Now that you’re engaged, the planning rabbit hole begins—and one of the first things you’ll see on every checklist is: find a wedding photographer. Cue the overwhelm. We get it. With so many styles, price points, and portfolios to scroll through, it’s hard to know where to begin.

We’re Carly and Kasey, and while we’d love to photograph your day, our goal here is to help you find the right photographer for you—even if that’s not us. Consider this your no-pressure, judgment-free guide to choosing a wedding photographer who will do your story justice.

Why Your Wedding Photographer Matters

Your wedding day is a whirlwind of emotion, detail, and fleeting moments. The right photographer helps you hold onto it all. More than just pretty photos, wedding photography is about trust, connection, and shared values. You want someone who sees your relationship for what it is—honest, joyful, unique—and captures it that way.

A skilled photographer blends technical expertise with emotional intuition. They know when to step back, when to gently guide, and how to anticipate the moments you’ll want to relive forever.

Get to Know the Styles

Wedding photography is not one-size-fits-all. Understanding the different styles can help you decide what feels most true to your relationship:

• Documentary/Photojournalistic – Candid, unposed, and full of emotion. Think genuine laughs, tearful glances, and natural movement.
• Fine Art – Dreamy and artistic, with an emphasis on composition, light, and intentional imagery.
• Editorial/Fashion-Inspired – Polished, directed, and often cinematic. This style leans into fashion-mag vibes.
• Classic/Traditional – Timeless and posed. Expect a mix of group photos, portraits, and key moments.

Most modern photographers blend a few styles, so don’t worry if you’re drawn to more than one—just make sure their portfolio reflects what you want to see in your own gallery.

What to Consider When Choosing Your Photographer

Here’s what actually matters when making your decision:

1. Budget Before you dive into photographer websites, get honest about what you can spend. Yes, photography is an investment—and a worthwhile one—but staying grounded in your budget will help you narrow the field.

2. Style + Vision Pay attention to what images move you. What feels like a reflection of your relationship? Find a photographer whose work makes you pause and think, “Yes, this feels like us.”

3. Experience Experienced photographers know how to adapt quickly, work in any light, and stay calm when things don’t go to plan. They’ve been through it all and bring confidence to your day.

4. Personality Fit You’ll spend more time with your photographer on your wedding day than almost anyone else—so chemistry matters! Do you feel relaxed and seen when you talk to them? That’s a good sign.

5. Reviews + Recommendations What do past couples say? Are they praising not just the photos but the experience? Word of mouth and testimonials speak volumes about how someone works behind the lens.

How to Actually Find Your Photographer

Start with these:

• Instagram + Pinterest – Use hashtags like #clevelandweddingphotographer or #adventureelopement to find people whose style resonates.
• Wedding blogs + directories – Sites like Junebug Weddings, Wandering Weddings, and Zola let you browse by style and location.
• Vendor referrals – Ask your planner, venue, or friends who they’ve loved working with.

Once you’ve found a few that feel right, reach out. Check availability, review their packages, and schedule a meeting.

Questions to Ask During Your Meeting

Don’t worry—this isn’t a test. But it is your chance to make sure you’re aligned:

• Are you available on our date?
• Can we see a full wedding gallery?
• How would you describe your shooting style?
• What’s your experience with our venue (or type of wedding)?
• What’s included in your pricing? Any travel fees?
• What’s your turnaround time?
• What’s your backup plan if something unexpected happens?

A Note on Pricing + Packages

Here’s a quick breakdown of what you might come across:

• Base coverage – Usually includes 6–8 hours, an online gallery, and edited high-res files.
• Add-ons – Engagement sessions, albums, second shooters, extra hours.
• Hourly options – Especially useful for elopements or smaller celebrations.
• Payment structure – Many photographers require a retainer to secure your date, with the remainder due closer to your wedding.

Transparency is key. Don’t be afraid to ask about what’s included and how it all works.

Final Thoughts

Choosing your wedding photographer is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about trust, vision, and shared values. If you feel comfortable, understood, and inspired after talking with someone, that’s a sign you’re in good hands.

And if you’re still not sure where to start, we’re always happy to offer guidance (no strings attached). This process should feel exciting—not stressful.

You’ve got this.

– Carly & Kasey Drzazga Photo