Wondering how to choose the perfect wedding photographer in West Michigan? Picking your wedding photographer is a big deal. Your photos will be the one thing (besides your love, of course!) that lasts long after the cake is eaten and the flowers have wilted. But with so many photographers out there, how do you know which one is right for you?

I’m sure you are already experiencing decision fatigue as you sift through all the vendors you’ll need to pull off the biggest party you’ve ever thrown. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry! I’ve been photographing weddings for over a decade, and I’m here to break it down into simple steps so you can confidently choose the perfect photographer for your big day. This approach will not only help you choose the perfect photographer, but can be helpful when choosing all of your wedding vendors.

Find a Photography Style You Love

Every photographer has their own unique approach, and you want to make sure their style aligns with your vision. Some popular styles you’ll see are:

• Light & Airy – Bright, soft, and pastel tones with an almost dreamy feel.

• Dark & Moody – Warm, deep shadows for a dramatic, cinematic look.

• True to Life (Vibrant & Timeless) – Colors that look just as they did in real life, with a natural, polished feel.

My style? Nothing trendy here. My focus is on creating vibrant, authentic, and timeless images. I want your photos to feel full of life and emotion and be an accurate representation of what those moments actually looked like—like you could step right back into that moment years from now.

When looking at photographers, be sure to check their websites, Instagram, and full galleries to make sure you love everything they deliver—not just a handful of highlights!

Set a Budget That Matches Your Priorities

Photography pricing can vary a lot, and in West Michigan, you’ll find wedding photographers ranging from $2,000 to $6,000+. When setting your budget, think about:

• How important photography is to you (Spoiler: It’s very important—these photos last forever!).

• What’s included in the pricing—things like hours of coverage, a second shooter, engagement session, and albums.

• The experience level of the photographer and the kind of service they provide.

• Are they running a legitimate business – do they have insurance, contracts, & safeguards to protect your images?

Your wedding photos are one of the only things that gain value over time (not necessarily monetary value, but sentimental). If photography is a priority, invest in a photographer whose work you love and who you completely trust to capture your day. You will always be able to find someone willing to work for less. But it’s been my experience that settling for less often ultimately leads to disappointment.

Do Your Research & Read the Reviews

Once you have an idea of your style and budget, start researching photographers in West Michigan. Look for:

• A website with a solid portfolio (Do you love their work across multiple weddings and locations, not just a few of their most impressive shots?)
• Rave reviews from past couples (Google and Facebook are great places to check!)
• A strong presence on Instagram or social media (Do you connect with their vibe and personality? Do you feel like you could be friends with this person in real life?)

You should always ask to see full wedding galleries! Instagram is a highlight reel, but a photographer’s real skill is shown in how they capture the entire day.

Ask the Right Questions Before Booking

Once you’ve found a wedding photographer in West Michigan (or two) you love, reach out to inquire about pricing and availability. But don’t stop there—make sure to ask questions. Some of the most important aspects you should feel comfortable with are:

• What’s included in your wedding packages? (Does this photographer offer everything you are wanting?)

• How do you handle different lighting situations (especially with Michigan’s unpredictable weather)? (Can this photographer use flash if necessary? Do their photos still look as beautiful on cloudy days as they do on sunny ones?)

• Can we see full wedding galleries from real weddings? (You want to make sure you are hiring someone that knows how to be a lead photographer; not just someone who has a bunch of pretty photos in their portfolio from styled shoots or second-shooting for other businesses.)

• How do you ensure nothing happens to our once-in-a-lifetime photos? (Does the photographer have professional grade gear that writes to multiple memory cards at once? How do they back up their images to safeguard against memory card or hard drive failure?)

• How do you help couples feel comfortable in front of the camera?

• What’s your approach on a wedding day—more hands-on or more candid?

My Approach: I’m all about guiding my couples in a way that feels natural—giving you just enough direction so you never feel awkward, but also stepping back to let real moments unfold. The result? Photos that look and feel authentically you.

Pay Attention to How They Make You Feel

Your wedding photographer is with you all day long, so it’s important that you actually like them! Ask yourself:

• Do they make you feel comfortable and excited?

• Do you trust them to give you advice and help you in your planning?

• Are they responsive, organized, and genuinely invested in your wedding?

• Do you feel like they “get” you and your vision?

The best wedding photographers don’t just deliver gorgeous photos—they make your whole experience smoother, from timeline planning to making sure you feel amazing in front of the camera.

Final Thoughts on Choosing a Wedding Photographer in West Michigan

Choosing a wedding photographer isn’t just about pretty pictures—it’s about finding someone who understands your vision and makes the whole process fun and stress-free. Take the time to research, ask the right questions, and most importantly, go with someone who feels like the perfect fit.

If you’re looking for a wedding photographer in West Michigan who will not only capture stunning, true-to-life images but also help you feel confident and comfortable every step of the way—I’d love to chat! Let’s connect!