There are many misconceptions when searching for a wedding photographer that can lead to having a bad experience on your wedding day. 

Here are the 10 Most Common Misconceptions about Wedding Photography:

1. Your Friend or Family Member Can Take the Photos: 

In order to save money on wedding expenses, couples choose to have a friend or family member take their photos. This can lead to disaster. It's not likely the friend or family member is experienced with all the nuances that come with wedding photography. It's not just snapping a few photos - it's a day full of coordinating, posing, key timing, and understanding lighting scenarios.

2. A Photographer Will Mimic Any Style:

Each photographer has their unique style (e.g., documentary, traditional, fine art). Couples often expect a photographer to be flexible in adapting to their preferences, but it’s essential to choose one whose style aligns with your vision.

3. Social Media Photos Are Realistic Representations:

A lot of couples choose photographers based solely on their social media presence. However, Instagram or other social platforms often showcase the best moments, and may not represent the full range of work they can provide. Make sure to check out the photographer's website or portfolio to get a better feel of their work overall.

4. Photographers Can Always Work With Any Lighting or Situation:

While experienced photographers can handle challenging lighting, some photographers are not as well versed in lighting. It's important to discuss your venue and expectations beforehand.

5. You Can Get the Same Photos From Any Photographer:

Every photographer brings their unique perspective, equipment, and editing style. Even though other photographers might have similar tools, their approach to capturing moments and post-production editing will differ.

6. The Photographer Is Just There to Take Pictures:

A wedding photographer does much more than snap photos. They help guide you through the day, manage the timeline, and sometimes even act as a coordinator to ensure everything runs smoothly.

7. You Can Always Get the “Perfect” Shot:

Some couples expect that every shot will be flawless, but photography depends on variables like timing, light, and emotion. Perfection in every single image is rarely possible, and many great moments are spontaneous and can be hard to recreate.

8. You Don’t Need a Second Shooter:

Some couples feel a second shooter is unnecessary, but having one allows for more angles, coverage of different moments (like the groom's preparation or guest interactions), and a better overall story of the day.

9. Photographer Packages are all the Same:

Some couples think that by booking a photographer, everything from albums to prints to digital files will be included. Always clarify what’s part of the package and what’s an additional cost or upgrade.

10. You Only Need a Photographer for the Ceremony:

While the ceremony is often the highlight, you’ll want a photographer to capture moments throughout the day—getting ready, portraits, candid moments, the reception, and everything in between. You never know when a special moment is going to occur.

Be sure to avoid these common mistakes when choosing the photographer who is capturing one of your life's most special days.