Choosing a wedding photographer can feel overwhelming. There are so many options, and everyone’s feed looks beautiful, but how do you find someone who fits you and your day? For me, the right photographer isn’t just about the pictures they take; it’s about the experience they create, the moments they notice, and the care they bring to your wedding day. Your photos should capture your story, but your photographer should also be someone you trust to have your back.

When I work with couples, I strive to be like a friend they can count on. From the first consultation to the final gallery delivery, I want couples to feel seen, supported, and understood. Part of that means making the day feel effortless. I create detailed timelines with my brides so we know exactly what needs to be captured and when, and I help keep family members on track. For example, if a family member wants a photo during a time when we’re focused on the couple, I step in gently to advocate for the bride while making sure everyone knows we’ll get that shot later. It’s about keeping the day flowing without missing the moments that truly matter.

One of my favorite parts of being a wedding photographer is stepping back and letting the couple experience moments fully, without interruptions. I remember shooting a first look recently: a quiet, emotional moment on a hill behind the venue with the Blue Ridge Mountains as a backdrop. I told both Julia and Liam that this was their moment. I would stay in the background and only approach when they were ready. They didn’t have to worry about posing or timing; they just got to experience it. By prioritizing the couple’s experience over the photograph itself, I was able to capture images that feel authentic, timeless, and deeply emotional.

Another example of how I support couples on their wedding day happened just last month when a bride was worried about rain. The ceremony had been moved inside, and I could tell she was disappointed because she’d imagined being outdoors. I reassured her that I would advocate for her if she wanted to make a change, and I stayed attentive to her needs, offering guidance and support wherever it was needed. That’s the type of care I believe is essential when choosing a photographer: someone who’s there for you, not just for the camera.

When it comes to selecting a wedding photographer, there are a few key things to consider:

Style: Does their work feel like you? Are the photos timeless, cinematic, or candid? Look beyond the perfectly curated feed and see real weddings they’ve shot, full wedding galleries.
Personality & Connection: You’ll spend your entire day with your photographer. Feeling comfortable, trusting them, and enjoying their company makes all the difference.
Experience & Expertise: A great photographer knows how to navigate lighting, timing, and the unexpected moments that inevitably happen on a wedding day.
Trust: You need to feel confident that your photographer will advocate for you, manage logistics smoothly, and capture the moments that matter most.

Birds Eye View of a Bride and Groom's First Dance

I find that couples who feel supported and understood end up with photos that truly reflect their story. That’s why I prioritize building a connection before the wedding, understanding what’s important to them, and guiding the day so they can focus on their love, not the logistics. Your photos should tell your story, but your wedding experience should feel natural, joyful, and meaningful.

If you’re searching for a Central Pennsylvania or upstate South Carolina wedding photographer who blends luxury, timelessness, and emotional storytelling while making your wedding day feel effortless, I’d love to connect. Choosing the right photographer isn’t just about the images, it’s about the experience you have while making them.