Let’s get one thing straight: finding a wedding photographer isn’t about trends, price tags, or Insta clout. It’s about connection, trust, and making sure the person behind the camera can actually handle the pressure of photographing one of the most emotional, unpredictable, and important days of your life.
I’ve been doing this for nearly two decades, and let me tell you something real- I didn’t plan on becoming a wedding photographer.
I was deep in my studio era back then, working with musicians and actors creating moody, dark, artistic portraits. Then a friend asked if I’d shoot her brother’s wedding. I said, “Absolutely not.” She said, “You have the heart for it.” She was right.
One wedding turned into two. Two turned into 500+. Now, here we are, me, a Turkish, queer, loud-mouth artist who makes people laugh, cry, and forget there’s even a camera between us. And you? You’re probably engaged, overwhelmed, and trying to figure out who the hell you can trust.
Let’s get you some answers.
Step One: Know What You Want (Even If You Don’t Know Yet)
Most people getting married have never planned a wedding before. So, if you’re confused, it’s not because you’re clueless; it’s because no one tells you the right questions to ask.
Start here:
- How important are photos to you on a scale of 1–10?
- What’s your budget range, and is it flexible for someone you really love?
- Do you want someone who blends in quietly or someone who feels like an emotional support human with a camera?
- What kind of energy do you want in your day?
You don’t need to have all the answers, but you do need to start asking the right questions. We’ll get to that checklist at the end.
Step Two: Do More Than Scroll the Highlights
Let’s talk portfolios. That grid of jaw-dropping photos on someone’s homepage? That’s the highlight reel. It’s not dishonest, but it’s not the full story either.
Ask to see full wedding galleries. You want to see:
- How they handle bad lighting or unexpected weather
- Whether the editing feels consistent
- If the storytelling actually makes you feel something
Photos should be more than pretty. They should feel like you were there.
“She has an incredible eye for detail and captured every meaningful moment of our wedding with such care and creativity. The quality of her work is absolutely top-tier; every photo feels like a piece of art. Tara also knows how to take charge in the best way possible, making sure everyone was where they needed to be for photos, all while keeping the mood fun and relaxed.”
Step Three: Watch Out for Red Flags (I’ve Got Stories)
I once rescued a couple’s entire reception from imploding because their planner had scheduled their ceremony at sunset with no first look, no time for the couple’s portraits, and a 10 pm hard-out. Oh, and she wasn’t even there that day. She sent a high school grad in her place.
If I hadn’t stepped in to negotiate with the venue, DJ, and videographers, they would’ve missed their own damn reception. I even drove them to their hotel myself because the planner hadn’t checked in with the limo company… Yeah – smh.
That couple was 20 years old; their family was as sweet as could be, and they didn’t know any better. They just wanted someone affordable.
Please hear me: if the price is too good to be true, it usually is.
Look for:
- No full galleries are available
- No contracts
- No reviews outside of Instagram
- No in-person or Zoom meeting offered
- “Yes” answers to everything without any pushback or discussion
Step Four: Book Someone Who Vibes With You
I’m not pizza. I don’t need to please everyone. And neither should your photographer.
You’ll spend more time with your photographer on your wedding day than almost anyone else, so you better enjoy being around them. Personality match is everything.
If someone’s vibe is super chill and hands-off, but you want someone who hypes you up and makes you laugh through your nerves, you’re going to feel unsupported. And vice versa.
My couples usually know I’m their person after a phone call. Sometimes, we grab dinner. Sometimes, we talk about astrology and horror films while I pet-sit my cats and rats. Whatever helps them feel at home.
“I came across Tara’s website while browsing for an engagement photoshoot photographer in hopes of convincing my new fiancé (& now husband) to get some photos done. When I tell you Tara was the only photographer I reached out to, I mean it. My husband knew it was Tara or NOTHING! We had so much fun during our shoots, and we knew we wanted her at our wedding, so we booked her immediately! She was the only vendor we made travel with us, because there is no one else like her. Our wedding photos will be something I will treasure forever, and she kept me sane throughout the wedding day. She goes above and beyond for her couples, making sure to connect with them both on and off camera. IF and when we have kids, I know Tara will be the first one I call for all things family photos. We love her as if she is part of it herself!”
Step Five: Ask These Questions Before You Book Anyone
This is the checklist I wish more couples had when they started their search:
- Can I see 2–3 full galleries of recent weddings?
- How would you describe your editing style, and does it change in low light?
- What happens if you get sick or can’t make it?
- Do you have liability insurance?
- How do you manage timeline delays or stress on the day of the event?
- What’s your turnaround time?
- Are you comfortable with different cultural or religious traditions?
- Do you charge travel fees or offer payment plans?
- Will you help with timeline guidance or planning?
- How involved are you with posing or candid coaching?
- Can I get a full breakdown of exactly what’s included?
- How do you structure your backup systems for images?
- What’s one wedding you’ll never forget, and why?
- Do you have reviews or testimonials I can read?
- What’s your communication style like during the planning process?
Bonus: Don’t Let Trends Make Your Decision For You
True-to-color editing? Light and airy? Dark and moody? The real question is: what resonates with you? Editing trends come and go. But your photos should feel like you. If someone only edits in pastels and you’ve always loved bold, rich colors? That’s probably not your person, and that’s okay. It’s better to figure that out before you sign a contract.
“Tara was by far the BEST choice that we made about vendors for our entire wedding. She is so bubbly and fun and instantly puts anyone around her in the best mood. But more importantly, her photos are truly remarkable works of art! I literally could not say a single negative thing about Tara if I tried. I guarantee that you will not regret booking her!”
Final Truth: Your Photographer Should See You
You’re not hiring a vendor. You’re hiring a witness, a storyteller, a collaborator, and, yes, an artist. If you’re in the Dallas/Fort Worth area and this post made you say, “Oh shit, she gets it,” then maybe you just found yours, and you can check out more of my work here.
Or not. That’s okay, too. Whether we work together or not, I want you to walk into your wedding day knowing you’ve chosen the right person to tell your story. That’s the whole point.
Want to know how to read a photography contract, budget for your wedding photos, or prepare for your engagement session? Stay tuned. I’ve got more coming.
