“Have you ever been to or shot at our venue before?” is easily one of the most asked questions I get during a consultation call. It’s a valid question, but here’s the truth: it doesn’t matter nearly as much as you think it does! Below is everything you need to know regarding

1. Why this question isn’t critical and

2. What you should focus on instead when choosing your photographer.

Why It Doesn’t Matter If Your Photographer Has Shot at Your Venue

There are literally hundreds and hundreds of wedding venues in New England. It’s impossible for any photographer to have worked at all of them. And that’s okay! A photographer’s job isn’t about memorizing specific locations but about adapting to each unique situation.

Every wedding day is different because the factors that shape your photos—like lighting, season, and time of day—are constantly changing. For example:

• A location that works beautifully in the summer might not be ideal in the winter.
• Sunny, golden hour light calls for entirely different placement than overcast skies.

Even if I’ve shot at a venue before, I’ve never approached it the same way twice. The key is not familiarity with the venue but understanding how to use the environment—and especially the light—on that specific day.

How Lighting Shapes Your Photos

Light determines everything. It’s the first thing I’m looking at when deciding where to place my clients. Location always comes second. That’s why I might choose a spot that seems unconventional at first—like the side of a parking lot or an alleyway—but ends up producing the most stunning images in your gallery.

For instance, I’ve shot in what seemed like less-than-ideal spots, only to have my clients fall in love with the results. Why? Because the light made all the difference. This is where experience matters most: knowing how to read light and position you in it to create magical photos.

The Benefits of a Fresh Perspective

Photographing at a new venue is where my creativity thrives. Seeing a location for the first time allows me to explore its unique features with fresh eyes and discover new possibilities. My mind races with ideas for creating images that feel as special and unique as your wedding day.

On the flip side, frequently shooting at the same venue can sometimes lead to redundancy. While the locations may be beautiful, a new space often brings an energy and excitement that translates directly into your photos.

What to Look for in a Photographer

Rather than focusing on whether a photographer has worked at your venue, here’s what really matters:

• Experience and Expertise: You want someone who understands lighting and knows how to make the most of any location.
• Connection and Comfort: Choose a photographer you feel comfortable with—someone who will guide you through the day with ease and enthusiasm.
• Creativity and Adaptability: Hire someone who can think on their feet, get creative with locations, and make the process fun and enjoyable.

When you invest in a professional photographer, you’re not just paying for photos. You’re investing in someone who will lead you with confidence, hype you up, and capture your day in a way that feels authentic to you.

The Bottom Line

Although it’s a fair question to ask if you’re unfamiliar with the process, don’t hire a photographer solely because they’ve worked at your venue before. Instead, trust their expertise, creativity, and ability to adapt to your unique day. After all, you’re hiring a creative for a reason—to bring your vision to life in a way that’s uniquely yours.