5 Signs You’ve Found the Best Cardiff Wedding Photographer
- Shawn Eastman
- Feb 12
- 9 min read
Updated: Feb 21
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!
What should I look for in a wedding photographer?
Beyond technical skills, look for someone who:
Has a consistent and stunning portfolio style that resonates with you.
Communicates clearly and is super organised.
Makes you feel at ease and relaxed in front of the camera.
Has a solid plan for all weather scenarios (hello, unpredictable Welsh weather!).
Has glowing reviews from happy couples.
How far in advance should I book my Cardiff wedding photographer?
Most top wedding photographers book up at least 12-18 months in advance, especially for peak wedding season (May to September). If you’re planning a summer wedding, get your photographer locked in as early as possible. For winter weddings, you might have a little more flexibility, but don’t leave it too late!
How much does a Cardiff wedding photographer cost?
Prices vary depending on experience, package inclusions, and how long you want them at your wedding. On average, a quality wedding photographer in Cardiff will cost between £1,200 and £2,500+ for full-day coverage. If you see someone offering full-day coverage for £300, be cautious - you might be gambling with your wedding memories!
Learn More: What Is the Average Cost of a Wedding Photographer in the UK?
Can I see a full wedding gallery before booking?
Absolutely! Never judge a photographer’s work based on just Instagram highlights. Ask to see a full wedding galleries to get a real feel for how they capture the entire day, from getting ready to the dance floor chaos. A great photographer tells a story from start to finish, not just with a handful of "wow" shots.
Should I meet my wedding photographer before booking?
Yes! Whether in person or via video call, meeting your photographer beforehand ensures you're on the same page. It helps you see if you get along well - because trust me, you want someone who feels like a friend, not just a stranger with a camera!
What questions should I ask a wedding photographer before booking?
Have you shot at my venue before?
What’s your backup plan if it rains?
How do you handle difficult lighting situations?
How long does it take to receive the final photos?
Do you have backup equipment? (Hint: the answer should be yes!)
What happens if you’re ill on the wedding day?
Learn More: Top 5 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before Booking
What style of wedding photography is best?
There are many different styles of wedding photography so this depends on your personal taste! Some couples love documentary-style photography, which captures candid, real moments. Others prefer a fine art or editorial look with elegant, posed shots. And some like a mix of everything! Check portfolios to see what style speaks to you the most.
Do I need two photographers for my wedding?
It depends on the size and complexity of your wedding. A second shooter can capture different angles, reactions, and moments that a single photographer might miss - especially during key moments like the ceremony or speeches. If you're having a big wedding (100+ guests), having two photographers is a smart choice but will come at an obvious increased cost. With all of that said, in the vast majority of cases a single experienced wedding photographer will get the job done perfectly well - and that's how it has been for many decades!
What if it rains on my wedding day?
Welcome to Wales! But seriously, a good wedding photographer is always prepared. Whether it’s using beautiful indoor spaces, incorporating umbrellas for romantic rain shots, or finding creative ways to work with the weather, your photos will still look amazing. Plus, some of the most stunning wedding photos happen in the rain!
How long does it take to receive my wedding photos?
Most photographers take 6-12 weeks to deliver your full gallery, depending on the amount of coverage, their workload and their editing process. We photographer's appreciate that newlyweds don't want to be waiting months before receiving their final images so we do aim to get them finalised as soon as possible. Ask your photographer for their estimated lead time before booking if you're unsure.
Will my wedding photos be edited?
Yes! Editing isn’t about making you look different; it’s about enhancing colours, adjusting lighting, and perfecting the overall look. A great photographer’s editing style should be consistent, timeless, and natural - not overly filtered or artificial.
Can I request specific shots or a shot list?
Definitely! While photographers work best when they have creative freedom, if there are must-have shots (e.g., a special family member, cultural traditions, or a sentimental location), let them know beforehand. Most photographers will also take a standard set of family and group shots. In fact, having a shortlist of any important group photos can be especially helpful as the last-minute organising of group photos on the day can easily eat into a lot of time.
What happens if my photographer gets sick on the wedding day?
Professional photographers have backup plans in place. They’ll either have a trusted associate photographer step in or provide you with alternative solutions.
How many photos will I receive from my wedding?
This varies, but for a full-day wedding, you can typically expect somewhere in the region of 400-800 fully edited images, or around 200-300 for a part-day wedding. Some photographers deliver more, some less - it depends on their shooting style and how much action happens during the day!
What’s the benefit of hiring a local Cardiff wedding photographer?
A Cardiff-based photographer knows the best locations, nearby hidden gem spots, and how to handle the unpredictable Welsh weather. They’re also familiar with popular Cardiff wedding venues, meaning they know the best lighting spots and angles to use. Plus, supporting local businesses is always a win!
Can I get wedding albums and prints?
Absolutely! Many photographers offer beautifully designed wedding albums and high-quality prints. A digital gallery is great, but there’s something magical about flipping through a professionally printed wedding album years down the line.
Do wedding photographers provide videography too?
Some do, but most specialise in either photography or videography. If you want both, look for a team that offers combined packages or hire a separate videographer who works well with your photographer.
Do I need to feed my wedding photographer?
It's not obligatory but always a nice touch! Personally, I tend to decline the kind offer as I take food with me everywhere I go (hungry man!) but always greatly appreciate it. If your photographer is working with you for 8+ hours, it’s common courtesy (and sometimes even written in contracts) to provide them with a meal. A well-fed photographer is a happy photographer - trust me!
How can I ensure I look great in my wedding photos?
A few simple tips:
Relax! Natural smiles always look best.
Trust your photographer - they know the best angles and lighting.
Practice good posture - stand tall, shoulders back.
Have fun! The best photos happen when you’re enjoying the moment, not overthinking poses.
