Modern Romantic Tips from Love, Violeta Rose

When you first start planning your wedding, you probably dive headfirst into Pinterest boards and dreamy Instagram feeds. And while those visuals are inspiring, choosing your photographer is about more than just the highlight reel. As someone who’s photographed dozens of weddings, I’m here to walk you through what actually matters. So you can feel confident and excited when choosing the person documenting one of your biggest days.

1. You Should Feel Comfortable With Them

Your photographer will be with you more than almost anyone else on your wedding day. From the nervous jitters in the morning to the dance floor chaos at night. Feeling safe, seen, and genuinely at ease in their presence is essential.

Vibe Check Questions to Ask:

Do I feel relaxed around them?

Would I want them around my family and friends?

Do they listen to what matters most to us?

2. Style Isn't Just Aesthetic, It’s Storytelling

There are many types of photography styles, and understanding your photographer’s approach will help you make the right fit. Here's a quick breakdown:

Photojournalistic
Think: real, candid, and unscripted moments.
This is perfect for couples who want their day documented as it naturally unfolds—laughs, tears, and all the beautiful in-between moments.

Editorial
Think: polished, magazine-worthy imagery with attention to lighting, styling, and direction.
Ideal for couples who love a fashion-forward or cinematic vibe, and aren’t afraid to go a little bold with their portraits.
Traditional
Think: classic portraits, family group shots, and timeless compositions.
Great for couples who want to honor legacy and prioritize beautifully posed images that stand the test of time.

3. Ask About the Full Experience (Not Just the Photos)

Most couples don’t realize how much goes into the process behind the scenes. It’s important to ask about:

Turnaround time for your gallery
How previews and final images are delivered
Whether albums, prints, or film are included
Any added services like timeline planning or engagement sessions

✅ Online gallery with high-res + web-size downloads
✅ Print shop access
✅ Sneak peeks within a week
✅ 6–8 week full gallery delivery
✅ Optional add-ons like 35mm film or album design

4. They Can Handle Any Lighting Situation

Whether it’s a dimly lit church, golden hour portraits, or a dark dance floor, an experienced photographer knows how to light and shoot in any condition. You want someone who can adapt with ease—without interrupting the vibe.

📸 Insert Before/After Lighting Comparison:
Left: A candlelit ceremony | Right: Same moment, beautifully captured

5. Questions to Ask in Your Consult Call

To help you feel more prepared (and to weed out photographers who aren’t the right fit), ask these during your intro call:

Top 7 Questions To Ask

How would you describe your shooting style?
Can we see a full wedding gallery?
How do you handle family portraits or large groups?
What’s your backup plan for gear or emergencies?
How do you help couples who feel awkward in front of the camera?
What’s included in your packages—and what’s extra?
Can we chat again before the wedding day?

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, hiring a wedding photographer isn’t about picking the cheapest or the trendiest. It’s about choosing someone who gets your vision, supports your flow, and preserves your memories in a way that feels true to you.

If you're curious about what it's like to work together, check out this post on how I prep couples for their photos, or reach out directly—I’m happy to chat, no pressure.

Let’s Talk About Your Wedding

What to Look for When Hiring a Wedding Photographer (Beyond the Pretty Photos)