5 Mistakes Couples Make When Choosing a Wedding Photographer (And How to Avoid Them)

Choosing a wedding photographer is one of the biggest decisions you'll make for your big day. After all, your photos are what you'll have left to relive the memories for years to come. At HN Photography, we’ve seen firsthand how the right photographer can make all the difference — and how a few common missteps can lead to regrets. Here are five mistakes couples often make when choosing a wedding photographer, and how you can avoid them!

1. Prioritizing Price Over Connection When Choosing A Wedding Photographer

The Mistake: Picking a photographer based mainly on who offers the cheapest package.

Why It Matters: Your photographer will be with you through your most emotional, personal moments. If you don't connect with them, it can make the experience feel awkward and forced.

How to Avoid It: Of course, budget matters, but connection matters more. Choose someone whose style you love and whose presence makes you feel comfortable, relaxed, and understood.

2. Not Reviewing Full Wedding Galleries

The Mistake: Falling in love with a few highlight photos on Instagram without seeing a full gallery.

Why It Matters: It's easy to impress with a few perfect shots. What you really need to know is whether the photographer can deliver beautiful, consistent work across a whole day — from getting ready to the late-night dancing.

How to Avoid It: Always ask to see at least one or two complete wedding galleries. This will give you a true sense of their storytelling ability and attention to detail.

3. Ignoring the Importance of Style

The Mistake: Choosing a photographer without fully understanding their style.

Why It Matters: Different photographers have different approaches: some are posed and formal, others (like us at HN Photography!) focus on candid, relaxed storytelling. If the style doesn’t match your vision, you'll be disappointed no matter how talented they are.

How to Avoid It: Take time to learn the difference between styles (photojournalistic, fine art, editorial, etc.) and find a photographer whose work aligns with how you want your wedding remembered.

4. Overlooking Personality Fit

The Mistake: Forgetting that you'll be spending more time with your photographer than almost anyone else on your wedding day.

Why It Matters: If you don't "click" with your photographer, it can impact your whole experience. A good vibe = relaxed photos = genuine smiles.

How to Avoid It: Meet your photographer in person or over a video call before booking. Make sure you feel at ease with them — it will make all the difference!

5. Booking Too Late

The Mistake: Waiting until the last minute to book a photographer.

Why It Matters: The best photographers often book 12-18 months in advance, especially for popular wedding dates.

How to Avoid It: Prioritize booking your photographer early in your planning process. As soon as you have a date and venue, start reaching out!

At HN Photography, We’re Here to Make It Easy

We believe that finding the right wedding photographer should feel natural, exciting, and stress-free. Our relaxed, candid approach helps you feel comfortable so your true love story can shine through effortlessly.

Looking for a photographer who feels more like a friend than a vendor?

We’d love to hear your story.