Your wedding photos are more than mere Insta pics for every birthday and anniversary post for the foreseeable future—they’re heirlooms, memories of your love, and a lasting lens through which you’ll relive your best day ever. So how do you make sure you find a wedding photographer who not only nails the technical side of it all but also just gets your vibe? With so many talented pros out there in 2025, it’s all about knowing where to look, what to ask, and how to choose someone who feels like the right fit for you.

1. Start With a Curated Vendor Directory

It’s easy to get lost in an endless scroll of “wedding photographers near me.” Instead, head to a trusted source like the Pearl by David’s Vendor Directory, where you can browse verified wedding photographers in your area and beyond (hi, destination couples!). We feature vetted pros each with their own digital storefronts showcasing their work, packages, and reviews—all in one place.

2. Narrow Down Your Style

Do you love light and airy wedding photography? Maybe you lean rich, moody editorial wedding photos? Candid documentary shots? Spend some time scrolling Instagram, Pinterest, or real wedding blogs to identify what draws your eye (we’re personally loving blue hour photography ourselves). Knowing your preferred style will help you narrow your list to photographers who specialize in that aesthetic.

3. Check the Full Galleries

A few pics on a photographer’s Instagram may be gorgeous, but you want to know how a photographer captures an entire wedding day. Ask to see full galleries (or look for them on their website or Pearl by David’s storefront) to see how they handle everything from bright outdoor ceremonies to low-lit receptions.

4. Read Reviews—But Go Beyond the Stars

Yes, we love a good five-star rating. But in 2025, the smartest couples are digging even deeper. Look for specific feedback about their communication style, how the photographer made couples feel, and how they handled timeline pressure. Review sections on the Pearl by David’s platform often include real testimonials that offer insight into the experience, not just the result.

 5. Schedule a Face-to-Face (Or FaceTime)

Photography is personal. You’ll be spending an entire day with this person on the biggest day of your life—make sure your energies align! Set up a video call or coffee chat to gauge how comfortable you feel talking with them. Are they easygoing? Professional? Do they ask about your vision and priorities? All super important stuff to check off your list.

6. Ask the Right Questions

When you meet with potential photographers, don’t just ask about pricing (though that definitely is important to your budget). Make sure to ask:

• How do you handle digital file delivery and storage?
• Will you be the one shooting my wedding or do you work with associates?
• What’s your turnaround time and editing process?
• Do you offer sneak peeks or social media-ready images quickly?

7. Compare Packages Carefully

In 2025, wedding photography packages vary widely. Some include engagement sessions, second shooters, albums, drone coverage, or even short-form video reels for social media. Make sure you’re comparing every detail when reviewing pricing, then ask what can be customized.

8. Look for a Good Track Record (Not Just a Pretty Feed)

A consistent, reliable wedding pro will have more than just beautiful images. They’ll have a solid online presence, professional contracts, backup equipment, and references. On Pearl by David’s, vendor storefronts cover all the details so you can easily spot photographers who are legit.

9. Trust Your Gut (and Your Budget)

Found someone you love but they’re just over budget? If having this photographer is a top priority, it’s okay to ask if they have a smaller package or fewer hours available. But if it’s still out of reach, know that the right match is out there. Don’t ignore red flags or settle for a style that doesn’t feel right just to stay on budget.

10. Book Early—Photographers Fill Fast!

The top photographers often book 12–18 months out. Crazy, right? If your date is set and your venue is locked in, don’t wait. Use Pearl by David’s to vet and reach out to photographers directly—message them, view their work, and even request pricing info without leaving the site.

Finding the right wedding photographer in 2025 doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With trusted tools like Pearl by David’s, a little planning, and a whole lot of gut instinct, you’ll land someone who captures your day exactly the way you want to remember it.

Ready to start your search? Explore wedding photographers on Pearl by David’s now.

Looking for more inspo? Check out Pearl by David’s for all the latest trends, advice, and more.