Snap Decisions: A Fun + Smart Guide to Wedding Photography Packages

Know Your Photo Style, Babe 

Before diving into packages, know what kind of wedding photos make your heart flutter. Do you love dreamy, light and airy vibes? Moody and romantic? True-to-color candids? Every wedding photographer has a signature style, and finding one that matches your vision is key.

Tips:

• Stalk Instagram and Pinterest to see what styles speak to you.
• Ask photographers for full wedding galleries to see consistency.
• Trust your reaction—if you feel something, that’s your vibe!

Ask Yourself:

• What kind of photos do I always save on Pinterest or Instagram?
• Are my favorite photos full of spontaneous laughter or dreamy, editorial poses?
• Do I gravitate toward bright, airy images or deep, moody tones?

Consider the Coverage 

Let’s talk time, friend! Your wedding day flies by in the blink of an eye, so let’s make sure your photographer is there to catch all the magic. Start by thinking about the moments that matter most. Are you dreaming of cozy robe pics with your besties, or just want coverage from the “I do” to the dance floor?

Tips:

• Make a list of must-have moments: getting ready, first look, family portraits, first dance, etc.
• Be realistic about how long everything takes – 6, 8, or 10 hours?
• Don’t forget the travel time between venues or sunset portrait sessions.

Ask Yourself:

• Will there be special moments (like a sparkler send-off or late-night snack truck) that happen after dark?
• Do I want behind-the-scenes moments from the start of the day?
• Will we be moving between locations (hotel to ceremony to reception)?

Pro Tip: If you’ve got a grand exit or a surprise late-night performance planned, you’ll want enough hours to make sure your photographer is still snapping when the fun’s at its peak!

Good Vibes Only

You're spending 6+ hours with your wedding photographer – So they better be someone you vibe with! You want more than a pro behind the lens – you want someone who can laugh with you, calm your nerves, and feel like part of the crew.

Tips:

• Schedule a Zoom or coffee chat.
• Read reviews to see what other couples say.
• Ask how they handle nerves or wedding day curveballs.

Ask yourself:

• Do I feel like I could grab a coffee (or champagne!) with this photographer and totally vibe?
• Can I imagine them making me laugh when I’m nervous or stressed on the big day?
• Would I feel comfortable getting emotional or goofy in front of them?
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Pro Tip: You want someone who hypes you up, handles chaos like a champ, and makes you feel like a total rockstar while snapping away.

Because Who Doesn’t Love a Little Extra?

Engagement sessions, boudoir, second shooters, albums – oh my! These extras aren’t just fluff – they’re the sprinkles on top of your wedding photo sundae. Whether you're looking to warm up in front of the camera, spice things up, or relive your day in print for years to come, extras can help tell the whole love story.

Tips:

• Feeling awkward in front of the camera? An engagement session is basically a fun dress rehearsal (minus the nerves, plus cute pics).
• Dreaming of a luxe album that your grandkids will flip through one day? Some packages include stunning printed keepsakes.
• Not sure what you want? Ask your photographer if you can build your own bundle of goodies!

Pick Your Price Point, Without the Panic

Let’s be real: wedding photography is an investment, but it doesn’t have to blow your whole budget. The trick? Balance, baby! Think of it like building your dream brunch order—you don’t need everything on the menu, but you want the stuff that’ll leave you satisfied.

Ask Yourself:

• What parts of the package are non-negotiable? (Hello, golden hour portraits!)
• Am I okay spending more for someone whose style + vibe is exactly what I want?

Tips:

• Prioritize your must-haves (like full-day coverage or an album) and skip the fluff.
• Don’t sleep on payment plans!

Go With Your Feelings, Not Just the Facts

Let’s be honest—your gut is kind of a genius. After all the research, the emails, the price-checking and the Insta-stalking... sometimes you just know. That little spark when chatting with a photographer? Don’t ignore it!

Ask Yourself:

• Do I feel like I could totally relax around this person?
• Did they “get” me and my partner right away?
• Can I imagine them cheering us on during portraits or calming me down if something goes sideways?

Pro Tip: If you leave your consultation thinking, “Omg I can’t WAIT to work with them!”—that’s your sign, friend.