A professional photographer is more than just a camera. They are an experienced artist that combines their knowledge of photography and storytelling to produce stunning images that will captivate generations to come.

They are experts at guiding you through posed photos and giving subtle prompts that can make all the difference. They can also spot those unrepeatable moments and capture them in a beautiful light.

1. They’re Experienced

A professional wedding photographer has literally thousands of hours of vital on-the-job experience. That’s why you can trust them to know exactly what to do in any given situation.

They’ve shot at your venue before and are familiar with the best spots for photos. And they’re also great at utilizing light to create beautiful images.

Wedding photographers are masters at guiding their clients through poses, boosting their confidence and making them feel relaxed in front of the camera. This is especially important for couples who are nervous about their photogenicity. It’s an invaluable skill that can’t be learned in a workshop or by reading a book. A pro will get you amazing wedding photos that capture your love story beautifully. This pretty light painted engagement portrait of Corey and Ashley was photographed by Jenny Fu Studio.

2. They’re Organized

A wedding photographer needs to be organized in order to capture all the important moments of your big day. Professionals have honed their problem-solving skills and are quick to come up with alternative solutions on the fly when a small hiccup happens (think: a flower wilting or a guest stepping in front of the bride).

They also use state-of-the-art equipment, and invest thousands of dollars to maintain, upgrade and optimize this technology. "Uncle Bob" may have a nice camera, but it's unlikely that he'll be able to use it in the fast-paced and ever-changing lighting conditions of a wedding.

When choosing your photographer, schedule in-person or virtual meetings to get to know them and ensure you have chemistry. Also, ask about their booking process, cancellation policy, insurance, backup cameras and equipment.

3. They’re Creative

Your wedding photos will be treasured by you, your family, and your friends for a lifetime. You should always hire a photographer who is able to create stunning photos that tell your story.

Professionals understand lighting, posing, composition, and editing. A seasoned photographer can take any setting and make it look beautiful, whether that’s a church with harsh light or your great-aunt’s dance floor!

The ability to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera is a vital skill that only comes with experience. A good wedding photographer will ensure that you are relaxed and have fun during your posed shots, so that they can capture authentic moments. The unrepeatable moments on your wedding day will never happen again; you want to know that the professional you hire can capture them.

4. They’re Reliable

Professionals use top quality cameras and other equipment that is typically much more expensive than a typical camera. They’re also likely to be set up as a business so they are required to pay sales and income taxes, possibly have professional liability insurance and more.

They’re able to capture the right angle, light, and pose for all those Kodak moments that make your wedding special. They have the people skills needed to help keep bridezillas and momzillas calm and get everyone where they need to be during a hectic day.

Look for photographers with consistent reviews and portfolios that show their skills and style. It’s also a good idea to have an initial shoot with them before your big day to gauge chemistry and to see their style in action.

5. They’re Affordable

The thing is, wedding photographers aren’t fungible in the same way that cars are. Within pricing segments, wedding photographers differ from the stratospherically priced to the bargain brand.

Newer, less experienced photographers might be a bit cheaper, but they aren’t able to provide the same value as an expert. That’s because they aren’t yet professional enough and don’t have a portfolio of consistent quality.

It’s important to find a photographer who is both affordable and qualified for your event. Be sure to request references and read reviews to assess the photographer’s professionalism and customer service. Then, examine the contract to ensure that it clearly defines all of your services, deliverables and additional terms and conditions. This will prevent any misunderstandings and potential mishaps that could result in added costs for you.