Picking a wedding photographer in Michigan can feel like online dating, minus the swiping. There are hundreds of us, all promising “authentic moments” and “timeless edits.” Everyone says they’re natural and passionate about storytelling. So how are you supposed to figure out who’s actually a good fit and who just bought their first camera?

We’ve worked with couples all over Metro Detroit and throughout Michigan. We’ve heard every story under the sun. “My cousin offered to shoot our wedding for free,” or “We hired someone super cheap online and, well… now we’re doing a vow renewal.”

If you're overwhelmed, you’re not alone. So here’s what actually matters when choosing a Michigan wedding photographer, based on years of experience and a whole lot of real weddings.

1. Look for Style

Every photographer has a different style. Some love that bright and airy feel, others lean into the moody tones, and plenty of us aim for true-to-life color that feels timeless. Whatever you like is totally fine. Just make sure the style is consistent and that it’s what you like.

Don’t fall in love with one photo on Instagram. A great photographer should be able to deliver a full day of solid work, not just a few golden hour hero shots.

You’re hiring someone to tell your whole story, not just show off their editing preset.

2. Experience Isn’t Just About How Long They’ve Been Around

It’s easy to say, “I’ve been doing this for X years,” but what really matters is the kind of experience that comes from shooting real weddings. Not posting loudly on facebook that you will photograph a wedding cheaper than anyone else. Not second shooting. Actual wedding days with real people, unpredictable weather, and timelines that don’t always go as planned.

Michigan weddings come with their own set of quirks. Rain that appears out of nowhere. That one uncle who disappears right before family formals. Venues with dark reception spaces and limited lighting. You want a photographer who’s been in the trenches and knows how to roll with it.

Bonus if they know the area. Familiarity with Detroit venues, Ann Arbor hot spots, or hidden parks in Lake Orion means they’ll know exactly where the best light is and how to get those shots without wasting time.

3. Make Sure You Actually Like Them (As a Person)

This one gets overlooked all the time, but it matters more than you think. Your photographer will be around you more than anyone else on your wedding day. More than your maid of honor. More than your mom. If their energy is off, you’re going to feel it.

Have a real conversation with them. See if it feels natural. Do they listen? Do they care about you or are you just another number? Do they make you feel comfortable? The best photographers are the ones who make you forget the camera is even there.

We always tell our couples, you don’t need to know how to pose or what to do with your hands. You just need to feel comfortable. That’s a big part of our job.

4. A Real Contract is a Must

We know. Contracts don’t feel romantic. But they matter, and we can’t stress this enough. A good contract protects both of you. It should clearly outline what’s included, how long your coverage is, and when you can expect your final images.

Make sure you understand what’s included in your package. Is there an online gallery? Can you download the photos? Can you print photos outside the photographer? Can you share images to social media? Are there hidden fees? Are there options to add albums or additional hours later?

And please don’t work with anyone who doesn’t provide a contract. That’s a hard no.

5. Understand What You’re Getting After the Wedding

A lot of couples focus on the wedding day, but forget to ask what happens after. Will your photos be fully edited? How are they delivered? Do you have the rights to print and share them?

Also, if someone promises your photos will be done in 48 hours, ask how much time they spend editing. Fast isn’t always better. You want someone who takes time to deliver a full, polished gallery that reflects your day.

Make sure the delivery method is easy to use and backed up. You want to be able to access your images ten years from now, not worry about losing a USB stick in a drawer.

6. Read Reviews, Then Read Between the Lines

Take the time to read through reviews, especially the ones that tell a story. You want to hear about how the photographer helped calm nerves when things got off track, how they worked seamlessly with the planner, or how much the couple loved the final gallery.

Don’t just look at five stars. Read how they respond to any negative feedback too. That tells you a lot about how they handle real-world situations and how they treat people under pressure.

It’s About Trust

Sure, you want someone who knows how to use a camera. But you also want someone you can trust. Someone who will be there with you in the chaos and the quiet moments, who understands what matters most to you, and who’s paying attention even when no one else is.

At the end of the day, your photos are what you’ll have left. Long after the cake is gone and the flowers have wilted, those images are what bring it all back. So choose someone who gets that. Someone who gets you.

If you're planning a Michigan wedding and still looking, we’d love to talk. No pressure, just a conversation.

Jodi & Bryan
J&B Patton Photography
Metro Detroit Wedding Photography with Heart and Style

What to Look For in a Michigan Wedding Photographer (And What Actually Matters)