When we were getting married 12 years ago, I had no idea what style of wedding photography I wanted to capture our wedding.

I found several wedding photographers and we interviewed them, but they were all so different. It was hard for me to know what we were looking for to even narrow down the list of wedding photographers. Now, as a wedding planner based in the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York, I’ve worked with and become familiar with many different and incredibly talented photographers. 

After many years of working in the industry, it’s much easier for me to distinguish different photographers and their photography styles. 

So today I’m going to break down for you how to identify what style of wedding photography is right for you and how to find photographers that shoot in that style. 

First, we’re going to look at the types of images that you like (what you’re attracted to). Then we’re going to look at the composition and coloring of the photos and how they’re edited so you can further narrow down your perfect wedding photographer. 

You are going to want to save this for later!

 

What style of wedding photography do you gravitate to?

Let’s first take a look at what you’re attracted to. What naturally catches your eye? More than that, what kinds of details are you excited to have captured at your wedding? Is it the candid moments? The dreamy bridal portraits that look like they came out of a magazine?

In order to do this, we’re going to look where you’re getting a lot of your wedding inspiration – Pinterest and Instagram. 

First, we’re going to look at non-portrait photos. These photos are going to show details or objects from the wedding day. Not necessarily the couple.

• What are the objects in the photos that you like? Accessories, jewelry, and stationery? 
• Are the photographs purposefully composed with many elements, like heels next to stationery, jewelry, some perfume, and lace?
• Are they photographed from further away to show several items?
• Or, are the photos tight close-ups of specific objects like a wedding ring on a flower or stationery?

Seeing what stands out to you will show you what’s important for you.

Next, let’s look at the wedding decor. 

• Do like or save many photos of the decor or decorations at the wedding, such as the dinner tables, the guest book, welcome signs, escort cards, etc. 
• Do you like them because you want to do something similar? If you do, you'll want to make sure that the photographer likes to captures these details too!

Seeing what details excite you will tell you how much, if any, you want photographed at your own wedding. 

An Example of Dark & Moody Wedding Photography from Nicole Nero 

How do YOU want to be captured and photographed?

Next, let’s look at the images of other couples at their weddings. How are they being captured? We’re going to look at 3 things: 

• Where are they?
• What are they doing?
• What do you see?

Before you dive in, check out this post on mistakes to avoid when choosing a wedding photographer!

First, Where are they?

• Are they indoors or outdoors?
• Are the photos focused on the couples? Or do you see a lot of dramatic landscapes, like mountains or a big field?
• Do you see much of the setting where they’re being photographed or not much at all? What's pretty about these photos? What do you like?

 

An Example of Bright and Vibrant Wedding Photography from Jenny Berliner Photography

 

Second, What do the wedding couple's portraits look like?

• Is the wedding couple posed and looking at the camera as they hold each other’s hands or hug each other?
• Is one lying down on the couch while the other is sitting next to them?
• Are they both standing on steps in a formal pose?
• Or is the couple caught up in a moment that’s being captured?
• Are they laughing as they walk somewhere, such as through a vineyard or field?
• How much emotion is being captured? 
• Are there strong feelings being expressed?
• Does someone look surprised with their hands over their mouths because they just saw something or someone?

You will likely have a mix of photos, but seeing how other couples are being captured will show you how you also want to be photographed.

An Example of Bright and Vibrant Wedding Photography from Jenny Berliner Photography

Third, What do you want the photos to look like?

Now, take a step back. 

Think about all of the photos that you’ve been pinning and liking as a whole.

• How would you describe the colors and tones in the photos?
• Do they feel bright and vibrant? Are the colors saturated and feel like what you’d see in a magazine?
• Or are they a little darker and moodier? Are there deeper tones like browns, black or navy?
• Or, could they be a third option? Do you see a lot of pastels? Do they feel light and airy?
• How would you describe the mood of the photos? Are they energetic and bright?
• Are they subdued?
• Do they feel like they’re a little more on the vintage side?
• Or could you describe them as moody?

An Example of Light and Airy Wedding Photography from Emi Rose Studio

Fourthly, What’s Your Wedding Style?

Now that we’ve figured out what you’re attracted to and what you’re not, let’s take a step back and look at your personal style and tastes. Certain styles or vibes lend themselves to certain styles of photography. 

• What kind of wedding are you planning and where will it be?
• Are you planning something in a more casual setting, like a backyard or field? 
• Are you planning a wedding that’s going to be very formal?
• Or are you somewhere in the middle?

Knowing what kind of event you’re planning or thinking about is going to help you find other photographers that shoot in similar situations and settings. Photographers that shoot a lot outside will have to work differently if you’re inside in a room with little or no natural light. 

Next, check out this post with 5 questions to ask your wedding photographer before you book!

An Example of Dark & Moody Wedding Photography from Nicole Nero 

Booking Your Wedding Photographer

Hopefully, this post helped you figure out what type of photographer you want for your wedding. I have always found that once you have narrowed down WHAT you are looking for, it's easier to find it (or at least, feel confident when you have made a decision). If you need more assistance, part of my job as a Finger Lakes wedding planner is helping you curate the perfect vendor team! I don't stop until my couples find a photographer that perfectly matches their wedding vision. If you are outside of the Upstate New York area, you can also book a clarity call, which is essentially a time where you can basically ASK ME ANYTHING.

Can't get enough wedding planning advice? Make sure to check out our shop for tools & templates that will make wedding planning a lot easier!

One note I will leave you with after planning weddings for several years: the photographer will be with you the whole day. They won’t leave your side and they’re going to capture it how they see it and experience it. It’s important to find someone that will capture the wedding how you want to remember it, too!

Photography Credit: Emi Rose Studio

In case you scrolled to the bottom…

When trying to decide what type of photography is right for you, look at what you’re attracted to. What photos do you gravitate towards? Which images make you happy or excited? Also, how do you want to be captured in your photos? What do you want to see and remember from your wedding? And finally, think about the kind vibe you’re creating on your wedding day and what style of photography would best convey that. 

Don't forget to save this to your wedding planning board!

 

Want more information on booking your wedding photographer? Wondering how many hours of photography coverage you really need? Make sure to enter your email below and check your inbox for my FREE wedding photography timeline!