Why Las Vegas is a HORRIBLE place to get your wedding/elopement photos

10/5/24 #3

Spoiler: It’s Not Las Vegas—It’s Your Photographer!

When you think of Las Vegas, you probably picture iconic landmarks, glittering lights, and a vibe unlike any other city in the world. It’s no wonder couples flock here to tie the knot. But when it comes to capturing those magical moments, Las Vegas has earned a bad rap, with some couples leaving disappointed by their wedding or elopement photos.

So, why is Las Vegas the worst place to have your wedding photos done? Well, it’s not because of the neon lights or the desert backdrop—it’s because many couples don't take the time to choose the right Las Vegas wedding photographer. Getting married in Las Vegas is such a fun experience, so why ruin the experience with a bad photographer?

Let’s dive into how you can make sure you don’t make the same mistake.

The Magic of Las Vegas Requires More Than Just a Camera

Las Vegas offers an abundance of vibrant, unique, and visually stunning settings for your wedding or elopement photos. From the iconic Strip to the serene beauty of Red Rock Canyon, it seems like a dream backdrop for any couple. But here’s the catch: it takes a skilled Las Vegas wedding photographer to truly capture the essence of Vegas without making it look tacky or rushed. Yes, having a camera is one thing, but if you don’t have the knowledge of the layout of Las Vegas wedding venues nor the proper compositional mindset, then you don’t have the full package.

Many times, couples hire a photographer based on price alone, or even worse, they pick someone at the last minute. The result? Your photos fall flat, there’s no taste, and the magic of the moment is lost forever. (TIP: You get what you pay for in this industry.)

An exception might be choosing a photographer based on their large portfolio, but failing to see if that photographer fits your style and needs for these once-in-a-lifetime moments. Take time to reach out to multiple Las Vegas photographers, review their portfolios, and discuss what you like and don’t like.

Why the Wrong Photographer Will Ruin Your Vegas Wedding Photos

Here’s the reality—Las Vegas wedding photos are only as good as the person behind the lens. A photographer who doesn’t know how to deal with Vegas’ unique lighting conditions, unpredictable weather, or bustling crowds will struggle to capture the magic you’re after.

The wrong photographer will:

  • Fail to manage harsh sunlight during the day, resulting in overexposed or flat images.

  • Struggle with evening shots, where the dynamic city lights require precise balancing to avoid underexposure.

  • Miss out on spontaneous moments because they’re not familiar with the fast-paced nature of Las Vegas elopements and weddings.

Having a camera is one thing, but understanding the Las Vegas wedding chapel layout and having the proper compositional mindset is another. In other words, make sure your potential photographer is experienced.

How to Choose the Right Wedding Photographer in Las Vegas

The truth is, Las Vegas is an incredible place to get married or elope—if you have the right photographer. Here’s how to make sure you choose the perfect one:

a) Review Their Portfolio for Variety

Don’t just glance at a few wedding photos on their website. Dive deep into their portfolio and look for versatility. Las Vegas weddings can range from quirky (think Elvis officiating in a neon-lit chapel) to classic and elegant (a desert backdrop at sunset). Make sure your photographer can handle both—and everything in between.

b) Ask About Their Experience with Vegas Locations

Las Vegas offers everything from glitzy hotel venues to natural desert scenery. Does your photographer have experience shooting at Las Vegas wedding chapels or elopement spots? A photographer who knows Vegas will have great suggestions for where to shoot, based on lighting, time of day, and how crowded certain spots will be.

c) Check Their Ability to Handle Harsh Lighting

The desert sun can be brutal, and nighttime Vegas is a whirlwind of neon and movement. Your photographer should be able to handle extreme lighting conditions. Ask them how they approach both daytime and nighttime wedding shoots. If they can’t give you a detailed answer, keep looking.

d) Read Reviews and Ask for Testimonials

Don’t skip this step! Real client reviews will give you an inside look at what it’s like working with the photographer. Were they professional, on time, and easy to work with? Did they capture the most important moments? Feedback will help you gauge their reliability and talent. Look for reviews of Las Vegas wedding photographers who specialize in the type of wedding or elopement you’re planning.

Budget Wisely, But Don’t Go for the Cheapest Option

Weddings can be expensive, and it’s tempting to save where you can. But your wedding or elopement photos are a once-in-a-lifetime thing. You don’t want to skimp on the one thing that will last long after the ceremony.

This doesn’t mean you need to break the bank, but investing in a talented Las Vegas wedding photographer with experience will pay off. They’ll know how to make you and your partner look stunning while also capturing the energy and spirit of the city.

Final Thoughts: Las Vegas Isn’t the Problem—It’s the Photographer

So, is Las Vegas the worst place to have your wedding or elopement photos done? Absolutely not. In fact, it might be one of the most exciting and vibrant places to capture your big day. The problem lies in choosing the wrong photographer. The right one will know how to balance the unique environment, capture unforgettable moments, and make your Las Vegas wedding photos something you’ll cherish forever.

Don’t leave your wedding memories to chance. Choose a photographer who knows Las Vegas inside and out—and who will bring your vision to life.