How to Book Your Wedding Photographer Without Losing Your Mind (or Your Joy)

Let’s be honest. Wedding planning is a magical mix of excitement, Pinterest boards, group texts, and the occasional “wait… do we actually need this?” moment.

And somewhere in the middle of all that? You’re trying to book a wedding photographer.

Hi, I’m Lindsay of Lindsay Stayton Photography, and I’m here to gently remind you: this part doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In fact, it can feel pretty good—like checking off something that truly matters.

Let’s walk through how to book your wedding photographer with clarity, confidence, and maybe even a little joy along the way.

Step 1: Start With How You Want Your Day to Feel

Before you look at portfolios, prices, or packages, ask yourselves one simple question:

How do we want our wedding day to feel?

Calm and cozy?
Big and celebratory?
Intimate and emotional?
A little chaotic in the best way?

Your photographer is with you for more of your wedding day than almost anyone else. The right fit isn’t just about how their photos look—it’s about how you feel around them.

Step 2: Look for Consistency, Not Just Highlights

It’s easy to fall in love with a few stunning photos on social media. (I do it too.)

But when you’re choosing a photographer, look at full wedding galleries. That’s where you’ll see how they handle:

  • Different lighting situations

  • Real moments, not just posed ones

  • The flow of an entire day

You’re not hiring someone for a single photo. You’re trusting them with your whole story.

Step 3: Read the Reviews (Yes, the Real Ones)

One of the best ways to understand what it’s like to work with a photographer is to hear from people who already have.

Search for “Lindsay Stayton Photography Google reviews” (or any photographer you’re considering) and look for patterns in what couples say:

  • Did they feel comfortable?

  • Did communication feel easy?

  • Did the day feel supported, not rushed?

Photos matter. Experience matters just as much.

Step 4: Ask the Questions That Actually Matter to You

There’s no “right” list of questions—only the ones that help you feel confident.

Some gentle starters:

  • What’s your approach on a wedding day?

  • How do you help couples who feel awkward in front of a camera?

  • What does photo delivery look like after the wedding?

  • How involved are you in building the timeline?

If you leave the conversation feeling calmer than when you started, you’re probably in the right place.

Step 5: Think About Coverage, Not Just Hours

Instead of asking, “How many hours do we need?” try this:

What moments do we want remembered most?

Getting ready with your people?
The ceremony reactions?
The dance floor energy?
A quiet moment at sunset?

Once you know what matters most, it’s easier to choose coverage that actually fits your day instead of guessing.

Step 6: Trust Your Gut (It’s Smarter Than You Think)

If you feel:

  • Heard

  • Supported

  • Excited

  • At ease

That’s your sign.

You should feel like your photographer is on your team, not just another vendor on your checklist.

What Booking With Me Looks Like (In Real Life Terms)

When couples book Lindsay Stayton Photography, they usually tell me they felt:

  • Relieved

  • Confident

  • Taken care of

From our first conversation to gallery delivery, my goal is to make this part of planning feel simple, kind, and genuinely enjoyable.

No pressure. No rush. Just honest guidance and a whole lot of care.

A Gentle Reminder

There are a lot of talented photographers out there. The “best” one isn’t the one with the fanciest website or the biggest following.

It’s the one who makes you feel like you can fully be yourselves on one of the biggest days of your life.

Connect here

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re searching for a Milwaukee wedding photographer who leads with connection, calm, and real human energy, I’d love to hear about your plans.

Let’s talk about your day, your people, and what matters most to you. The rest tends to fall into place from there.

Previous
Previous

Your Engaged, now what?!

Next
Next

12 Month Wedding Planning Checklist