How to Choose Your Wedding Photographer
Your wedding photographs are one of the few things you'll have long after your wedding day is over. The flowers will fade, the cake will be eaten, and the decorations will be packed away—but your photographs will preserve the memories, emotions, and little moments you'll want to relive for years to come.
Choosing the right wedding photographer isn't just about finding someone who takes beautiful photos. It's about finding someone you trust to document one of the most important days of your life.
Here are a few things every couple should consider before booking a wedding photographer.
1. Find a Photography Style You Love
Every photographer has a unique style. Before reaching out, spend time looking through full wedding galleries—not just highlight images on social media.
Ask yourself:
Do I like bright and airy or true-to-life colors?
Do the photos feel timeless?
Can I picture myself in these images?
Do the couples look comfortable and natural?
Your wedding photos should still feel beautiful decades from now.
2. Look Beyond Instagram
Instagram usually showcases only a photographer's favorite images. Ask to see complete wedding galleries so you can evaluate how they photograph:
Getting ready
The ceremony
Family portraits
Couple portraits
Reception details
Dancing
Low-light situations
A complete gallery shows consistency from beginning to end.
3. Read Reviews
Reviews tell you what it's actually like to work with a photographer.
Look for comments about:
Communication
Professionalism
Organization
Personality
Timely gallery delivery
Overall experience
Happy clients often mention much more than just beautiful photos.
4. Make Sure You Feel Comfortable
You'll spend more time with your photographer than almost any other wedding vendor.
Choose someone who makes you feel:
Comfortable
Relaxed
Heard
Supported
Confident
When you're comfortable, your genuine personalities shine through in your photos.
5. Ask What's Included
Every photographer's collections are different.
Ask questions like:
How many hours of coverage are included?
Is an engagement session available?
How many edited images will we receive?
How are photos delivered?
Is a print release included?
Are albums available?
Knowing exactly what's included helps you compare options fairly.
6. Ask About Backup Plans
Wedding photographers should always be prepared for the unexpected.
Ask whether they have:
Backup camera equipment
Extra memory cards
Multiple batteries
Backup storage for your images
Preparation provides peace of mind on your wedding day.
7. Understand the Contract
A professional photographer should always provide a contract.
Your contract should explain:
Payment schedule
Cancellation and rescheduling policies
Delivery timeline
Coverage hours
Responsibilities of both parties
Don't hesitate to ask questions before signing.
8. Consider Communication
Planning a wedding involves lots of questions.
Choose someone who communicates clearly, responds promptly, and helps guide you through the planning process—not just someone who shows up on the wedding day.
A photographer who communicates well can make the entire experience much less stressful.
9. Think About the Experience
Beautiful photos matter—but so does how you feel while they're being taken.
The right photographer will help create a relaxed experience by:
Guiding natural poses
Keeping portraits efficient
Helping you stay on schedule
Capturing genuine moments instead of forcing them
Your wedding day should feel joyful, not rushed.
10. Choose Someone You Trust
At the end of the day, trust your instincts.
When you find someone whose work you love, whose personality fits yours, and who makes you feel confident, you've likely found the right photographer.
Your wedding photographs deserve someone who cares about your memories as much as you do.
My Approach
At Jordan Sanderson Photography, my goal is to create timeless, genuine images that reflect your story. I believe the best photographs come from real moments, genuine emotion, and a relaxed experience.
From our first conversation to your final gallery, I'm here to answer questions, help with planning, guide you through portraits, and make your photography experience as enjoyable as possible.
Every wedding is unique, and I consider it an honor to document such an important chapter in your lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should we book our wedding photographer?
Many couples book 8–18 months before their wedding, especially for popular spring and fall dates.
Should we schedule an engagement session?
Absolutely! Engagement sessions are a great opportunity to get comfortable in front of the camera before your wedding day while creating beautiful images for save-the-dates, invitations, or your wedding website.
Do you travel?
Yes! I photograph weddings throughout Joplin, Carthage, Webb City, Springfield, Southwest Missouri, and beyond.
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Ready to Find Your Wedding Photographer?
If you're looking for a wedding photographer who values genuine moments, timeless images, and a relaxed experience, I'd love to hear about your plans.
Whether you're planning an intimate ceremony or a full-day celebration, let's create photographs that you'll treasure for a lifetime.
Now booking weddings throughout Joplin, Carthage, Webb City, Springfield, and Southwest Missouri. Contact Jordan Sanderson Photography to check availability and learn more about wedding collections.
