vision, and be sure to follow us on Instagram for more wedding inspiration and behind-the-scenes moments. Your dream wedding photos are just a conversation away!
