How to choose the right wedding photographer.
- Chloe Gelsthorpe
- Feb 18
- 2 min read
Choosing the right photographer for your wedding can be super overwhelming. There are so many different options and people to choose from and the terminology surrounding these options can be confusion. Words like: editorial and documentary can have you questioning what you want from a photographer. Your wedding photos are how you remember the day, so it is important you make the right choice for you.
1. Choose a Style You Love
Every photographer has a different style. Some focus on natural, candid moments, while others prefer more posed, traditional & editorial images. Spend time looking through full wedding galleries, not just highlights on social media, and ask yourself which style feels most like you.
My style focuses very much on the feel of the day, capturing natural moments that reflect the vibe of the day. This would most likely fall into the documentary style of wedding photography rather than editorial or posed. I would suggest choosing this type of photography if you like the candid, relaxed feel to your photos.
2. Look Beyond the Highlights
A beautiful Instagram feed is great, but it’s important to see complete weddings. This shows how a photographer captures the entire day, from getting ready in the morning to the dance floor in the evening, in different lighting and situations.
Highlight photos are great, but full galleries show consistency. Weddings can include a variety of lighting situations, from dark morning prep rooms to bright outdoor ceremonies and evening receptions. Viewing full galleries helps you see how experienced the photographer really is.
Take a look at one of my Real Wedding's here:
3. Make Sure You Feel Comfortable
You’ll spend a lot of time with your photographer on your wedding day, so it’s important that you feel relaxed around them. A good photographer will help you feel at ease, especially if you’re not used to being in front of the camera. Make sure to take a good look at the 'About' page of your photographer and always book in an 'in-person' meeting or video call to make sure they're a good fit!
4. Check Experience and Reviews
Experience matters. An experienced wedding photographer knows how to handle different lighting, weather, and timelines. Reading reviews from past couples can also give you confidence and peace of mind. Reviews can give you confidence in your choice. Look for feedback about reliability, professionalism, and how the photographer made couples feel on the day.
Read some of my reviews here:
5. Think About What Matters Most
Overall, it is important to ask yourself what you value most. Is it natural moments? Beautiful portraits? A relaxed experience? The right photographer will align with your priorities and help you enjoy your day.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding photographer isn’t just there to take photos, they’re there to tell the story of your day. Take your time, do your research, and choose someone whose work you love and whose presence makes you feel comfortable. When you do, you’ll know you’ve made the right choice.
If you’re currently planning your wedding and would like to find out more about my approach, I’d love to hear from you.
Norfolk Wedding Photography - Chloe Gels Photo Video 2026
Natural, Candid, Documentary Wedding Photography
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