An overview of how best to locate your Midwest wedding photographer when planning the biggest day of your life!

Choosing a Midwest wedding photographer feels so daunting. I remember having to do this myself and it was definitely a bit stressful! Luckily, I had a referral from a good friend and I was so happy with my choice. Why do I share this? I don’t take it for granted how complex the decision making process can be. Finding a great photographer is not the only thing you have to do! So here a few of my tips!

Note, this blog was written in 2021 and shows some of my older work. For my newer work, visit here!

Tip #1: Where to look for your Midwest Wedding Photographer

When I first started my search, I gravitated to sites like the Knot and Wedding Wire. While that can be a great start, I absolutely recommend searching Instagram! Hashtags and searches are your friend! This can be a great way to see a photographer’s latest work. Even if you don’t have a well-maintained Instagram account, try searching for hashtags like #cincinnatiweddingphotographer or #chicagophotographer. You can search Top or Recent posts and find a photographer that matches the style and vibe you’re looking for! Also, searching websites is a great way to look through galleries, see pricing, and also just learn more about each photographer. 

Instagram is starting to get more search friendly, so you can also just type into the search button the city you’re looking for with the words “Wedding photographer.” Check out each page and each wedding photographer should have a recent portfolio you can take a look at.

Tip #2: Photographers do have a style

Many of us find an editing style we like and we stick to it. This way, our clients know exactly what to expect. Do you see a photographer that edits light and bright and you really like their photos, but you like dark and moody? I definitely recommend finding a photographer who edits darker. Asking a photographer to edit differently than how they normally do is like asking an artist to switch from watercolor to pencil. 

Tip #3: Pricing

See a photographer you love but pricing seems more than you want to pay? I recommend to see what’s within your budget before you ask a photographer to negotiate or come down on their pricing. Much goes into the consideration of structuring photo pricing – not only the cost of equipment such as a camera, but also the cost of maintaining a website, editing software, online galleries, advertising, styled shoots, and of course the cost of time. 

Tip #4 Ask good questions

It’s ok to ask questions to your potential photographer such as how long they’ve been doing photography, what they’re passionate about, what equipment do they use, what their process is like, and what they will deliver to you. Finding a wedding photographer is an investment and they should always be honest and upfront with you. On a side note, always be sure to offer your full respect if a photographer doesn’t answer something in the way you expected! 

Tip #5 Do what feels right!

I am so glad I chose the photographer I did for my wedding. Not only did I know she could take amazing pictures, but I got great vibes on her personality, her kindness, and her professionalism. These are all things to think about since you’ll be working with this person! Remember, you have to trust this person to fully capture your day, and if you have great, positive vibes – I say go for it! 

About this Midwest Wedding Photographer. I’m based in Cincinnati and Dayton Ohio but I do travel!

Also, I recommend checking out Wedding Day Magazine. They specialize in wedding planning in the midwest!