Bridal Suite at Davis & Grey Farms and Taken by Molly Murphy Photography
Planning your dream wedding involves so many moving pieces, but one decision will preserve the memory forever: your photographer. Whether you’re tying the knot in Dallas-Fort Worth or hosting an outdoor ceremony in Southern Oklahoma, choosing a wedding and engagement photographer who truly gets you is essential. Your photographer is the one who captures the laughs, tears, and joy of your day, so it’s more than just “point and shoot.”
In this guide, we will walk through exactly how to choose the right wedding photographer for your big day, including expert tips, local vendor insights, and links to trusted resources like Asher Lane Bridal and our Instagram.
1. Understand Your Vision and Style
Before you book anyone, think about your aesthetic. Are you dreaming of light and airy images? Or do you love moody, editorial vibes? The best photographers in DFW and Southern Oklahoma will offer portfolios in a variety of styles, but it’s up to you to choose the one that fits your dream day.
Pro Tip: Scroll Pinterest or Instagram and save 10 images that feel like “you.” Then ask potential photographers if they shoot in that style.
2. Start Your Search Early (Like, Now)
Popular photographers book out 12–18 months in advance, especially in high-demand areas like Dallas, Fort Worth, Denton, and surrounding Southern Oklahoma towns like Durant and Ardmore. Use keywords like:
- Wedding photographers near Dallas TX
- Southern Oklahoma wedding photographer
- Engagement photographer in Northeast TX
Use platforms like:
- The Knot
- WeddingWire
- Facebook Groups
3. Ask These 8 Must-Know Questions
Once you find a few options, set up discovery calls and ask:
- What’s your photography style?
- How many weddings have you shot?
- Do you offer engagement sessions?
- What is included in your package?
- Can I see full wedding galleries?
- How do you handle low-light settings?
- Do you travel between Texas and Oklahoma?
- How long until we receive our photos? Make sure this is in your contract.
- Pricing – How many hours, how many edited images, etc.
- Do you require a contract and outline all the above? If they don’t offer you a contract I would recommend to keep looking.
These questions will help you get beyond pretty portfolios and into how they actually serve their clients.
4. Look for Local Expertise
Your wedding day timeline can be a beast. A photographer with experience shooting in venues around DFW, Northeast Texas, and Southern Oklahoma will be more equipped to handle lighting changes, unpredictable weather, and even traffic issues.
Photographers who frequently shoot in popular venues like:
- Davis and Grey Farms in Celeste TX
- White Rose Ranch Retreat in Petty TX
- Rosemary Barn in Mckinney TX
- Bethel Rock in Leonard TX
- The French Farmhouse in Collinsville TX
…will know all the best spots for portraits, golden hour, and those candid aisle shots.
5. Check Reviews (And Read Between the Lines)
Look at testimonials on Google, The Knot, and social media. But don’t just skim the star rating, read what brides actually say. Are they praising how calm the photographer made them feel? Did the photographer go above and beyond when timelines shifted?
At Asher Lane Bridal, we frequently partner with photographers who go the extra mile because we believe every bride deserves peace, joy, and celebration especially when the cameras are rolling.
6. Trust Your Gut
This might sound simple, but it’s powerful: how do you feel when talking to them? Did they listen? Do they seem excited to capture your story? Were they patient with your questions?
The best photographers create safe, joyful spaces where your most genuine smiles happen naturally. That is when the magic is captured.
7. Coordinate With Your Bridal Vendors
Photographers often work closely with your hair, makeup, gown, and decor teams. Choosing a team that has worked together before can make your wedding day smoother.
At Asher Lane Bridal, we love referring brides to photographers who align with our values: faith based, kind hearted, and committed to making every bride feel beautiful from the inside out.
You can view recommended vendors below or others featured on our here:
8. Plan Your Engagement Session Intentionally
Your engagement shoot is not just a trial run, it’s a whole vibe. Pick a location that reflects your story:
- A rooftop in Downtown Dallas
- The Fort Worth Botanical Gardens
- Lake Murray State Park in Oklahoma
- A family farm in rural North Texas
Coordinate your outfits with your wedding theme or bridal style. Ask your photographer for outfit guidance, many offer mood boards or style guides!
9. Southern Oklahoma Brides: We See You!
If you’re planning your wedding in Southern Oklahoma, from Durant to Ardmore to Calera, you’re in a gorgeous part of the country with talented creatives just a short drive away. Many DFW photographers regularly serve this area and are familiar with the natural light, rural venues, and laid-back charm.
Need help connecting with the right photo pro? Our team at Asher Lane Bridal would be honored to make a referral.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a wedding and engagement photographer is about more than pictures. It is about trusting someone to capture your covenant. Your joy. Your once-in-a-lifetime love.
Whether you are a bride in Dallas, Fort Worth, Durant, or anywhere in between, you deserve a photographer who understands your vision, celebrates your story, and reflects your values.
At Asher Lane Bridal, we believe every moment of your wedding journey should be filled with faith, love, and beauty. Follow us on Instagram for wedding day inspiration, planning tips, and our favorite photographer spotlights.
Let us help you connect with someone who will not just photograph your day, but help you remember it beautifully.
