When it comes to wedding photography, there’s a lot of information out there. Let’s face it… These days we’re inundated with details, opinions and advice, and it’s up to us to decipher what’s fact vs. fiction, and what’s perfect for us. But who has time for that? You have a wedding to plan! So read on for my take on some of the biggest misconceptions about wedding photography, and why these myths are easily debunked with the right photographer.

1. “The price is too much for one day of work.”

This one couldn’t be farther from the truth! The wedding day itself is just one of the many parts of an investment in wedding photography. Sure, the wedding is the only day you see us working, but my job really starts from the moment we meet! Getting to know the happy couple, communicating the vision, engagement sessions, event scheduling and task management, image selection, shot list finalization, editing, previews, deliverables and designs are just a few of the many “unseen” tasks that go into this process—and what makes professional wedding photography a worthwhile investment.

2. “It’s just taking pictures. Anyone can do it!”

I know everyone has a digital camera in the palm of their hand these days, and odds are you have a friend or relative who has even picked up a professional camera a time or two. But trust me. Wedding photography is an entire industry of professionals for a reason! It takes more than a camera to capture a wedding, and it certainly isn’t something you want to risk missing the mark on. Afterall, this day only happens once! While most of us only attend a handful of weddings in our lives, a professional wedding photographer probably shoots every weekend during busy summer months every single year. We know the ins and outs, the moments to watch for, and the rundown of how the event schedule typically works. Leave it to us. We know the drill! 

3. “Hiring a professional photographer isn’t worth the investment.”

Once upon a time, this misconception was everywhere. Nowadays we want to capture and share even the quietest moments of our everyday lives, but still—shouldn’t your wedding day be different? This is a huge day in anyone’s life. It should be celebrated and preserved (and it shouldn’t live inside your phone)! When you invest in professional wedding photography, you’re getting more than just pictures. You’re getting the knowledge and experience of someone who knows exactly what they’re doing. You’re getting high-quality products and images worthy of the time and effort you put into the details of the day. And most importantly, you’re getting peace of mind in knowing this detail will be taken care of, off your plate and mind, and done well. We can focus on getting the best images so you can focus on saying “I do.”

4. “All wedding photographers have the same style.”

We all fall into this trap sometimes… A wedding photo is a wedding photo, so why does it matter who I ask to photograph it, right? Nope! This is another myth that’s easy to debunk. Just like every wedding is different, every photographer brings a unique style to the table. Before you book, follow these important steps, and ask these important questions. If you put just anyone behind the lens, you probably will get run-of-the-mill photos. But if you find someone who shares your vision, captures your creativity and showcases your style in a way that you love, your wedding photos can shine as brightly as the day itself—and last a whole lot longer! 

5. “Wedding photographers only photograph weddings.”

Love your images? Why stop at wedding photography? We photographers shoot a whole lot more than brides and grooms, and we love keeping up with our clients by celebrating births, anniversaries, graduates, family sessions and so much more. Browse through a photographer’s social media to see their specialties, and to get a feel for their style. One of my favorite things about being a photographer is getting to know people and share their stories. Your lives don’t stop at “I do,” and your photo albums shouldn’t either!

Taking anniversary photos might seem like a frivolous investment, right? Or like another thing to stress over, or add to an already packed calendar. I’m going to let you in on a little secret… That’s exactly why you should take anniversary photos! In taking your vows, you made an investment in your relationship, and that commitment deserves to be celebrated—and commemorated! Life rarely seems to slow down. Don’t let the chapters of your life and love slip by! Trust me, you don’t need a milestone to make time for a photo shoot. Afterall, your life doesn’t happen big event to big event. So why should your photos? Need any more convincing? Whether you’ve been married one year or 100, check out my top three reasons to schedule your anniversary photos ASAP!

Celebrate the Changes

What’s your favorite part of having wedding photos? How about your engagement photos? Not only do they capture a moment in time, but they capture a time in your lives—a chapter in your love story—that’s worth keeping forever. Why should the years after be any different? Odds are, your hair has changed. Your clothing style has changed. Your relationship has changed. Life as you know it has changed! How do I know? Because we’re always growing and evolving, even in our past relationships. Anniversary photos celebrate what you’ve been through, and commemorate the changes that brought you where you are today.

Celebrate the Now

One of my favorite things about having professional photos is the legacy they leave behind. These are the images that will be passed down from your children to their children, and so on, for generations. And while it sure is fun to look back at wedding photos, it’s also important to continue that journey, and leave a legacy of lasting love. Sure, you loved each other then, but your love’s had so much time to grow since then! Your wedding photos celebrate where you were. Anniversary photos celebrate the NOW. Maybe you’ve taken up new activities together, or enjoy different food than you used to. Perhaps you live in a totally new place! No matter where life’s taken you, it’s important to celebrate where you are—the people you are, the places you like, and the way things look—now! Your love story is one for the ages. You deserve photos that reflect who you’ve grown to be together!

Celebrate Each Other

Let’s face it. Life’s probably gotten a bit more chaotic since your wedding day—especially if you’ve started a family, adopted some pets or advanced in your career! But I’m here to tell you, believe it or not, taking anniversary photos can create the ultimate date night. Really! You get to be as dressed up as you want to be to spend a few hours with each other. How often does that happen these days? I recommend making a whole night of it! Take your photos during “golden hour” in the evening, even if you’re shooting somewhere indoors, then continue the fun at dinner, a movie or show, or any of your favorite pastimes together. Who wants to waste a good outfit or hair day? Take some time to reflect and use the excuse to fall in love all over again.