The day of your wedding comes faster than you could have imagined. You should cherish every moment but one thing is certain: you will want to relive the day forever. Making these moments tangible is the best way to get value from all that you have put into your wedding. We asked our team members and other professionals to share their advice on how to choose a photographer for your wedding.

Choosing the right wedding photographer is crucial to capturing the memories of your special day. With various photography styles available, it’s important to understand the differences to find the perfect match for your vision. Here, we explore four popular wedding photography styles and feature professional photographers who excel in each.

01 Traditional

The traditional style of wedding photography, or classic photography, is characterized by posed group shots and formal portraits. This style emphasizes crisp, clear images, and includes shots like the couple’s kissing, family portraits, and cake cutting. The traditional style of photography captures all significant moments in an elegant and timeless way, which is ideal for couples looking to document their wedding.

Why choose traditional photography?

• Your wedding photos should have a timeless and classic look.
• You will want to include all of the family members and important moments.
• Enjoy posing for formal portraits you will cherish for many years.

Documentary Style

The photojournalistic style, also known as documentary photography, is a way to capture candid and spontaneous moments during the wedding. This style is based on telling a story, and allows the emotions and interactions of the wedding day to unfold naturally without the photographer interfering. The result is an array of real and emotional images that capture the moment as it unfolded.

Why choose photojournalistic photography?

• You want a representation that is natural and authentic of your wedding.
• You enjoy the art of telling stories through candid photography.

Editorial No. 3

Fine art photography is a combination of artistic vision and wedding photography that produces stunning, dramatic images. This style is based on composition, lighting and creative techniques, resulting in images that are beautiful, but also unique works of art. Film and digital photography are often used by fine art photographers to create their unique look.

Why choose fine art photography?

• You enjoy artistic and visually stunning images.
• Your wedding photos should be original and artistic.
• You’re drawn to innovative compositions, and the use of color and light.

The Fourth Film

Film photography has experienced a revival in recent years. The process involves taking pictures on photographic film that is developed into physical prints. Film’s unique qualities, including its grain, color rendition and dynamic range, provide a distinct aesthetic, which digital photography cannot replicate. Film photography adds a timeless and nostalgic touch to wedding photos.

Why choose film photography?

• Films provide a timeless and nostalgic feel.
• Film’s artistic qualities, such as its grain and color depth, are something you appreciate.
• Your wedding photos should have a distinct, classic look that sets them apart from digital photography.

From the perspective of a bride

Photography by Redden Wood

Meet Lauren Ruark, the talented Associate Art Director at Artifact Uprising. With an impeccable eye for detail and a passion for visual storytelling, Lauren is not only an expert in her field but also a bride who cherishes her wedding photos. As someone who understands the nuances of visual storytelling, Andrea Sampoli offers couples heartfelt and practical advice on how to choose a wedding photographer who can perfectly capture the magic of their special day.

Tip 01: Find Your Style

Find a photographer whose style of photography is in line with your own. You can find inspiration pictures that match your style if you aren’t sure what you want. When making your final choice, don’t let too many people influence you. What matters is that you choose someone whose work resonates with you.

Tip 02: Prioritize Connection

You should choose someone who is compatible with your personality. This is especially important because there may be stress and high emotions on the big day. It’s also important to make sure that your photographer has worked well with other vendors such as videographers or wedding planners.

TIP 03: Consider the Big Picture

Communication is key to working with a photographer for your wedding. This includes communication before, during, and after the big day. The entire process will go more smoothly if you are confident that your wedding photographer is professional, organized and on time.

Before signing any contract, ask about turnaround times. You can also read reviews on Google or The Knot.

From the Photographer’s Point of View

Photography by Kate Ivy

Meet Kate Ivy, an AU Pro Partner and a celebrated Colorado Wedding Photographer whose passion for capturing love stories shines through every frame. Kate’s deep appreciation for the magic of weddings is beautifully expressed in her heartfelt approach to photography.

As she puts it, “When I am around two people madly in love — I lose my breath a little. My heart beats fast. It makes me feel alive and everything seems right in the world. There is nothing like witnessing two people commit to loving one another. Not despite of their flaws and quirks, but because of them. Two imperfect people, willing to put in the work for the greatest gift there is in the world.” With her unique blend of artistry and emotion, Kate creates stunning visual narratives that reflect the true essence of each couple’s journey.

TIP 01: Fill in the contact form

Filling out their contact form is the first step to connecting with them. It may seem obvious, however I’m saying it for several reasons. First, I’ve missed out on working with clients who contacted me via Instagram and I didn’t see their DM when I was hiding my requests.

This is a bit like an interview — we’re both asking each other questions. It’s not uncommon for couples to fill out many of these forms at the beginning. However, letting us get to know you and your partner helps us build a connection. My questions are simple. One of them is, “How do you spend Sundays?” — Are you hiking with your dog, going to a farmers’ market, or visiting a new restaurant on a Sunday?

It’s okay if the first time you speak to your photographer feels awkward. You can find so many photographers, so “shop around” to find someone you like and who has a similar personality.

TIP 02: Talk about your priorities,

It is important to have great wedding photos, but I know that most couples are on a budget for their big day. I’ve heard that you should only spend ten to twelve per cent of your budget on wedding photography.

It’s important, I believe, to determine what you value most. Some people spend a lot on flowers while others think that food is more important. If you’re having a small wedding, with a food trailer, then your budget might be able to go towards the photographer or videographer of your choice.

Asking people who recently got married what they would have spent more money on or less is also a good idea. Consider whether your dream photographer offers a shorter package (6 hours as opposed to 8 hours or even a whole day). To fit my budget, I’d rather pay more for my dream photographer, but only get less time.

Selecting the ideal wedding photographer is a journey that requires understanding your personal style and the emotions you want to capture. From the timeless grace of traditional photography to the candid spontaneity of photojournalism, the artistic beauty of fine art, and the nostalgic allure of film, each style brings something distinctive to your wedding day.

By exploring these styles and considering advice from the pros, you can find the perfect match to document your love story.

Remember, your wedding photos are more than just images; they are a testament to your love and joy, treasured memories that you will look back on for a lifetime. Trust your gut — and congratulations on your celebration of love!