How to Choose a Wedding Photographer that also Shoots Film! Flagstaff Elopement on Film
The thing about finding a wedding photographer is that there are so many to choose from—and so many great ones. People get caught up obsessing over one specific photo shoot they saw and loved. And I say photo shoot because that’s what most of those published and posted wedding images are! They’re styled shoots, like the one here, taken on film.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with styled shoots if you know it’s a styled shoot. The problem is when people think they can get those exact images on a rushed wedding day without setting aside dedicated time for them. So, when trying to find an experienced wedding photographer, first ask if your favorite images are from a real wedding or a styled shoot.
➡️ If it’s from an actual wedding day:
• How much time did they set aside for portraits?
➡️ If it’s from a styled shoot:
• How long was the shoot &
• How much time would you need on your wedding day to get similar images?
It’s All About the Vibe
Beyond comparing styled shoots vs. real weddings, you need to know you actually vibe with your photographer. That’s why word of mouth and reviews are so important when hiring an experienced wedding photographer (or any photographer, really). You want to know that real couples like you hired them—and loved their experience.
So set up a consult—it’s usually free! Talk to the photographer about who they are, and answer honestly when they ask about your relationship, love story, and the stuff that makes you you. You’re hiring someone to document one of the biggest days of your life—it should feel personal and comfortable.
Availability + Budget = Reality Check
Before you fall in love with a portfolio, check:
Are they available for your wedding date?
Are you flexible if they’re unavailable that date?
Do their packages and pricing fit your budget?
Knowing all of this upfront can save you heartbreak later on.
Ask About Their Gear (Yes, Really)
It might feel technical, but it matters. Ask things like:
What camera brand do you use?
What lenses are your go-to?
Do you own or rent gear?
THIS IS A NON-NEGOTIABLE: Do you shoot with dual card slots in case of memory failure?
Do you bring backup cameras?
If they shoot film (like I offer), make sure they also carry a digital camera as backup or have multiple film cameras ready. This is your once-in-a-lifetime day—there has to be a reliable backup for your images.
Let’s Connect
Hi, I’m Jennifer Lind Schutsky, an experienced wedding photographer based in Phoenix, Arizona. I specialize in capturing real love stories on film, digital, or both. If you're looking for timeless wedding photography that tells your story—not just poses and styled sets—let’s talk.
Paragraph format for the long format readers:
The thing about finding a wedding photographer is that there are so many to choose from—and so many great ones. People get caught up obsessing over one specific photo shoot they saw and loved. And I say photo shoot because that’s what most of those published and posted wedding images are! They’re styled shoots, like the one here, taken on film.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with styled shoots if you know it’s a styled shoot. The problem is when people think they can get those exact images on a rushed wedding day without setting aside dedicated time for them. So, when trying to find an experienced wedding photographer, first ask if your favorite images are from a real wedding or a styled shoot. If it’s from an actual wedding day, how much time did they set aside for portraits? If it’s a styled shoot, how long did it last—and how much time would you need to create similar images on your wedding day?
Besides the obvious styled shoot vs. real wedding comparison, you also want to make sure you vibe with your photographer. That’s why word of mouth and reviews are so important when hiring a Phoenix wedding photographer (or any wedding photographer, really). You want to know that people like you hired them—and their team—and had a wonderful experience.
Set up a consultation (they’re usually free!) and ask the photographer about themselves. Also, answer honestly when they ask about your relationship, love story, and what matters most to you. You’re hiring someone to capture one of the most meaningful days of your life—it should feel personal.
Before you get too emotionally attached to any wedding photographer, ask them if they’re available for your date—or if you’re flexible, find out what dates they do have available.
Don’t forget to ask about pricing and packages so you can make sure you’re within your budget. Transparency is key.
Also? Ask about their camera gear. Seriously—anything! What brand do they use? What lenses? Do they own or rent equipment? A professional, experienced wedding photographer should be knowledgeable and always shoot with backup gear and dual card slots in every camera. If they shoot film (like I do), they should also bring a digital camera as a backup—or multiple film cameras. Either way, make sure there’s a solid plan to back up all of your wedding images.
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Need help finding the right fit? I'm Jennifer Lind Schutsky, an experienced wedding photographer based in Phoenix, Arizona. I’d love to connect and talk about your love story, your wedding dreams, and how we can capture your day—on film, digital, or both.
Let’s make sure your wedding photos are more than just beautiful—they’re real and you.