Planning Tools, Ideas, & Advice
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For Wedding Pros
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As the trend of micro weddings continues to grow, more couples are embracing the idea of a more intimate celebration. With fewer guests and a more relaxed atmosphere, small weddings often create the perfect opportunity for photographers to capture the raw, emotional moments that make the day special. However, choosing the right photographer for a small wedding requires careful consideration. From finding someone with experience in intimate settings to ensuring their style aligns with your vision, selecting the perfect photographer is a crucial decision.
When it comes to wedding vendors, this one is at the top of the list in terms of importance so we want to make sure you’re fully equipped to find the perfect one.
This blog will guide you through everything you need to know about hiring a small wedding photographer and making the most of their talents on your big day.
Ok, this is kind of obvious, but we’re covering it anyway. If you can, hire a photographer. Having a photographer for your small wedding allows you to look back on your day for years to come.
The right photographer will know how to capture the intimate moments common to a micro wedding which is why we recommend the photographers you see above. The right photographer can make even the smallest celebration feel grand and will capture even the most intimate and nuanced moments with ease.
This isn’t a requirement, but there are differences with more intimate weddings and elopements. Receptions hit different with 10 people than they do with 150 so having someone who’s ready to anticipate an all-out dance party or everyone sharing stories around the table will ensure you get great photos.
Traditional, candid, documentary – match it with your wedding’s theme. Dig deep into portfolios and find the ones that resonate.
Finding a photographer that’s comfortable in the environment where you’re getting married is another thing to look for. They’ll be able to better anticipate lighting opportunities and challenges and just generally know how to move you around a space to get the best shots.
You will want to totally vibe with this person. They are going to be in your space all day long so finding someone that’s a good match for your personality is a must.
If you’re having a courthouse wedding and a dinner at a restaurant, you probably don’t need 8 hours of coverage and similarly, if you’re doing a mountaintop elopement, you’ll want a package that makes sense for that. Most photographers have a few different options, and if you’re unsure about what is best for your small wedding, just ask.
We recommend meeting with a few different photographers before choosing yours. Before reaching out, do some research to be sure they’re a good potential for your wedding style.
Book your photographer 8-12 months in advance to ensure availability, especially if your wedding date is during peak season.
The average cost of a wedding photographer in the US is $2,900 according to The Knot. That’s about what I spent, but you could spend more or less depending on the following factors:
One really great way to do this is to schedule an engagement session with them so you all can get to know each other, and you and your partner can get comfortable in front of the camera.
Don’t shy away from being really specific about what you’re looking for from a photographer in terms of photography and editing style. You should be able to tell from their portfolio, but if you’re unsure show them pictures from inspiration boards like Pinterest so they can fully understand what you’re hoping for. A great photographer will be honest about whether or not they can capture your vision.
Work with your photographer in the weeks leading up to your micro wedding to collaborate on a shot list. Let them know what’s important to you and if there’s anything you definitely want to have captured. This also gives you an opportunity to align with your photographer on what’s realistic in terms of timeline.
Small wedding photographers have so much knowledge about weddings. Don’t be afraid to ask them for recommendations or help if you need it. If they are unable to help, they’ll likely be able to direct you to someone who can.
Small weddings offer couples the chance to create meaningful, personal celebrations, and the right photographer plays an essential role in capturing those moments. With their ability to focus on the intimate details and provide a tailored experience, small wedding photographers are more than just vendors – they are storytellers who bring your day to life through their lens. By taking the time to find someone whose experience, style, and approach align with your vision, you'll be able to create a collection of wedding photos that perfectly encapsulates your special day. Ultimately, investing in the right photographer ensures that the memories of your small wedding will be cherished for years to come.