Your wedding day is one of the most special moments of your life, and capturing it beautifully requires the right photographer. From traditional shots to breathtaking aerial photography, finding a wedding photographer who aligns with your style and budget can feel overwhelming.

This guide will walk you through the key steps to find a wedding photographer and even how to incorporate aerial photography for a unique perspective on your big day.

1. Determine Your Photography Style

Before starting your search, define the wedding photography style you love. Some popular options include:

• Traditional – Classic posed shots with a timeless feel.
• Photojournalistic (Candid) – Natural, storytelling moments.
• Fine Art – Creative, elegant, and editorial-style photography.
• Dark & Moody – Emphasizes deep tones and dramatic lighting.
• Bright & Airy – Soft, romantic, and natural-looking.
• Aerial Photography – Captures breathtaking overhead views with a drone.

With advancements in drone technology, aerial photography has become a stunning way to showcase your venue, outdoor ceremony, or dramatic wedding day moments.

2. Set Your Budget

Wedding photography pricing varies based on experience, location, and add-ons like aerial photography. Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Budget-friendly ($500-$1,500) – Newer photographers or smaller packages.
• Mid-range ($2,000-$4,000) – Experienced professionals with quality equipment.
• Luxury ($5,000-$10,000+) – High-end photographers specializing in editorial and cinematic shots.

If you want aerial photography, some wedding photographers offer drone services, while others may require you to hire a separate drone pilot.

3. Search for a Wedding Photographer

To find a wedding photographer, explore these options:

• Google Search – Look for photographers in your area with great reviews.
• Instagram & Pinterest – Search hashtags like #WeddingPhotographer [YourCity] or #[YourVenue]Wedding.
• Wedding Directories – Browse trusted wedding photography directories:
  • The Knot
  • WeddingWire
  • Zola
• Word of Mouth – Ask recently married friends or wedding vendors.
• Drone Pilot Locator – If your wedding photographer doesn’t offer drone services, use Drone Pilot Locator to find a certified drone pilot for aerial photography.

Adding drone footage to your wedding photography can create cinematic and breathtaking memories—especially for outdoor weddings, beachfront ceremonies, and large estates.

4. Review Portfolios & Testimonials

A photographer’s portfolio is key in determining their skill and style. Look for:

✅ Consistency in editing and composition.
✅ Experience with venues similar to yours.
✅ Comfort in directing couples for posed and candid shots.
✅ Reviews that mention professionalism and reliability.

For aerial photography, ask to see previous drone footage or images. If hiring a separate drone pilot, confirm their experience in shooting weddings.

5. Schedule Interviews & Ask Key Questions

Once you have a shortlist of photographers and drone pilots, set up consultations and ask:

• How would you describe your photography style?
• Have you shot weddings at our venue before?
• Do you offer drone photography, or should we book a separate pilot?
• How do you handle challenging lighting conditions?
• What is your turnaround time for edited photos?

For aerial photography, ensure the drone pilot has the necessary certifications and understands FAA regulations.

6. Understand Package Inclusions

Photography packages vary, so clarify:

📷 Coverage Hours – How long will the photographer be available?
📷 Drone Services – Is aerial photography included or available as an add-on?
📷 Engagement Session – Is a pre-wedding shoot included?
📷 Editing & Delivery – How many edited images will you receive?
📷 Prints & Albums – Are physical prints or albums included?

If booking a drone pilot separately, confirm their package includes high-resolution stills and video footage.

7. Book Early & Secure Your Date

Popular photographers and drone pilots book up fast—often a year or more in advance. Once you’ve found your ideal wedding photographer and drone pilot, secure them with a signed contract and deposit.

Bonus Tip: If you’re on a budget, consider weekday or off-season weddings for potential discounts on photography and drone services.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right wedding photographer is essential to preserving your special day. Whether you prefer traditional photography or want to enhance your memories with aerial photography, taking the time to research and hire the right professionals will ensure stunning wedding photos.

By following these steps—and using tools like Drone Pilot Locator to find certified drone pilots—you can capture every breathtaking angle of your wedding day.

Start your search today:

📸 Find a wedding photographer on The Knot
📸 Browse WeddingWire for photographers
📸 Discover vendors on Zola
🚁 Hire a drone pilot for aerial wedding photography