What Every Couple Should Know Before Booking Their Wedding Photographer

Your wedding day is going to be epic—a mix of happy tears, awkward laughters, and moments so sweet they’ll make your heart melt. But let’s be real, when the party is over and the venue becomes a mess, your photos are the only thing keeping those memories alive (okay, maybe also your body ache's after the event).

That’s why picking the right photographer is a big deal. This isn’t just about snapping pretty pictures, it’s about hiring someone who gets you, can handle "Letchumi aunty's" endless requests for group shots, and knows how to make you look like the rockstar couple you are.

So how do you find the one? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here's everything you need to know prior to booking a wedding photographer, so you can tick this off your to-do list and get back to debating who's going to hold your Thali on your wedding day. Let’s do this!

1. Know Your Style

   First things first: you need to figure out your vibe. Do you want those dramatic, artsy shots that look like they belong in a museum (that's fine art photography)? Or are you into the “caught in the act” moments where you forget the photographer and can be happily vibing (candid &documentary style)? Maybe you’re all about classic, posed family photos where everyone’s standing still and smiling (traditional)?

   
   

   Pro tip: stalk your photographer portfolios like you’re investigating a Netflix true-crime case. Go nuts in stalking. When you come across a style that makes you think, “OMG, that’s us!” you’ll know you’re on the right track.

   
   
   
   

   

   
   
   
   

2. Request for Full Sample Galleries

   Here’s a very important tip: when you’ve shortlisted a few photographers, ask to see their complete work that aligns with your wedding tradition and venue. Don’t just fall for the first pretty photos you see online. Check reviews like you’re picking a hotel prior to your honeymoon staycation.

   
   

   Request full galleries, including their final products, like albums and other deliverables, so you know exactly what to expect. Every photographer has their own unique way of presenting the final results. For example, if you’re having a wedding in a temple, it doesn’t make sense to review a gallery from a beach-themed wedding because you’ll end up disappointed with unrealistic expectations.

   
   

   Pro tip: There many types of album in the market such as traditional sticky albums, photobooks (magazine type) and the luxurious flush mounts. The prices of these albums varies according to it's quality.

   
   
   
   

   

   
   

3. Talk to Your Photographer

   This is like speed dating but way more important. Schedule a call and see if you vibe. Do they seem like someone you wouldn’t mind hanging out with for 5+ hours on the most important day of your life? You’ll see if they can handle everything from getting-ready chaos to tipsy dance floor shenanigans.

   
   

   Better yet, book an Prewedding shoot. It’s like a trial run where you can practice your smiles & poses and see if they can handle your weird but cute side.

Pro tip: When you schedule a call, make sure you tell them your requirements, the venue details, and most importantly, the number of expected guests. The majority of the time, you wouldn't need to go for the highest-priced package. It would end up being much more affordable than expected.

4. Review the Contract Carefully

   Contracts are not sexy, but you need to read them. Look for cancellation policies (because life happens), social media sharing policies, and payment schedules (so you’re not hit with surprises). Think of this as the prenup for your wedding photos. Not romantic, but totally necessary.

   
   
   
   
   
   

   

   
   

5. Maintain a Good Communication

Your photographer isn’t a mind reader. If there are must-have shots like your grandma’s jewelleries or your college buddies doing the victory pose of Usain bolt, carefully list it down.

Also, give them the scoop on family dynamics (like how Aunty Saras and Uncle Kumar need to stay on opposite sides of the group photo) and any unique traditions. Good communication gives fewer awkward moments and more magical memories.

At the end of the day, finding the right wedding photographer is like finding the perfect biryani combo; it needs to suit your taste, make you smile every time you see it, and not leave you regretting your choice later. With these tips in hand, you’re ready to book someone who’ll capture

your big day in the best way possible and with lots of laughter along the way. Now go nail it like a champ!