Choosing the right wedding photographer is one of the biggest decisions you will make during your planning process. Your photos become the way you will remember your day for years to come, so it is important to find someone who fits your vision, your personality, and the atmosphere of your wedding. To help guide you, I am sharing what to look for in a photographer, along with highlights from a recent wedding I photographed at Barrie Country Club.

This celebration was filled with emotion, warm light, meaningful moments, and a beautiful setting that made the perfect backdrop for my natural and timeless photography style. Whether your wedding is in Barrie, York Region, or anywhere in the GTA, these tips will help you choose a photographer you can trust.

1. Look for a photography style you love

Every photographer has a unique style. Some focus on dramatic lighting, some prefer dark and moody tones, and others work in a bright and airy approach. My style is natural and romantic with a slight warm undertone. I want every image to feel timeless and authentic.

The Barrie Country Club wedding is a great example of this. The soft natural light, open greens, and warm reception setting allowed me to create photographs that feel real and effortless. When choosing your photographer, look through several full galleries, not just highlights. Consistency is key.

2. Choose someone who makes you feel comfortable

You spend more time with your photographer on your wedding day than almost anyone else. Comfort matters. You should feel relaxed, supported, and able to be yourselves. When you feel at ease, your photos reflect that. If you can book an engagement session with them first, do that!

During the Barrie Country Club wedding, the couple wanted a calm and stress free experience. I guided them gently when needed and stepped back to let real moments unfold. Trust and comfort made every image feel natural.

3. Check experience with different lighting and settings

A skilled wedding photographer can handle bright sun, shade, indoor ceremony lighting, evening receptions, and everything in between. Ontario weddings often shift quickly between lighting situations. You want someone who can adapt seamlessly.

At the Barrie Country Club, we photographed outdoors, indoors, and at sunset. Although it ended up being rainy and no sun to set, we worked with the videography team to create a "golden hour" using artificial lighting. Each part of the day required attention to light and atmosphere. When choosing your photographer, look for work that shows versatility in similar environments to your wedding.

4. Connect with your photographer’s personality

Your photographer should feel like a natural fit for your day. You want someone kind, organized, calm, and professional. Connection matters because it shapes how you feel in front of the camera.

Before booking, schedule a call or meeting. Use that time to see how well you connect. A great personality match leads to better photos.

5. Ask about full-day coverage, timelines, and approach

A good photographer will help you plan your timeline, understand what is important to you, and create a smooth experience. Ask about:

• How they approach candid moments
• How they give direction during portraits
• How they manage family photos
• How they handle unexpected challenges

During the Barrie Country Club wedding, communication and planning helped keep the day flowing naturally, which allowed for beautiful storytelling from start to finish.

6. Trust your instinct and choose someone whose work you can imagine on your walls

Photography is an investment in your memories. Choose someone whose work moves you and whose presence feels right. When you look through their galleries and imagine your own wedding in that same style, you have found the right fit.

Showcasing a Recent Wedding at Barrie Country Club

Below is a collection of highlights from my recent Barrie Country Club wedding. This gallery reflects my natural and timeless approach, along with the emotional storytelling that many of my couples love.

If you are planning a wedding in Barrie, York Region, or anywhere in the GTA, I would love to photograph your day.

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