Kelly Lemon Photography: How to Find the Right Photographer for You

Finding the photographer that fits both you and your celebration isn’t as easy as googling “photographer” and choosing the first one that fits your budget. Luckily, Tapestry Event Co. has asked photographer extraordinaire, Kelly Lemon, to share her expertise and experience on how couples most successfully find the right photographers who fit their personalities, their needs, their values, and their style. Take it away, Kelly!

— Kelleen, Content Manager of Tapestry Event Co.

A husband and wife staring into each other’s eyes while standing in a grassy field. The husband has his hand on the wife’s face. He is wearing a blue suit. She is wearing a white dress and is holding a white and green bouquet.

LET’S START WITH THE BASICS.

Just like any investment, research and due diligence are necessary. The first thing you should do is make sure that your photographer is credible. Do they have a portfolio with updated, new photos? Making sure that your photographer has a good track record will make your experience so much better! However, having a great portfolio isn’t the only thing to consider. Hiring an experienced and established photographer who is running their business with integrity and intelligence is key! You'll want to find a photographer who sends a solid contract, responds to emails promptly, and shows they prioritize good customer service.

A husband and wife standing at an altar between two trees in the forest and under an over-sized wreath made of fern leaves. They are kissing after being pronounced married!
A husband and wife kissing while holding hands and walking on a gravel trail in the woods.

STYLE.

Look at a variety of photographers' editing styles, artistic eye, and imagery. Ask yourself…

  • Do their images make you feel something?

  • Do you see yourself in their images, where you can picture your own wedding day looking like that?  

  • Do you feel you'll love the editing 10 years from now or is the editing too deep into a current trend that the images won't be timeless?  

I am always looking to see how they capture emotion and story lines more than Instagram trends. Once you narrow down the overall style you are drawn to, ask to see a few full galleries to make sure the quality is consistent throughout the whole day. Different lighting scenarios will always be a factor on event day and you want to be sure your photographer has experience handling a variety of scenarios.

A husband and wife walking on a small trail in their wedding clothes through an ivy-covered forest. The wife is leading the charge with the husband close behind with her bouquet.

PERSONALITY.

This is a key factor! Your photographer is the person that, besides your partner, you'll spend the most time with on your wedding day! Having a natural connection is so important. I always recommend jumping on a call to see if you personally feel comfortable with them because it will really enhance your experience on the wedding day! It is very normal to feel uncomfortable, awkward, or shy at first when taking photos professionally. Creating a solid connection with your photographer allows you to create trust and relax in front of the camera. This will make the final photos SO much better.

A bride and groom standing at an altar between two trees laughing. They are holding hands. The wedding party next to them are also laughing. The officiant is looking away for a moment to laugh as well.
A different angle of the wedding party, the bride, the groom, and the officiant chuckling at a joke during a ceremony in the woods.

EXPERIENCED.

If you want to elope out in nature, booking a city photographer might not be the perfect fit! Find someone who is an expert in the environment you are looking for when choosing your elopement location. Hiring a photographer that is experienced in navigating this terrain and is comfortable with the ever changing factors that surround elopements is critical to a great client / vendor relationship. Having your photographer come prepared with back up plans and a chill / excited "we got this" attitude will ensure you have an AMAZING day no matter what mother nature has in store for you.

Images courtesy of Kelly Lemon Photography.

Images courtesy of Kelly Lemon Photography.

VALUES.

Book a photographer that has values that align with yours! For example: 

  • I think it is important to treat everyone with kindness and empathy. 

  • I want to show couples that outdoor elopements are accessible for everyone (no matter their fitness level or if they have a physical difference)

  • I only want to support and promote businesses that are ethical and fair wage.

  • I deeply respect the outdoors and want to educate my couples how we can celebrate their wedding in a way that aligns with the Leave No Trace values.  

When you find a photographer that shares the values that matter most, you are taking part in a deeper conversation and this will enhance your experience because you can really believe in their business and approach!

Lastly, your wedding photographer can have a strong influence on the day. They are the person you spend the most time with and the images will be the one thing that lasts after the day, so take your time to find that perfect fit and follow your gut!  And then - be proud! You are wisely investing in your wedding experience by hiring your dream photographer. When you walk away with breathtaking images that take you back to relive those memories over and over again - you'll be so glad you did!

— Kelly Lemon, Owner + Creative Boss of Kelly Lemon Photography

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