Choosing a wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your big day.
After all, once the cake has been eaten and the dress is packed away, your wedding photos will be what keeps those memories alive for years to come. But how do you know when you’ve found the one?
If you’re searching for the best wedding photographer in Cardiff, read on to find out five key signs that prove you've found the perfect match.
Table of Contents
Their Portfolio Makes You Feel Something
A wedding photographer’s portfolio isn’t just a collection of pretty pictures - it’s a window into their style, skill, and ability to capture raw emotion throughout a wedding day.
When browsing their wedding photography work, ask yourself:
Do these images make me feel something?
Can I imagine myself in these photos?
Are the moments captured naturally and authentically?
The best Cardiff wedding photographers know how to document a wedding in a way that feels genuine and timeless. Whether it’s a tearful first look, a belly laugh during the speeches, or a quiet moment between the newlyweds, their images should tell a story that pulls you in and makes you feel like you were there.
Pro Tip: If their portfolio feels too staged or overly edited, it might not align with your vision. Look for consistency in quality, lighting, and composition - not just a few standout images.
They Understand the Unpredictability of Cardiff Weather (And Have a Plan!)
Let’s be real - if you’re getting married in the great city of Cardiff, you need a photographer who knows how to handle a bit of rain! A true professional won’t just cross their fingers and hope for sunshine. They’ll come prepared with creative ideas, backup locations, and techniques to embrace the weather.
What to Look For:
A Cardiff based photographer who has experience shooting in various weather conditions.
Someone who can adapt to indoor settings without sacrificing quality.
A photographer who embraces the charm of rainy day wedding photos (think romantic umbrella shots, moody skies, and artistic reflections!).
Pro Tip: Ask to see examples of their work in different lighting and weather conditions. A Cardiff-based photographer should know how to make the most of every scenario, from golden sunsets over Cardiff Bay to dramatic stormy skies above the Cardiff City Hall.
They Make You Feel Comfortable and at Ease
Your wedding photographer will be with you for most of your big day - from the nervous morning preparations to the dance floor madness at night. The best photographers aren’t just skilled with a camera; they’re also great at reducing camera shyness and making people feel relaxed and natural in front of the lens.
Signs You’ve Found “The One”:
They take the time to get to know you as a couple.
They make you feel comfortable during any pre-wedding engagement shoot or consultation.
They have a friendly, calming presence that helps ease wedding day nerves.
If you find yourself laughing, feeling at ease, and actually enjoying being photographed, you’ve probably found the right photographer for you.
They Have Glowing Reviews and Testimonials
A great wedding photographer will have plenty of happy couples singing their praises. Reviews and testimonials offer insight into what it’s actually like to work with them - not just how good their photos look. It's best to not just solely rely on online reviews and to instead ask if they'd be happy to put you in touch with any previous couple's they've worked with. That way, you can directly ask their past clients about their experience with that wedding photographer, while also viewing the photography from that exact wedding.
What to Check:
Read online reviews and Facebook recommendations but most importantly try to speak with a photographer's previous couples directly!
Look for comments about professionalism, reliability, and communication.
See if previous couples mention how the photographer handled unexpected challenges (e.g., bad weather, timeline delays, difficult lighting).
Pro Tip: A few minor negative reviews aren’t necessarily a red flag - but how the photographer responds to criticism can tell you a lot about their professionalism.
They Have a Clear, Transparent Pricing Structure
Nobody likes unexpected costs, especially when planning a wedding. The best Cardiff wedding photographers will be upfront about their wedding photography pricing, what’s included in their packages, and any potential extras. Whether you're looking for full-day coverage or a small part-day bespoke package that covers only the most important hours, it should be clear exactly what your hard-earned money is paying for.
What to Expect:
A clear breakdown of services (e.g., hours of coverage, number of edited images, albums, etc.).
No hidden fees or surprise charges.
Flexible packages that suit different budgets and needs.
Pro Tip: If a deal seems too cheap, be cautious. High-quality wedding photography is an investment, and professionals charge accordingly for their expertise, time, and equipment.
My Final Thoughts
Finding the best wedding photographer in Cardiff isn’t just about pretty pictures - it’s about finding someone you trust to capture the biggest day of your life in a way that feels true to you. If their portfolio moves you, their personality puts you at ease, and their experience speaks for itself, you’ve likely found the perfect match.
FAQs About Finding the Best Cardiff Wedding Photographer
How do I find the best wedding photographer in Cardiff?
Finding the best Cardiff wedding photographer isn’t just about a quick Google search and picking the first name that pops up. Start by browsing photographers’ websites, checking their portfolio, and reading real client reviews. Look at their style - do their images make you feel something? Do they capture real emotions? Then, meet or chat with them to see if you genuinely click. Your photographer is with you all day, so it’s crucial you feel comfortable around them!
