Choosing a wedding photographer in Chicago is one of the most important decisions for your big day. The person you choose will be responsible for capturing the memories you’ll treasure forever. While checking out a photographer’s website is a great first step, it’s not enough to make a well-rounded decision. Here are seven additional ways to research and ensure you’re hiring the best Chicago wedding photographer.

1. Read Online Reviews to find the best Chicago wedding photographer

It’s essential to fall in love with a photographer’s work, but personality matters just as much. You’ll be spending a lot of time with your photographer, so you want to know they’re easy to work with.

Reading reviews from other couples will give you insight into both the photographer’s work quality and personality. Look for feedback on how they handled stressful moments, their communication style, and overall professionalism.

2. Check Instagram and Social Media

Follow photographers who catch your eye on platforms like Instagram and Facebook.

Social media offers a chance to see their most recent work, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and real-time updates.

It also allows you to view how they interact with clients and other professionals, giving you a better idea of their style and personality.

3. See if They Have a Blog

Many wedding photographers maintain blogs where they regularly showcase their work. This can give you a more in-depth view of the full weddings they’ve shot, helping you decide if their style is consistent and aligns with your vision.

Browsing through different blog posts can also highlight how they capture details throughout various parts of the day.

4. Ask if They’ve Shot at Your Venue

One key question to ask a photographer during the research phase is if they’ve shot at your wedding venue before. If the answer is yes, request to see a gallery from that specific venue. This will allow you to see how they work with the lighting, architecture, and unique features of the space.

Read more: Unique Chicago Wedding Venues

5. Meet your wedding photographer in Person

A face-to-face meeting, whether in person or virtually, is crucial to gauge chemistry with your potential photographer.

This meeting allows you to ask questions, get a sense of their personality, and see if you click. If scheduling multiple meetings seems daunting, consider a virtual meeting first.

6. Look at Full Wedding Albums

A photographer’s website typically features highlight reels, but reviewing a full wedding album is essential.

Ask to see entire galleries of weddings to get a better sense of their consistency throughout the day. This will give you insight into how they capture not only the key moments but also candid shots, preparation photos, and everything in between.

look at my wedding portfolio

7. Trust Your Gut

Finally, trust your instincts. After all the research and meetings, your gut feeling can be your most valuable guide.

If something feels off, listen to that inner voice. On the other hand, if a photographer makes you feel comfortable and confident, it’s likely a good sign they’re the right choice for you.

Often, our instincts pick up on subtle cues that help us make decisions even when all the logical boxes are checked.

By taking these extra steps, you’ll be well on your way to choosing the best Chicago wedding photographer who aligns with your vision and makes your wedding day memories unforgettable.