How to Choose a Wedding Photographer: The Key to Staying Present on Your Wedding Day

Choosing your wedding photographer is no small task. In fact, it might just be one of the most important decisions you make for your big day! If you’re not sure how to choose a wedding photographer, it’s crucial to think beyond just style and pricing, because the right photographer will help you stay present and actually enjoy your wedding day! But here's the thing I want to tell you: when it comes to your photographer, it’s not just about booking someone who takes pretty pictures. It’s about choosing a photographer who will make you feel present, relaxed, and able to soak in every single moment of your big day. After all, you only get to do this once, and you deserve to feel every little thing!

As a documentary-style photographer, my main goal is to ensure that you’re not stressing about getting the “perfect shot” but instead focusing on what really matters, each other! You should be living in the moment, laughing with your friends, sharing a private moment with your partner, and really feeling the love. And let me tell you, the right photographer can make ALL the difference in that process!

Why the Right Photographer Helps You Stay Present

I had the honor of capturing Michelle and Michael’s wedding at Kennolyn Hilltop Hacienda in Soquel, CA, and their day was the perfect example of how to choose a wedding photographer who helps you stay present! From their intimate first look to their emotional ceremony and beautiful reception, Michelle and Michael’s wedding day was filled with real, raw moments that were captured effortlessly because they chose the right photographer (yep, that’s me!).

The first thing I always tell my couples is that when you choose a wedding photographer, you’re choosing someone who will be with you every step of the way. A photographer should help you stay in the moment, guide you through the day, and capture memories in a way that doesn’t pull you out of the experience. Choosing the right photographer who uses a documentary, candid style is key in ensuring that you aren’t constantly worrying about posing or how you look in every shot. Instead, you’ll be able to focus on each other and the once-in-a-lifetime moments unfolding around you.

Their wedding day was a true reflection of what happens when a couple is present, relaxed, and fully connected. From their first look to the ceremony, their emotions were so raw and beautiful, it was so hard not to get teary-eyed behind the camera (I’ll admit it, I totally did!). Michael, especially, couldn’t stop crying when he saw Michelle walk toward him. The first look was so heartfelt. Michelle had this adorable idea of covering Michael’s eyes with her hands, and when he finally saw her, it was like the world stopped for a moment. And I was right there, capturing all of it, completely unposed, just them being themselves.

The Wedding Day: An Example of Staying Present and Capturing Real Moments

The ceremony was another incredibly emotional moment. It’s always such an honor to witness a couple’s vows and their commitment to each other. Michael and Michelle’s vows were heartfelt, and it was impossible not to feel the weight of their words.

One of the things that stood out to me was how Michelle and Michael just focused on each other. They weren’t distracted by the details or trying to make everything “picture-perfect” for the camera. They were simply there, in the moment, sharing this incredible milestone with each other, and that’s what makes for amazing wedding photos!

How to Choose a Wedding Photographer Who Works for You

So, you may be wondering, how do you actually choose a wedding photographer that helps you stay present? Here’s a breakdown of what you should look for:

Do They Make You Feel Comfortable?

When you’re looking for a wedding photographer, make sure you vibe with them. You want someone who feels like a friend, someone who will blend into the day and let you be yourselves. With me, I’m not going to ask you to do anything that doesn’t feel natural. I’m there to capture the real, raw moments as they happen!

Are They Comfortable with Candid Photography?

Not every photographer works in a documentary style, and that’s okay! But if you want to make sure your photos reflect how you felt in the moment, then hiring someone who specializes in candid photography is key. When you choose a photographer like me, you’ll be free to enjoy your day without worrying about posing for every shot. I’ll capture the real magic, the hugs, the laughter, the random moments of joy.

How Do They Help You Stay Present?
When you’re choosing your wedding photographer, it’s important to think about how they approach your day. Do they make you feel comfortable? Do they guide you in a way that helps you stay in the moment? When you work with me, I’m there to make sure you’re having fun, staying relaxed, and getting those authentic photos that truly reflect your love.

The Importance of Staying Present on Your Wedding Day

When you’re planning your wedding, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the details, the seating chart, the flowers, the timing. But in the end, what matters is how you feel on your wedding day! If you’re able to stay in the moment, soak in the love around you, and be fully present for your partner, your friends, and your family, your day will be a success. And that’s where how to choose a wedding photographer comes into play. A good photographer will help you capture those natural moments that are full of emotion and meaning, moments that you'll remember for the rest of your life!

Book Your SoCal Wedding Photographer!

Choosing your wedding photographer is such an important decision, and I’d love to help you capture your day in the most authentic, relaxed way possible! If you’re a couple who wants to focus on enjoying your wedding day, staying present and letting everything unfold naturally, I’m your girl! Let me be the third wheel on your big day, and I’ll make sure the photos are as magical as the moments themselves.

Book me to start planning your dream wedding day! I can’t wait to get to know you!

See more of Michelle and Michaels day below on film and more of my work on Pinterest!

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