Let’s be real—choosing a wedding photographer is a big deal. You’re not just picking someone to show up and snap a few pretty pictures. You’re choosing the person who will be with you through one of the most important days of your life, capturing every moment you’ll look back on for years (and decades) to come.
As a Denver wedding photographer who’s been lucky enough to document love stories all over Colorado for the past eight years, I’ve seen it all—what works, what doesn’t, and what couples really wish they’d known going in.
So if you’re deep in the “OMG who do we hire?!” stage, here are five honest, helpful tips to guide you:
It’s easy to fall in love with a photographer’s Instagram. The golden-hour portraits, the dramatic mountain shots, the artsy details—yep, they’re stunning. But your wedding day is made up of so much more. Ask to see full wedding galleries, so you can get a feel for how your photographer handles every part of the day: low light, dance floor chaos, indoor ceremonies, candids, and quiet in-between moments.
Bonus tip: If you’re planning a Colorado elopement or mountain wedding, make sure your photographer is comfortable with natural light shifts and unpredictable weather (ahem… I’ve got snow boots in my car year-round).
Your photographer will be with you more than your partner on your wedding day—no joke. They’ll see you cry, laugh, trip over your dress, and maybe even have a mini panic moment when your boutonniere won’t pin.
So personality matters. You want someone who makes you feel calm, seen, and hyped up all at once. That’s why I always offer a coffee date or Zoom hang before booking—because vibes matter.
Photographers structure their packages differently. Some include engagement sessions, sneak peeks, or albums; others offer video add-ons or full uncut footage of your ceremony and speeches.
At Antler Run Photography, most of my wedding packages include a complimentary engagement session, sneak peeks within 72 hours, a fine art linen album, and extras like a USB and print credits. I also offer a streamlined option for couples who want the full Antler Run experience with just the essentials. Same support, same energy, same attention to detail—just a simpler setup.
Whatever package you choose, make sure you know exactly what’s included so there are no surprises later!
This is the stuff no one talks about on Pinterest—but it matters a lot.
The answer to all of the above should be yes. (And yes, I do.)
Weddings are once-in-a-lifetime events—you want someone who takes that responsibility seriously and has solid systems in place to protect your memories. Tech fails, power surges, and SD card corruption are rare but real. A pro has a plan.
Sometimes, you just know. Maybe it’s the way they talk about storytelling. Maybe it’s the editing style. Maybe it’s the way they gush about dogs and cry during first looks (guilty). If you feel connected to someone’s work and to them as a human—that’s your person.
The best Denver wedding photographers aren’t just technically skilled. They’re emotionally invested in your day, your story, and your experience. Find someone who’s as excited to show up for you as you are to get married.
Looking for a Denver wedding photographer who’s down to earth, detail-obsessed, and always up for an adventure?
Let’s chat. I’d love to learn about your plans and see if we’re a good fit. [Book Now]
