Why Your Small Wedding Needs a Professional Photographer

I’ll admit it – I actually love big weddings. My own wedding was pretty big and it was an incredible day with so many family and friends. But if I was planning it today, I would probably make it much more intimate now that I’ve seen how beautiful a smaller event can be without feeling like you’re missing anything. 

During the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, I had the opportunity to safely shoot several backyard celebrations outdoors. Most were scaled back versions of what the clients originally envisioned. Yet there was something special about focusing on what really matters when you celebrate a major life milestone. The guest lists were well-curated, the decor was simpler yet meaningful, and there was absolutely no shortage of joy.  As the photographer, I was able to blend in seamlessly with the families and document genuine smiles and candid moments. 

Aside from the safety limitations of a global pandemic, there are many reasons couples might plan a more intimate wedding. And of course they shouldn’t have to sacrifice any of the love, traditions, or fun. With a smaller event, there are fewer moving pieces which means less stress for everyone involved . An intentional guest list means you eliminate the hassle of things like seating drama and getting to spend more quality time with everyone. And since you’re not feeding 200 people, you can make thoughtful budget choices on the things that matter most. 

Why a Professional Photographer is Non-Negotiable for an Intimate Wedding

Speaking of budget choices, I believe strongly in prioritizing professional photography. (I know you’re thinking “that’s because you are one!” but hear me out!) Most guests won’t remember what was served for dinner, the flowers in the centerpieces, or whether the liquor was top-shelf. They remember the smiles, the tears, the laughter. They remember funny toasts and wild dancing. And guess what? Those are the things you’ll remember too! You’re going to want to revisit the day for years to come especially the moments you may not have been aware of at the time. 

That’s where I come in. An investment in photography means I get to focus on every detail and guest in attendance. I love not only getting to know the couple, but also their families and friends. By the end of the evening, you might even forget that I’m a hired vendor!

3 Things To Consider

1. Your Wedding Might Be Small, But the Memories Are Huge
   An intimate wedding means more personal interactions and unscripted moments—heartfelt conversations, deep belly laughs, and the cozy feeling of being surrounded by your favorite people. You need someone who not only knows how to look for and document every single detail, but also is someone who fits in seamlessly with your tight-knit crew. These moments might not come with a grand ballroom backdrop, but they’re just as important (if not more!). A photographer will ensure those big emotions and intimate feelings are captured and preserved forever.
   
2. No One Has to Play ‘Designated Photographer
   Without a photographer, someone— your mom, your uncle’s partner, the guest with the fanciest phone—will end up feeling responsible for capturing the day and getting the perfect shots. But wouldn’t you rather have everyone fully present instead of stuck behind a camera? Your best friend’s iPhone might be great for selfies, but a professional photographer captures the real magic—those in-between moments, stolen glances, and happy tears that make your day unforgettable. Let your guests enjoy the party, and leave the photos to someone who’s there just for that! 
   
3. You’ll Actually Get to Relive the Day
   Having a photographer means you’ll get to see and feel the day all over again, even the moments you missed in the whirlwind of love and celebration. Those moments won’t just live in your memory but will be captured beautifully to enjoy for years to come. You need well-timed, heartfelt images that truly tells your love story. Think about what you want framed on your wall for the next 30 years. Professional images have timeless quality—perfect lighting, sharp focus, and artistic storytelling that makes each image feel like a work of art. Your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event. You deserve photos that don’t just look good now but will still make your heart swell decades later.

Have I Convinced You?!

No matter the size of your wedding, your love story deserves to be documented beautifully with photos that last a lifetime! Let’s chat! Your future self will thank you.