Hiring a wedding photographer isn’t just about finding someone who owns a camera…it’s about trusting someone to capture one of the most important chapters in your story. But with so many people out there advertising photography, how do you actually know if a photographer is legit?

Here are a few things to look for when you’re narrowing down your list:

---

1. They Have a Real Portfolio (Not Just a Few Instagram Posts)

A legit photographer will have a website or gallery full of consistent work. It’s not just about one or two lucky shots. It’s about being able to deliver beautiful images in different lighting conditions, locations, and wedding days.

Pro tip: Ask to see a full wedding gallery, not just highlight reels. That will tell you whether they can handle everything from dimly lit receptions to bright outdoor ceremonies. If you request full galleries, but are only seeing couples portraits & details shots, and nothing else – this probably means that they haven’t actually shot any full weddings yet & are just showing you styled shoots. This can be concerning because they may not know how to shoot in specific settings yet. And that’s important to know when booking. This could also be a sign of a scam.

For example, when I photograph weddings at places like Sleeping Bear Dunes or downtown Detroit, I have to adapt quickly to totally different environments, and that kind of consistency comes from experience.

---

2. Their Business Is Set Up Professionally

Do they have a website? Do they have a contract? Are they collecting retainers through an invoicing system? Do they have liability insurance? These aren’t glamorous details, but they matter. Having a contract protects both you and the photographer.

🚩 If someone just takes payment through Venmo with no paperwork… red flag. If they try to take payment WITHOUT a contract being signed first, also a huge red flag.

---

3. Reviews Speak for Themselves

Google, The Knot, Facebook – wherever you check, legit photographers will have reviews from real couples and families. Look for feedback about things beyond just the photos, like how the photographer handled family dynamics, unexpected rain, or timeline shifts.

🚩If they have NO reviews anywhere, this is a red flag. Even 6 months into my business – I had reviews from clients. So if they say they have been doing wedding photography for years with no reviews, I would do more research on if they’re a legit photographer.

---

4. They Communicate Clearly (and in a Timely Way)

If you’re left waiting weeks for a response to your inquiry, imagine what that will feel like when you’re waiting for your photos. A trustworthy photographer should have a workflow in place (emails, guides, timelines) that makes you feel taken care of from the very first message.

🚩 Or if they keep bailing on/rescheduling your engagement session, this is concerning.

---

5. Their Work is Consistent

This is a big one. If you are looking at their portfolio, and you are seeing way different styles of editing and shooting (especially paired with no reviews, intense and pushy communication, super low pricing etc) – this could be a huge sign that it’s a scam. OR it could also be a photographer who is newer and is using other photographers work (which is extremely unethical) because they don’t have any of their own yet. This is very unfair to you, as a client, because if you book them based on their work – but then the photos they take for you are completely different, that’s really cruddy.

A little tip: If you’re worried this may be the case, you can actually reverse search an image on google. Click here if you are unsure how & it will walk you through the steps!

---

6. They’re Upfront About Pricing

A professional photographer should have transparent pricing or at least a clear starting point. It doesn’t have to be the exact dollar figure on their website, but you shouldn’t feel like you’re chasing down information just to find out if they fit your budget. They also wont add any surprise fees after the contract has been signed. For example, “Oh, now there will actually be a $700 travel fee.” Everything should be agreed upon up front.

👉 Curious about numbers? I wrote a breakdown on how much wedding photography costs in Michigan. Another helpful read is my blog on photography costs specifically.

---

7. They Care About the Experience, Not Just the Photos

A legit photographer will want to know about your story, your priorities, and how you envision your day. It’s not just about snapping pictures…it’s about guiding you through the process and making the experience stress-free (and honestly, fun).

And if you’re not quite sure what to ask a photographer to figure out whether they’re the right fit, I put together a full guide on what questions to ask your photographer before you book. That way, you’ll feel confident you’re making the right choice.

---

My Take As a Wedding Photographer of 11 Years

If you’re reading this and wondering whether I check those boxes – hi, I’m Chel! 🙋‍♀️

I specialize in photographing micro weddings and elopements here in Michigan—whether that’s saying your vows on the shoreline of Sleeping Bear Dunes or celebrating with an urban-chic wedding in Detroit, I’ve built my business around creating a full experience for my couples: planning support, flexible coverage, and photos that feel like you.

If you’re on the hunt for a legit photographer who will be there for you every step of the way, reach out here and let’s talk about your day.

---

_{©Cheleana Rowan, with Cheleanamarie Photography, 2015-2025. Unauthorized use and or duplication of this material without express and written consent from Cheleana Rowan is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full clear credit is given to Cheleana Rowan with Cheleanamarie Photography with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.}