HOW TO PICK A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
The Skills and Qualities That Set Great Wedding Photographers Apart
Wedding photography is about more than just owning a great camera or taking hundreds of photos. It’s about storytelling, timing, and connection. Many aspiring photographers quickly realize, “This is harder than I thought!” And they’re right — capturing the emotion, beauty, and once-in-a-lifetime moments of a wedding day takes real skill.
As a couple, choosing the right wedding photographer is one of the most meaningful decisions you’ll make. In this guide, we’ll help you avoid common pitfalls by outlining the key qualities to look for — so you can feel confident knowing your memories are in the right hands.
To make it easier, we’ve created a free downloadable Wedding Photographer Checklist to help guide you through the process with confidence. Download it here.
The Power of Reviews and Word of Mouth When Choosing a Wedding Photographer
Why Personal Recommendations Lead to the Best Wedding Photography Experience
Picture this: your friend goes to a restaurant, orders a steak, and tells you it’s the best meal they’ve ever had. You can practically taste it from how they describe it. Now, imagine you saw a commercial for that same restaurant — would you be as convinced? Probably not. That’s the magic of word of mouth recommendations, and when it comes to finding the best wedding photographer, it’s one of the most powerful tools you have.
While Instagram posts and ads can catch your eye, the most trusted advice comes from real couples who have worked with a photographer. That’s why reading wedding photographer reviews is one of the smartest steps in your wedding planning journey.
At Mandy & Randy Weddings, we’re proud to be one of the most sought-after wedding photography studios in the Eastern Townships, serving couples across Montreal, Quebec, and Ontario. The glowing testimonials we receive from past brides and grooms are the reason we’re recommended again and again — and why couples trust us to capture their biggest day.
Pro Tip for Brides: Don’t just take the photographer’s word for it!
✔ Check online reviews on Google, Facebook, WeddingWire
✔ Ask for referrals from past brides
✔ Look at full wedding galleries, not just highlight reels
Curious what couples are saying about us? Click here.
Why Quality Matters More Than Quantity in Wedding Photography
Why Quality Matters More Than Quantity in Wedding Photography
Albums and Image Counts Don’t Tell the Whole Story
When you search “Montreal wedding photographer,” you’ll find plenty of offers boasting thousands of images and free albums. But what really matters is this: Would you rather have two powerful, unforgettable photos… or ten mediocre ones?
Do you want a cheap album that fades with time — or the ability to print your images whenever you choose, and the option to invest in a premium, handcrafted book that lasts a lifetime?
We focus on capturing your most meaningful moments with intention. You’ll receive fully retouched, high-resolution images — giving you complete freedom to print, share, and preserve your memories however you want, now or later.
How to Budget for Your Wedding Photographer
How to Budget for Your Wedding Photographer
Don’t Pay for More Hours Than You Need
Setting a realistic wedding photography budget starts with research. Look for photographers in Montreal, the Eastern Townships, and across Quebec who share transparent pricing online — this gives you a clear sense of what’s standard and what aligns with your priorities.
At our studio, we offer a flexible, hourly-based pricing model designed to adapt to your day — not the other way around. That means you only pay for the moments that matter most to you. Want coverage for the getting-ready vibe and ceremony but not the late-night dance floor? We’ll tailor a timeline that works for your budget and your story.
Other optional add-ons, like a second shooter or travel outside of Quebec can influence the final quote. But we’ll never push services you don’t need. Instead, we help you build a photography package that’s personal, practical, and purposeful.
Find a Photographer You Enjoy Being Around
Find a Photographer You Enjoy Being Around
Personality Matters as Much as Photography Skills
Choosing a wedding photographer isn’t just about beautiful images — it’s about trusting someone to be by your side during some of the most emotional, intimate, and joyful moments of your life. From your engagement shoot to the final gallery delivery, your photographer will be with you more than almost anyone else on your wedding day.
That’s why personality is just as important as talent. Do they make you feel at ease? Can they keep things calm during chaotic moments? Are they fun to be around, yet professional when it matters most?
We believe that genuine connection leads to better photos. When you’re comfortable, you’ll be more yourself in front of the camera — and that’s when the real magic happens. We take the time to get to know our couples, making your experience feel effortless and enjoyable from the first consult to the final photo.
Understand the Rights to Your Wedding Photos
Understand the Rights to Your Wedding Photos
Make Sure You Own and Can Print Your Images
Not all wedding photography packages include the same usage rights — and that can make a big difference after the big day. Some photographers may limit what you can do with your images, charge extra for high-resolution files, or restrict printing through third-party services.
At Mandy & Randy, we believe your memories should truly belong to you. That’s why every couple receives high-resolution digital files with full personal-use rights. This means you can print your photos, share them online, create your own albums, and enjoy your images for a lifetime — on your own terms, with no hidden fees or limitations.
We do ask for permission to feature a few select images in our portfolio or social media, but only with your consent, and always with care and respect for your privacy.
Before booking any photographer — whether in Montreal, the Eastern Townships, or anywhere in Quebec — make sure to ask about image rights, file access, and any restrictions. It’s one of the most important details couples often overlook, but one that has lasting impact.
Download the full checklist to take with you to your consultations.