Plus Tips for Finding Your Charleston Wedding Photographer
You’ve booked your dream Charleston wedding venue and photographer and now it’s time to build that shot list. Luckily, the city and its gorgeous surrounding landscapes set you up for stunning success. Everywhere you look, charming Southern details, iconic architecture, cobblestone streets and immaculate gardens paint an unforgettable canvas. As you dive into your wedding photography wish list, keep these points and destinations in mind.
Haven’t found your favorite Charleston wedding photographer yet? Not to worry. There is a treasure trove of seasoned local photographers waiting to capture your shared joy, your closest friends and family in one spot and your first kiss, dance and dinner party as a married couple.
Tips for Finding Your Charleston Wedding Photographer
A great rule of thumb is to research photographers and narrow it down to your top two or three. Visit their social media sites and scour their website portfolios. And then conduct interviews to see who is the best fit for your wedding. Your first interaction or meeting with a wedding photographer should feel good. You should feel heard and understood and have a sense of wellbeing around them.
Ask the Right Questions
Here’s what to ask your potential Charleston wedding photographer before you sign a contract.
- Are you available on our desired wedding date?
- How long have you been a professional photographer?
- Is this your full-time job?
- How many weddings do you shoot each year?
- How would you describe your photography style?
- What is your photo editing style?
- Will you have an assistant photographer coming with you?
- What do your wedding packages include?
- Is an engagement shoot and wedding album included?
- Are there travel fees?
- When will we receive our wedding photos?
- Are usage rights included or do we need to purchase rights to prints
Memorable Charleston Wedding Photography Settings
Of course, your wedding day shot list will anchor greatly on your venue and all of its unique, visually appealing settings. Use the following list to get inspired and embrace Charleston’s iconic charm and natural scenic appeal.
Historic Streets and Architecture: Let the city’s charming cobblestone streets, hidden alleyways and courtyards, colorful historic homes, iconic churches and wrought-iron gates accentuate your photos’ artistic edge.
Waterfront Romance: The Battery and Waterfront Park provide stunning views of the Charleston harbor and landmarks like Fort Sumter and The Pineapple Fountain, an iconic symbol of Charleston hospitality.
Southern Mansions and Gardens: Set an elegant botanical ambiance with locations like the William Aiken House, Middleton Place, Boone Hall and Magnolia Plantation.
Beachfront Bliss: Visit Folly Beach and Sullivan's Island for romantic sunlit shots by the sea.
Historic Plantation Driveways: The long, oak-lined driveways leading up to many Charleston plantations, such as Boone Hall Plantation and Drayton Hall, offer enchanting photo opportunities.
Cooper River Reflections: The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and the Cooper River provide a beautiful backdrop for photos, especially during sunset
Live Oak Canopies: The Avenue of Oaks at St. John's Chapel at Wappoo Cut is a breathtaking location for capturing romantic moments under a canopy of live oak trees.
A Friend in the Industry
Working with Novela is like having a trusted friend — one with copious insider knowledge and industry connections — by your side every step of the way. We’ll match you with an expert wedding concierge to customize your wedding day plan, including venue and vendor recommendations, detailed pricing options, a high-level budget framework, and a customized checklist just for you.
Find your perfect Charleston venue, book all your vendors, and finance your wedding at 0% interest — all in one place. Novela is the first transactional one-and-done wedding planning company.
