If you’ve found your way to this blog, chances are you’re on the exciting journey of choosing your wedding photographer—which means congratulations are in order on your engagement! This is such a joyful time, and selecting your photographer is one of those delightful milestones in the planning process (at least, I think so).


That said, with so many talented photographers out there, it’s easy to feel a little overwhelmed. Finding someone who aligns with your vision, style, and personality is key, so I’ve put together a few tips to help you make the perfect choice.

(And of course, if that turns out to be me, I’d be honoured—but no pressure if not!)

Beautiful bridal portrait in a vintage indoor setting with soft window light.
Romantic garden ceremony with couple standing under a floral arch covered in pink roses.

Choosing Your Wedding Photographer



1. Decide on Your Favourite Wedding Photography Style


Wedding photography isn’t a “one size fits all” service. Every photographer has their own unique style, so before booking anyone, it’s important to take some time to reflect on the kind of photography that resonates with you and will perfectly complement your special day.

Broadly speaking, photography styles can be grouped into categories like traditional, contemporary, editorial, and reportage photography. While these terms (along with creative or documentary) are often used quite flexibly, Bridebook offers a fantastic write-up that explains these styles in detail.


Personally, I don’t like to box myself into a single category. I’d describe my approach as modern documentary photography with a touch of editorial elegance, an abundance of joy, and a sprinkle of luxury. My aim is always to capture your day as it unfolds naturally, with a relaxed, informal style that focuses on the authentic emotions and moments. I also have a deep appreciation for the beauty in those finer details and always look forward to capturing the magical bride and groom portraits—especially during the golden light of sunset. You can learn more about my approach here.


Photography Editing Style

When it comes to wedding photography, style isn’t just about how moments are captured on the day—it’s also about how the final images are brought to life through editing. A photographer’s editing style defines the mood and tone of their work, making it just as important as their ability to capture those fleeting moments.

As you research photographers, you’ll notice a variety of editing styles. Some favour soft, light, and airy tones, while others gravitate towards rich contrast or dark, atmospheric imagery. There’s no “right” choice—it all comes down to what feels like the perfect fit for you.

It’s crucial to find a photographer whose editing style you genuinely love. Their artistic vision is part of what makes their work unique, and asking them to completely alter it would be like commissioning a painter to create a masterpiece and then dictating their palette. That’s why choosing someone whose overall aesthetic aligns with your vision is so important.


To get started, explore your favourite wedding imagery on platforms like Pinterest or Instagram. Pay attention to the tones, colours, and feelings that stand out to you. Understanding what draws you in will make it much easier to pinpoint the photographers whose work matches your vision—and ultimately find the perfect partner to document your day.


Bride Squad enjoying champagne wearing brightly coloured pyjamas bride wearing beautiful floral satin saying cheers celebrating
Bride putting on a gift received from groom surrounded by bridesmaids
Beautiful portrait of happy smiling bride with stunning bouquet of English country garden blossoms natural relaxed wedding photography

2. Make Wedding Photography a Key Part of Your Budget


It’s no secret that setting a clear budget is essential for a smooth wedding planning process. It keeps everything organised and ensures you’re prepared for the costs involved. When allocating your budget, don’t overlook the importance of photography—this is one area where cutting corners can lead to regrets.

Your wedding photos will become cherished keepsakes, preserving the emotions and moments of your special day. While it may be tempting to save by asking a friend or relative to step in, there’s no substitute for a professional. A skilled wedding photographer brings experience, creativity, and reliability, along with essential tools like backup equipment and insurance to ensure everything runs smoothly.


Understanding the Cost of Wedding Photography

You may wonder why wedding photographers can be one of the higher-cost suppliers. Their pricing reflects much more than just showing up with a camera on the day. It includes years of expertise, countless hours of editing, and added extras like custom packaging, second shooters, and travel. Every image is carefully crafted to ensure the story of your wedding is captured with care and artistry.

The wonderful thing about wedding photography is the variety of professionals available at different price points. However, it’s worth approaching very low-cost options with caution. Prices under £1,000 for full-day coverage are often a red flag, as they may not include the quality, preparation, or experience you deserve.


Finding the Right Photographer for Your Budget

Once you’ve determined how much you’re happy to invest in photography, narrowing down your options becomes much simpler. Focus on photographers whose style, experience, and approach resonate with you and align with your budget. This ensures you’ll feel confident knowing you’ve chosen someone who can beautifully capture your day.

(By the way, if you’re curious about my packages, feel free to check out my Pricing page - transparency is something I pride ourselves on!)


Bride swirling and dancing with Remenham Court wedding venue behind Henley on Thames Vicky Lewis Wedding Photographer
Bride swirling and dancing with Remenham Court wedding venue behind Henley on Thames Vicky Lewis Wedding Photographer
Bride swirling and dancing with Remenham Court wedding venue behind Henley on Thames Vicky Lewis Wedding Photographer
Bride and groom kissing with Remenham Court wedding venue behind Henley on Thames Vicky Lewis Wedding Photographer

3. Get to Know Your Wedding Photographer

So, you’ve discovered a wedding photographer whose work you absolutely love—whether it’s on Instagram, Pinterest, or their website. That’s a fantastic start! But now comes the crucial next step: getting to know the person behind the camera. Your wedding photographer isn’t just there to take beautiful pictures; they’ll be by your side throughout one of the most important days of your life. It’s vital that you feel comfortable with them—not only as a professional but also as a person.


Should You Meet Your Photographer in Person?

Ideally, yes! Meeting in person over coffee (or something stronger!) is a wonderful way to see if you click. A strong connection ensures that your photographer feels like a trusted friend, contributing to the positive energy of your day. However, if busy schedules or long distances make an in-person meeting difficult, virtual alternatives like Zoom or FaceTime are excellent options. From personal experience, I'm often much more available to do that instead.

As a luxury wedding photographer serving couples across Oxfordshire, the Cotswolds, and beyond, I understand how busy life can be during wedding planning. That’s why I aim to make the process as seamless as possible. My website, social media, and brochure are thoughtfully curated to give you a glimpse of my personality and approach. By exploring these, you can get a feel for who I am and how I work before we even meet.


How to Get a Sense of Your Photographer

Start by diving into their “About Me” page, reading their blog, or watching their Instagram Stories. This will give you a sense of their personality, approach, and whether they’re the kind of person you’d enjoy having by your side on your wedding day.

When couples reach out to me after spending time exploring my work and story, it’s always a special moment. It shows we’re aligned in vision and values—a strong sign that we’ll get along wonderfully on your big day.

So, whether we connect over coffee, Zoom, or a phone call, getting to know your wedding photographer is an essential step in creating a seamless, luxurious experience for your wedding. Let’s make sure we’re the perfect fit to capture the magic of your celebration.



4. Explore Testimonials and Reviews

When selecting a wedding photographer, it’s essential to rely on more than just their portfolio. While stunning imagery is crucial, the true testament to a photographer’s value often lies in the experiences of previous clients.

A collection of glowing testimonials and five-star reviews is a strong indicator that a photographer consistently delivers exceptional service and results. Whether through Instagram, Google Reviews, Facebook, or on their website, reviews offer invaluable insight into what you can expect from your photographer on your wedding day.

As you read through the feedback from past couples, pay attention to recurring themes. Were clients impressed by the photographer’s ability to make everyone feel relaxed and at ease? Did they find the photographer’s approach professional, friendly, and efficient? Did the photographer deliver stunning images on time, without any stress or hassle?

Taking the time to review what others have said will help you gain a deeper understanding of the photographer’s approach, personality, and professionalism, ensuring you make the best choice for your luxury wedding experience.

Stunning wedding dress hanging up before bride puts on grand manor house setting English country wedding Vicky Lewis Photography

5. Consider Booking an Engagement Shoot

Many of my wedding collections include an engagement shoot, but if you're considering a photographer who offers pre-wedding sessions as an add-on, I highly recommend it—especially if your budget allows. Booking an engagement session ahead of time provides a valuable opportunity to experience your photographer’s style and see how well you connect.

Engagement shoots are a fantastic way to relax and get comfortable being in front of the camera, especially for couples who may not naturally feel at ease. I always enjoy these sessions because they allow for a more relaxed, fun environment where we can create beautiful, intimate photos in a casual setting.

Is an Engagement Shoot Necessary?

While engagement shoots are not essential, they offer wonderful benefits. They’re included in many of my comprehensive wedding collections, which cater to couples seeking a seamless photography experience. However, whether you choose an engagement shoot or not, it’s a great way to ease into your wedding day portraits and build a stronger rapport with your photographer.

An engagement session allows you to explore a meaningful location—whether it’s where you had your first date, the spot you got engaged, or your wedding venue. It’s the perfect opportunity to capture stunning professional photos for your Save the Dates or wedding invitations, all while helping you feel more relaxed and confident ahead of the big day.

Ultimately, an engagement shoot is a fantastic way to ensure you’re comfortable in front of the camera, helping you feel more at ease when the wedding day arrives.

Choosing Your Wedding Photographer


When it comes to choosing your wedding photographer, thorough research is key. There are always different factors to weigh, including photography style and the personality of the photographer, which should align with both you and your future spouse. The right photographer will make all the difference in capturing your day authentically and beautifully.

By considering these five essential tips—and trusting your instincts—you’ll be well on your way to making an informed decision that feels right for you both.



If you're looking for a photographer who combines creativity, a fun, relaxed vibe, and a touch of luxury, based in Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds, we may just be the perfect match.

relaxed wedding photography by Vicky Lewis bride and groom laughing naturally
Very attractive bride and groom laughing and standing by large impressive hedge at Friars Court Wedding Venue in Clanfield Oxfordshire
Very attractive bride and groom laughing and looking at each other on a bridge at Friars Court Wedding Venue in Clanfield Oxfordshire
Romantic moment between bride groom he holds her face and gently kisses her evening photography beautifully lit Vicky Lewis Photography
Bride showing how beautiful the back of her dress is photographed inside lit with studio light professional photographer Vicky Lewis
Le Manoir aux Quat Saisons | Raymond Blanc, Oxford wedding with attractive mature couple standing in embrace with manor house behind

I've really enjoyed writing this blog - hope you enjoyed it too ❤️


Le Manoir aux Quat Saisons | Raymond Blanc, Oxford wedding with attractive mature couple standing in embrace with manor house behind

If you feel inspired, please get in touch to see if I'm that Wedding Photographer you are looking for... www.vickyphotography.co.uk

Le Manoir aux Quat Saisons | Raymond Blanc, Oxford wedding with attractive mature couple standing in embrace with manor house behind

I've really enjoyed writing this blog - hope you enjoyed it too ❤️


Le Manoir aux Quat Saisons | Raymond Blanc, Oxford wedding with attractive mature couple standing in embrace with Japanese garden behind

If you feel inspired, please get in touch to see if I'm that Wedding Photographer you are looking for... www.vickyphotography.co.uk