When hiring your wedding photographer, you need to really consider if hiring a family friend or someone “with a nice camera” is worth it. My bet is that it’s not. Here’s why…

Hiring a professional wedding photographer means you’ll get a professional experience!

Did you know that when you hire me, you’re basically signing on for a years worth of recommendations and prep. We don’t just high five and say, “See you there!” We talk details, you get an entire bridal guide, and I’m there when you have questions!

Hiring a friend sacrifices their opportunity to enjoy your wedding WITH you.

If you have a family member or a friend who is a wedding photographer, consider that they might want to enjoy your wedding alongside you inside of working with you.

You’re risking your relationship with your friend when you don’t hire a professional wedding photographer

As casual as you might feel or as intimidating as a wedding photographer’s pricing guide might be, I encourage you to consider what would happen if something went wrong. What happens when your friend or family member doesn’t meet your expectations. Is losing that relationship worth not hiring a professional?

I have very strong feelings about this and it’s because I made this mistake! When I got married, I was not a photographer and no one gave me this advice! I hired a friend who was a photographer, but had little experience with weddings.

At the end of the day, I was left with a CD full of RAW images (HUGE RED FLAG), a lot of missed shots, and my own (then lacking) editing efforts. I’ve kicked myself many time for making such a silly, avoidable mistake!

Are you looking for a wedding photographer? I’d love to talk to you about this more and figure out how I can help! Contact me through my website and we’ll set up a call!

If you’d like to see more of my work you can check out the links below.

Macee & Bailey’s Engagement Session

Manassas Elopement Styled Shoot

Downtown Fredericksburg Prom Session

Looking for other pro vendors? Here are some of my favorite people to work with!

Emily of Belle’s Pleasure

Kolena of Blue Sapphire Events

Amanda of Amanda Fiorita Hair