How To Choose the Right Wedding Photographer and Videographer

Choosing the Right Photographer and Videographer Matters

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. It’s a day filled with love, joy, and emotions that you’ll want to remember forever. That’s why choosing the right photographer and videographer is so crucial—they are the ones who will preserve these memories for you to cherish for years to come.

Imagine walking down the aisle, seeing your partner’s eyes light up with love, and knowing that this moment will be preserved forever. That’s the power of a great wedding photographer and videographer—they capture not just the images, but the emotions, the laughter, the tears, and the joy that make your wedding day unique. In Los Angeles, where dreams come true and stories are made, your wedding day is a chance to create a love story that will be told for generations. Choosing the right team to document this story is essential.

For example, consider the story of a couple who met in Los Angeles through a chance encounter at a friend’s wedding. Years later, their own wedding photos and videos brought back the magic of that first meeting, reminding them of the journey that led to their vows. These keepsakes are more than just images—they’re a legacy of love.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Wedding Photographer and Videographer

When looking for the perfect team, consider these factors to ensure you make the best choice:

1. Style and Portfolio: Look at their work. Does it resonate with your vision? Do you see yourself in their photos and videos? Whether you prefer candid, documentary-style shots or more editorial, posed images, make sure their style aligns with what you want. For instance, some couples love the cinematic flair of Los Angeles’ urban backdrops, while others prefer the natural beauty of a Malibu beach setting.
2. Experience and Expertise: How long have they been in the business? Do they have a portfolio of weddings similar to yours? Experience matters, especially in a city like Los Angeles, where weddings can range from intimate elopements at Griffith Observatory to grand celebrations at the Intercontinental Los Angeles. A seasoned professional will know how to handle diverse venues and lighting conditions.
3. Personality and Connection: You’ll be spending a lot of time with them on your wedding day. Make sure you feel comfortable and connected. A good photographer and videographer will make you feel at ease, even in the most stressful moments. During consultations, notice if they listen to your vision and make you feel valued.
4. Reviews and Testimonials: What do past clients say about their experience? Look for reviews on platforms like WeddingWire or The Knot. Positive feedback is a great indicator of reliability and quality. For example, a couple might praise a photographer for capturing candid moments that they didn’t even notice on the day.
5. Packages and Pricing: What do they offer, and does it fit your budget? Some photographers include engagement sessions, albums, or even drone footage, while others may charge extra for these. Understand what’s included in their packages. In Los Angeles, wedding photography and videography can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the team’s experience and offerings.
6. Availability: Popular photographers book up quickly, especially in Los Angeles. Start looking early—ideally 9 to 12 months in advance—to secure your top choice. Some sources even suggest booking 18 months ahead for in-demand professionals.
7. Technical Skills and Equipment: Ensure they have the skills and gear to handle any situation, from low-light indoor venues like the Metropol Banquet in Glendale to bright outdoor locations like Rio Hondo by Wedgewood Weddings. Los Angeles offers diverse settings, so versatility is key.
8. Communication: Good communication is essential for a smooth planning process. From initial inquiries to final delivery, you want a team that’s responsive and professional. Ask about their turnaround times for photos and videos—most Los Angeles photographers deliver within 8-12 weeks.
9. Compatibility with Other Vendors: They should work well with your planner, caterer, and other vendors. A seamless team effort ensures your day runs smoothly. For example, a photographer who collaborates well with a videographer can avoid overlapping shots, creating a cohesive final product.

Top Wedding Photographers and Videographers in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is home to some of the most talented wedding photographers and videographers in the world. Here are a few top companies to consider, along with their pros and cons:

• Pixel Pie
  Overview: Led by Matt and Liza, Pixel Pie is a Southern California-based team specializing in candid, timeless, and heartfelt photography and videography. They focus on making quality affordable, with packages starting at $1,485.
  Pros: Affordable pricing, personalized service, strong emphasis on capturing genuine emotions, highly rated by couples for their approachable style.
  Cons: As a smaller team, availability may be limited during peak wedding seasons, so early booking is recommended.
  
  
• Symboll®
  Overview: A wedding photography and videography team based in Los Angeles and San Francisco, known for their storytelling approach and customized projects. They’ve shot over 1,527 weddings and offer packages that include travel in certain areas.
  Pros: Comprehensive packages, highly reviewed (605 five-star reviews), focus on customization and visual storytelling, seamless integration of photography and videography.
  Cons: May be on the higher end of the budget, and specific package details might require further inquiry.
  
  
• Lulan Studio
  Overview: Specializes in cinematic and documentary styles, with a blend of editorial and photojournalistic approaches. They’ve documented over 1,750 weddings and have been featured in publications like BBC, Zola, and Brides. They use Leica® and Hasselblad® film cameras for photography and Super 8 Film and Cinema RED® cameras for videography.
  Pros: Award-winning (35+ awards), experienced team, cinematic style that captures emotions beautifully, ideal for couples seeking a high-end, artistic look.
  Cons: No pricing information on their website, which might require more research for budget-conscious couples.
  
  
• The “I Do” Photography
  Overview: Offers both photography and videography with a blend of documentary, editorial, and fine art styles. They’ve captured over 400 weddings and have a strong focus on the “little moments” as much as the big ones, making them great for couples who value candid shots.
  Pros: Customizable packages, great reviews (400+ five-star reviews), emphasis on capturing the “flavor” of your wedding day, available in multiple cities including Los Angeles.
  Cons: Custom pricing might be less straightforward, requiring more detailed discussions to understand costs.
  
  

These are just a few examples, but Los Angeles has many other talented teams. For instance, Purity Weddings offers a sophisticated blend of editorial and documentary styles, while Ashley Noelle Edwards-Desmond brings a luxurious, timeless quality to her work. Take the time to explore their portfolios and see whose style speaks to you.

How to Make the Final Decision

Once you’ve narrowed down your list, the next step is to meet with potential photographers and videographers. Many offer consultations or even mini-shoots, which can be a great way to test the waters. Ask questions about their process, what’s included in their packages, and how they handle challenges on the day of the event. For example, how do they manage unexpected weather changes at an outdoor Los Angeles venue like Republic Venue in Sherman Oaks?

Some photographers also offer engagement sessions, which are not only a fun way to get comfortable in front of the camera but also a chance to see how well you connect with them. These sessions can be especially meaningful in Los Angeles, where you can shoot against iconic backdrops like the Hollywood Sign or the serene beaches of Malibu.

Trust your instincts—if you feel a connection and love their work, that’s a good sign. It’s also helpful to read reviews from other couples. One couple shared how their photographer captured a spontaneous moment of their grandmother laughing during the reception, a memory they now treasure. These personal touches make all the difference.

Conclusion

Choosing the right wedding photographer and videographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during your wedding planning journey. Your photos and videos will be the keepsakes you treasure for a lifetime, so it’s worth taking the time to find a team that understands your vision and makes you feel comfortable.

In a city as vibrant and diverse as Los Angeles, your wedding photographer and videographer need to be versatile, able to capture the essence of your love story against the backdrop of iconic LA landmarks or intimate garden settings. Whether you choose a team like Symboll®, Lulan Studio, The “I Do” Photography, or another talented group, make sure to do your due diligence.

And remember, the most important thing is to choose a team that you feel comfortable with and whose work you adore. Your wedding day is about you and your partner, and the right photographer and videographer will help tell your unique love story.

Now that you have a better idea of what to look for, start exploring the options in Los Angeles. If you’re looking for a team that combines quality, affordability, and a personal touch, we invite you to learn more about Pixel Pie. As Matt and Liza, we’re dedicated to capturing your special day with candid, timeless photography and videography, starting at just $1,485. We believe you shouldn’t have to choose between quality and affordability—so we offer both, without compromise. If you’d like to see how we can help turn your moments into memories you’ll cherish forever, we’d love to hear from you. Feel free to reach out—we’re here to help make your wedding day as magical as it can be.

Note: This blog post is designed to provide value and help you make an informed decision. While we’re passionate about what we do at Pixel Pie, we genuinely want you to find the perfect team for your wedding, even if it’s not us. Your memories are worth it!