Your wedding day is everything. It’s the day you’ve dreamed about, planned down to the tiniest detail, and shared with the people you love most. But here’s the hard truth: no matter how stunning the flowers are or how perfect the dress fits, the only thing that lasts beyond the day (besides your marriage!) is your wedding photos. And those photos? They’re the gateway to reliving the joy, laughter, and beauty of that moment over and over again. That’s why you’ll want to read this Colorado Wedding Photographer Guide to find the perfect photographer.
That’s why I can’t stress enough how crucial it is to do your research when hiring a wedding photographer. I learned this lesson the hard way—and I want to help you avoid the heartbreak I experienced.
My Wedding Photography Nightmare
Let me start by saying: I get it. When I got married, I thought I was doing everything right. I trusted a fellow photographer friend to handle my wedding photos because, well, they were a friend and we have photographed many weddings and photo sessions together. I didn’t dive into their experience, ask to see their full galleries, or check to see if they had wedding-specific expertise. I assumed they’d do a great job, and I handed over my trust without hesitation.
The result? I created this Colorado Wedding Photographer Guide because the harsh reality is—my wedding photos didn’t capture the magic of the day. Key moments were missed, the lighting was off, and I was left with pictures that didn’t reflect the love and excitement we felt. To this day, it’s a sore spot—one I don’t want any couple to experience.
That experience is why I’m so passionate about helping couples find photographers who get it—professionals who will capture your day with the care and artistry it deserves.
1. Colorado Wedding Photographer Guide: Experience Matters More Than You Think
Let’s be real—weddings are a beast. There are tight timelines, family dynamics, and unpredictable moments. You need someone who’s not only a talented photographer but also an expert in managing the chaos of a wedding day.
An experienced wedding photographer knows how to handle everything from harsh lighting at midday to tricky family portraits and even unexpected rain showers. They’re not just taking pictures; they’re preserving memories. Explore my real client galleries to see how professional photographers work across different scenarios. Make sure to dig into their experience, especially with weddings, to ensure they can handle the fast-paced environment without missing a beat.
2. Licensed and Insured = True Professionalism
One thing I wish I had thought to check? Whether my photographer was licensed and insured. These two things are non-negotiable if you want to work with a professional.
- Licensing shows they take their business seriously.
- Insurance protects you (and them) in case of accidents or issues on the wedding day.
Many venues require photographers to provide proof of insurance, and if your photographer doesn’t have it, they might not even be allowed to work at your venue! It’s worth asking upfront—it’s not just about legalities, it’s about peace of mind.
3. Look at Full Galleries, Not Just Highlights
Photographers know how to showcase their best work on Instagram or their website. And while those dreamy, perfectly composed shots are gorgeous, they don’t tell the whole story.
Ask to see full wedding galleries from start to finish. Why? Because that’s how you’ll see their ability to consistently capture moments throughout the day—not just the Pinterest-worthy ones. Pay attention to:
- How they handle different lighting situations.
- Whether they capture candid moments as well as posed shots.
- If their editing style is consistent and timeless.
4. Don’t Skip Reviews and Testimonials
I skipped this step with my own wedding photographer, thinking, “Oh, I know them; it’ll be fine.” Big mistake. Reviews from past clients are one of the best ways to get a sense of what it’s really like to work with a photographer.
Start by reading reviews on Google—it’s a great place to find honest feedback. Then, take it a step further: check if the photographer is registered in their state. Being registered as a business adds credibility and shows they take their work seriously.
Platforms like WeddingWire and The Knot require photographers to pay to be listed, so not every professional will appear there. While these platforms can be helpful for some, don’t rely solely on them to gauge a photographer’s reputation. A quick online search, verification of their business registration, and—most importantly—a consultation video call will give you a more accurate picture of their professionalism.
A consultation call is your opportunity to see how they communicate, ask questions about their process, and ensure their personality is a good fit for you. Do they seem organized? Do they listen to your vision? This conversation is invaluable and can reveal whether they’ll truly deliver on your expectations.
When reading reviews and during your call, look for consistent feedback about:
- Their professionalism.
- How they handle stress or unexpected challenges.
- Whether they delivered the final product on time and as promised.
Red flags might not be obvious unless you dig a little deeper, so don’t be afraid to ask questions if something seems unclear.
5. Understand the Value in Coverage: Colorado Wedding Photographer Guide
At first glance, $600 for 8 hours sounds like the deal of the century, right!? Wrong. Wedding photography is so much more than just showing up with a camera. Wedding photography is an investment—full stop. It’s not just about hiring someone to take pictures; it’s about paying for their time, expertise, and artistry. When reviewing packages, make sure you fully understand what’s included.
- How many hours of coverage will they provide?
- Are engagement sessions, albums, or second shooters included?
- Do they charge extra for travel?
- Will you receive high-resolution edited photos?
This isn’t about nickel-and-diming—it’s about transparency. The last thing you want is to discover hidden fees after the fact.
6. Make Sure You Click
Your photographer is going to be with you during some of the most intimate and emotional moments of your wedding day. That first look? They’re there. The tears during your vows? They’re right in front of you. I know, I know, I’ve said it before—but this Colorado Wedding Photographer Guide will seriously be your ultimate wedding day lifesaver!
You need to feel comfortable with them, and that’s why personality and compatibility are huge. Schedule a consultation or phone call to get a sense of their vibe. Are they calm and organized? Excited and supportive? You want someone who feels like a friend cheering you on while still maintaining complete professionalism.
7. Licensed, Insured, and Experienced Photographers Deliver Results
If there’s one thing I want you to take away from this, it’s that hiring a licensed, insured, and experienced photographer isn’t just a box to check—it’s the key to ensuring your memories are preserved beautifully. These photographers have systems in place to keep everything running smoothly, from contracts and payment to backup equipment and contingency plans.
8. Photos Are Forever—Now so is this Colorado Wedding Photographer Guide
Your wedding photos are the only tangible thing you’ll have to remember your day. They’ll hang on your walls, fill your albums, and be passed down to future generations. They deserve to be nothing less than amazing.
Don’t Make My Mistake—Do Your Research!
If I could go back in time, I’d do things differently. I’d dig deeper, ask questions, and hire someone who could truly capture the photos that meant the most to me and emotion of my wedding day. Learn from my experience and take the time to find a photographer who checks all the boxes: experienced, licensed, insured, and someone you connect with. I wrote this Colorado Wedding Photographer Guide to help prevent what I went through with my own wedding photos. Learn what professional wedding coverage should include.
Remember, you’re not just hiring a photographer—you’re investing in your memories. Do your research, and trust me, your future self will thank you.
