Whether you’re looking at a downtown Chicago wedding or a Salvage One elopement, you probably already have a picture in mind for how your big day is going to look—and how you want it to be captured. 

Your wedding photos contain all the special moments and memories you want to remember for the rest of your life. That’s why it’s a detail you really shouldn’t overlook until the last minute of your planning.

Choosing the right wedding photographer makes all the difference! If you’re getting married in the Windy City, below are some tips to help you find your picture-perfect wedding photographer match. 

Research Online 

The best way to start any kind of wedding research in this day and age is by doing some digging online. Just take note that online directories can be a bit misleading. Most of the directories you’ll find via search engines are not 100% organic as they are, more often than not, a paid service. 

So, here’s a pro tip: try going through hashtags on Instagram or local searches on Google and read reviews from these photographers’ previous clients. 

Look for suppliers whose style resonates with you and who have experience shooting at venues similar to yours. This will give you a good idea of the photographer’s experience and expertise. 

Schedule Consultations 

Make a list of the top photographers you’re interested in and schedule some consultations in person or through online platforms like Zoom and Google Meet. Meeting your potential photographers in person is extremely crucial because this is how you’ll make sure that your personalities mesh well. 

You’ll be spending a lot of time with your photographer on your wedding day, so you want someone who is not only professional and talented, but also someone who you feel comfortable around. 

Ask a Ton of Questions 

During your consultation, don’t be afraid to ask all the questions that cross your mind! Get into the nitty-gritty details of the results you want to see. Ask about their shooting style, their approach to posing and directing, and what their favorite moments to capture are. 

Of course, don’t forget to ask about their packages and pricing as well! This will help you make sure that whoever you pick fits within your budget. 

Review Full Galleries 

One important factor to consider when choosing a wedding photographer is the quality and consistency of their work. You’ll encounter a lot of photographers who only showcase their best photos on Instagram or on their website. That’s why it’s so important to ask to see full galleries of their previous weddings to truly understand their style and level of consistency. 

Here at The Adamkovi, we take pride in delivering exceptional quality and consistency in every single photo we capture. We invest the time and effort on every photo to ensure that they are all amazing and print-quality. What you see on our Instagram is a true representation of what you can expect from us throughout your entire wedding coverage. 

Consider Their Knowledge of Chicago 

Another important factor to consider when choosing a wedding photographer in Chicago is their knowledge of the city. Chicago has many iconic locations and hidden gems for photography, so you want someone who knows the ins and outs of the city. They should be able to recommend great locations for photos based on your personal style and the vibe of your wedding. 

Trust Your Gut 

Last, but not least, remember to listen to your gut and trust it whenever it tells you something! If you have a good feeling about a photographer and you love their portfolio, chances are you’ll be happy with their work on your wedding day. 

Extra Tips 

In addition to the tips above, there are a few extra things you can do to ensure you find the perfect wedding photographer for you. 

Book Early 

Make sure to book your wedding or elopement photographer early. Popular wedding photographers in Chicago can get booked up years in advance, so don’t wait too long to start your search! 

Be Clear About What You Want 

Be clear about what you want. Do you want formal posed shots, candid moments, or a mixture of both? Make sure your photographer understands your vision and can deliver on it. 

Ensure Clear Communication 

Make sure you’re comfortable with the photographer’s communication style. They should be responsive and easy to get a hold of throughout the planning process. 

Read the Contract Carefully 

Before signing any kind of contract, make sure you read it carefully and understand all the details. Pay attention to the pricing, cancellation policies, and the number of hours of coverage included. If anything is unclear, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification before signing. 

Consider Engagement Photos 

Many photographers offer engagement photo sessions as part of their packages. This is a great opportunity to get to know your photographer before your wedding day and to get comfortable in front of the camera. Plus, you’ll have some beautiful photos to use for your save-the-dates or wedding website! 

The Perfect Wedding Day Snaps Start With The Right Photographer 

Finding the perfect wedding photographer in the Windy City takes a bit of research and some legwork, but trust us, it’s well worth it in the end! 

Remember to do your research, ask for referrals and references, and most importantly, trust your instincts. Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and choosing the right photographer can ensure that those memories are captured beautifully and cherished forever.

So go ahead and take that first step towards finding your perfect match! Happy hunting! 

If you’re looking for a Chicago-based wedding photographer who’ll make you feel comfortable in front of the camera on your wedding day, check out our work and schedule a consultation with us in person or via Zoom. 

Written by Katie Pierce.