How to Choose the Right West Virginia Wedding Photographer For You

Planning your wedding day in West Virginia? With its mountain views and tranquil natural beauty, the state provides an idyllic backdrop for memorable wedding photos. But with so many West Virginia wedding photographers to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. My guide will help you find the perfect photographer for your special day.

Tip #1: Research and Make a List of Potential Photographers

The best way to begin your search for the right West Virginia wedding photographer is to research the various photographers in the area. Use online directories, social media pages, and personal recommendations to compile a list of potential candidates. Once you have your list, take time to review their portfolios and websites to make sure they offer the style, quality, and professionalism you’re looking for in a wedding photographer.

Tip #2: Check Out the Photography Style of Potential Photographers

Photography styles can vary significantly from one photographer to the next, so it’s important to look for a style that fits with your own personal vision for your wedding photos. Do you enjoy a photojournalistic style or more editorial? Do you prefer posed romantic shots or more natural candid ones? Do you need a photographer who can capture portraits, detail shots, and wide environmental views? Consider what kind of photography will best document your special day and find a West Virginia wedding photographer that matches your style. Then, take some time to really review each of the chosen photographers’ portfolios before you decide to reach out.

Tip #3: Contact Potential Photographers to Ask About Packages and Availability

Once you have a good list of potential photographers and you've reviewed their portfolios, it’s time to reach out and get the details. Ask each photographer about the wedding packages/collections they offer and their availability on your big day. Make sure to clearly explain what you’re looking for so that the photographer is able to give you an accurate idea of prices. Now is also a good time to ask if they have any experience shooting at your specific West Virginia wedding venue (if that is an important factor to you) and/or if they are familiar with any local spots in the area that could make great backdrops for photos.

Tip #4: Schedule a PRE-BOOKING CONSULTATION With Potential Photographers

Once you've narrowed down your list, whether it's in person, over the phone, or over zoom, you should take advantage of a pre-booking consultation when given the option. (Of course, it's always best to meet with them face-to-face before signing a contract.)

These meetings are so important for both you and the photographer because they serve as a low-pressure way to get to know each other a little bit before anyone makes a financial commitment. During the meeting, you can gain a better sense of the photographer’s personality and style, as well as ask any questions you may have about their portfolio and experience. Keep in mind, your photographer will be spending more time with/on you than any other wedding vendor - before, on, and after your wedding day - so it's important that you vibe well together. Trust your intuition and go with your gut feeling so that you end up choosing the perfect West Virginia wedding photographer for you who will be there to capture all of your dream moments!

Tip #5: Consider How You'll View & Receive Your Images After the Wedding Day

Make sure to ask each potential wedding photographer what method of delivery they use for their galleries and what the general turnaround time is for receiving your images after your wedding day. (3-4 months seems to be standard these days)

You can also ask each photographer if they provide a sneak peek of your gallery in the meantime. Some may provide you with a few highlight images while others may provide you a small gallery, but these should be received within a week or so of your wedding.

Knowing when you will receive all of your digital images provides you with an opportunity to plan what you will do with them, such as create custom prints or albums. If prints or albums are important to you, make sure that the photographer you choose offers these services, as they can be more expensive than just receiving digital files alone.