saint louis library wedding photography — **Photo taken at:** **Saint Louis Public Library**

Let’s hypothetically say you have a relative who dabbles in photography - he has his own camera, flash and tripod and offers to take your wedding photos for free or at a steep discount.

Do you take him up on his offer, or do you hire a professional?

Please, oh please… HIRE THE PROFESSIONAL!

We have personally been told by a couple that they regretted not hiring us as their wedding photographer. The photos they received back were not up to par. Don’t let regret happen to you when it comes to booking a professional wedding photographer.

bride and groom wedding portrait, downtown saint louis

In an era where everyone has access to some sort of camera, many question the necessity of hiring a professional.

However, the essence of a wedding goes beyond just snapshots; it's about capturing the emotions and timeless moments that make the day unforgettable.

In this blog post, we will delve into the reasons why hiring a professional wedding photographer is essential for preserving the magic of your special day.

bride and groom holding each other close, portrait photography — **Venue:** **Whitmoor Country Club**

#1 - Quality Wedding Photos

Professional wedding photographers bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the table. They have honed their skills through years of capturing diverse weddings, handling various lighting conditions, and managing unpredictable situations.

Unlike amateur photographers, professionals have a keen eye for details and know how to compose shots that tell a story. Their experience enables them to anticipate touching moments, ensuring that nothing is missed on this momentous day.

This level of quality is hard to come by if you don’t have the right knowledge and camera gear.

#2 - Professional Equipment

A significant advantage of hiring a professional wedding photographer is access to top-of-the-line equipment. Professional-grade cameras, lenses, and lighting equipment ensure that every shot is captured with precision and clarity.

The use of such equipment allows photographers to adapt to various conditions, whether it's a dimly lit chapel or a bright outdoor setting, resulting in a visually stunning collection of photographs.

portrait of bride and groom through the window — **Venue:** **Wild Carrot**

#3- Exceptional Creativity

The quality of wedding photos is paramount, and it's something that professional photographers excel at. They can produce images that are not only sharp and vibrant but also artistically composed.

Creativity plays a pivotal role in wedding photography, and professionals possess the ability to craft visually stunning images that reflect the unique personalities and style of the couple.

Have you ever seen a wedding photographer use prisms, copper piping, or mirrors to create stunning wedding photos? These are just a few tools in their creative belt.

groom posing for wedding portrait — **Venue:** **Silver Oaks Chateau**

#4 - Post-Processing and Editing Skills

The work of a professional wedding photographer goes beyond just taking pictures. Post-processing and editing are integral parts of the craft.

Professionals use their skills to enhance colors, correct imperfections, and create a cohesive visual narrative. The final result is a collection of images that not only reflects the authenticity of the day but also exudes a polished and timeless quality.

couple having their first dance at their wedding reception

#5 - Understanding of the Wedding Timeline

Josh and Lindsey Photo understand the flow of a wedding day. They plan ahead by meeting with you weeks before the actual ceremony so they know all the details you have meticulously planned out.

When that big day comes, they know when and where to be to capture key moments – from the anticipation of getting ready to the emotional exchange of vows, and the intimate moments between the newlyweds.

This understanding is monumental and ensures that no crucial moment is overlooked, and the entire day is documented seamlessly.

st louis mo engagement session, josh and lindsey photo

#6 - Stress-Free Experience

Entrusting the task of capturing wedding memories to a professional photographer allows the couple and their families to relax and enjoy the celebration.

Josh and Lindsey Photo are adept at coordinating with other vendors and navigating potential challenges throughout the day without involving the wedding party.

This creates a stress-free experience for the couple, enabling them to fully immerse themselves in the magic of their wedding day.

man and woman walking through the grass engagement session — **Venue:** **Silver Oaks Chateau**

#7 - Professionalism and Reliability

Hiring a professional wedding photographer like Josh and Lindsey Photo ensures a level of professionalism and reliability that is crucial for such a significant event.

Professionals arrive on time, dress appropriately, and conduct themselves in a manner that instills confidence.

This reliability extends to the timely delivery of the final edited photos, allowing the couple to relive their wedding day shortly after the celebration.

portrait of bridal party having fun with bride, documentary wedding photography

In the digital age, where everyone has a camera, the choice to hire a professional wedding photographer may seem like an additional EXPENSE.

However, the investment in a professional is an investment in expertise, creativity, and dedication that professionals bring to the table to ensure that each moment is captured with the attention and artistry it deserves.

Entrusting Josh and Lindsey Photo with your wedding photography will undoubtedly result in a timeless collection of images that will serve as a testament to your love for years to come.