8 Ways to Choose Your Manchester Wedding Photographer

Date: 18.06.23

bridesmaids laughing at the oak tree of peover

8 Ways to Choose Your Manchester Wedding Photographer

When you’ve planned the wedding of your dreams, you’ll want to capture your magical day to perfection! But with so many different wedding photographers available, how do you pick the right one for you? Here are some tips for success.

Know what you’re looking for

Every Manchester wedding photographer has their own unique style, so it’s a good idea to look through their portfolio to see whether it grabs you. Is their signature aesthetic light and airy, or dark and moody for example? Do they take a traditional approach or go for a more contemporary, journalistic style? (There’s no ‘right’ answer here! It just depends on what you like.)

coppermines cottages coniston wedding Manchester Wedding Photographer

Have a budget in mind

It helps to decide your budget before you shop around for the right wedding photographer, as this can save you time. Many photographers will advertise starting prices or packages on their website, and some may even flex a little, especially if your wedding is off-season. The best thing to do is get in touch and begin the conversation.


Get recommendations 

Many couples choose their wedding photographer through recommendations – either by asking around or reading reviews. A trusted recommendation is a smart way to find an excellent photographer, as good photographers will have a strong local reputation and lots of happy customers!

Ask friends and family as a starting point and look on local wedding photographer websites for testimonials. Social media can be very helpful here too!

Manchester Wedding Photographer Stock Farm Tatton

See your wedding photographer’s portfolio

You should be able to see a few example photographs on any good Manchester wedding photographer’s website, but you may want to see a full portfolio to see how the photographer captures the feel and flow of a wedding day and the breadth and treatment of their work. It’s all part of your research and will help you to make a confident decision. 

stone barn wedding venue

See if they know your wedding venue

It’s not a deal-breaker, but it helps if your chosen wedding photographer has worked at your chosen wedding venue before. This is because they’ll be familiar with its layout, lighting and features, and may also be able to show you some portfolio examples featuring the venue itself. 

Manchester Wedding Photographer Stone Barn Wedding

Meet your photographer

Once you’ve created a shortlist, arrange to meet potential Manchester wedding photographers to see if you gel with them. You want to know that the photographer will be able to blend into the day and capture it with ease, while being confident enough to organise arranged shots and get everyone into position on the day!

 You’ll be spending all day with your photographer, so make sure you feel really comfortable with them and able to ask questions and communicate easily. Are they friendly, proactive, and organized? These are all great signs!

bride and groom first dance at styal lodge

Narrow your shortlist

Some people find their ideal Manchester wedding photographer almost instantly and on the back of a recommendation or a social media post. But others will create a shortlist and spend time narrowing down their choices.

 If you do this, weigh up your choice on the factors that matter to you. These might include the number of hours worked on the day, albums and prints, turnaround time, and retouching options. It’s best to avoid making the decision based on cost alone – after all, you tend to get what you pay for!

bride and groom first dance at the oak tree of peover

Consider an engagement shoot

Some couples will also choose to have an engagement shoot in Manchester or Cheshire, as an extra step before their big day. If you’re keen to capture every moment of your love story, then why not go for it? 

This is also a great way to try out a potential wedding photographer and see whether the initial shoot comes out as you want it to. If you love the results, you can relax and take one mental thing off your list before the big day!

father of the bride first look at the oak tree of peover

Find out more

Ready to find your perfect Manchester wedding photographer? 

Check out my wedding photography albums here: https://kellyclarke.co.uk/galleries/weddings/

Get in touch! https://kellyclarke.co.uk/contact/ 

Kelly Clarke Photography