Finding the Best Nashville Wedding Photographer

As a past bride myself and a documentary Nashville-based wedding photographer, I know how important it is to find someone who isn’t just talented behind the camera—but someone who sees you. You want a photographer who’s observant, trustworthy, who honors your vision, and who brings a warm, steady presence to your wedding day.

These photos will live long past the flowers and cake. They’ll hang in your home, fill your albums, and one day, be shown to your future family. So how do you find the right photographer for something that personal? Here’s what I recommend.

1. Set a Budget

Photography is one of the most meaningful investments you’ll make for your wedding day. In the Nashville area, seasoned professional photographers typically range from $4,000 to $10,000+.

My couples usually invest between $6–8K on their wedding photography and Super 8 films, and I guide them through the entire planning process. For many of my clients, photography is their highest priority, and I pour my heart into creating images that reflect their love honestly and artistically.

2. Research & See What Styles You’re Drawn To

Not all photographers shoot or approach weddings the same way. Some are hands-on and pose every moment. Others take a fully documentary approach and capture the day as it unfolds naturally. Neither is wrong—you just need to find the energy that matches yours.

Look through entire galleries (not just the highlight reel on Instagram). Study the editing style. Ask yourself, “Will I still love this look in 50 years?” I love when clients look through my full galleries, which you can see my full gallery portfolio here.

My editing approach is inspired by vintage film, designed to age beautifully. I enhance natural elements like landscape and lighting, while avoiding trendy filters that can date your images. My goal is always to create timeless photos that feel honest and emotionally rich.

3. Schedule a Consultation

Photography is deeply personal. You’re inviting someone into some of the most vulnerable, joy-filled, once-in-a-lifetime moments of your life. So connection matters.

I always meet with couples before booking to be sure our personalities and styles align. You’ll likely spend more time with your photographer on your wedding day than almost anyone else—so you want someone who makes you feel comfortable and understood.

When couples send their inquiry, I schedule a time to connect, hear more about your story, and make sure it’s a genuine fit on both sides.

4. Ask the Hard (but necessary) Questions

Use your consultation to ask meaningful questions like:

• How do you keep our photos safe after the wedding?
• When and how will we receive our gallery?
• How many weddings have you photographed?
• What’s your role like on the day—more involved, or more of a fly-on-the-wall?
• How often will we hear from you leading up to the wedding?

Here’s what that looks like in my process:

• I keep multiple backups of your photos on the wedding day, and store memory cards in a fireproof safe until delivery.
• Final galleries are delivered within 4–10 weeks, always with sneak peeks earlier.
• I’ve photographed over 100 weddings, and I intentionally mix a quiet, documentary approach with gentle direction when needed—like sunset portraits or family formals.
• I check in at 6 months and 1 month out (and anytime in between if you need me). That way, you’re never left guessing.

Being involved in the months leading up helps build trust, and when my couples trust me, it allows me to do my best, most honest work.

5. Sign a Contract

A contract isn’t just paperwork—it’s your protection and peace of mind. Real professional wedding photographers will always provide a detailed, legal agreement outlining services, delivery timelines, rescheduling/cancellation policies, and more.

This is how you make sure everyone is on the same page—and that you’re fully covered for your investment.

Documentary Style Wedding Photos

When you’re browsing styles, you’ll come across a few terms like posed, editorial, or documentary.

Here’s the difference:

• Posed: Everything is directed. Every hand placement and facial expression is instructed.
• Documentary: Nothing is staged. The photographer captures moments as they unfold naturally.
• Editorial (my style): A blend of the two. I capture real, emotional moments as they happen—but I also step in to guide you gently when it helps (especially during portraits).

My goal is for your gallery to feel true to your story, not a checklist. So while I’ll give you cues that make sense in the moment (“walk toward me holding hands, then whisper something funny”), I’m also stepping back when you just need space to feel what’s happening.

Vintage Film Photos & Super 8 Video

Want to go one step further in capturing your day in a timeless way? Film photography and Super 8 video might be for you.

Some luxury Nashville photographers shoot film, which is an advanced (and nostalgic) format of photography. I shoot on 35mm film—the same kind our parents had on their wedding days—and offer Super 8 video to give your day a nostalgic, slow-moving storybook feel.

If you want to learn more about what film looks like, check out this blog post:
The Tennessee Film Wedding Photographer Guide.

Still looking for the right Nashville wedding photographer?

Finding someone you trust to capture your day honestly is a big decision—and if you’ve made it this far, maybe this resonated with you. I’d love to hear more about your story, what you’re dreaming up for your day, and see if we’re the right fit.

You can get in touch with me here. I’ll send over my full wedding guide, and we’ll take it from there—no pressure, just a conversation.

Looking for more wedding and elopement inspiration? 

Check out more inspo below!

The 15 Best Nashville Wedding Venues

Super 8 Wedding Films

Nashville 35mm Film Photos

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