How to Choose the Right Wedding Photographer in Northeast PA (So You Feel Comfortable, Seen & Truly Yourself)

Choosing your wedding photographer is about more than just liking someone’s photos. You’re inviting this person into some of the most emotional, intimate, and meaningful moments of your life.

For couples planning weddings or engagement sessions in Northeast Pennsylvania, especially those in LGBTQ+ relationships, finding a photographer who feels right matters just as much as finding one whose work you love.

Here’s how to know you’re making the right choice.

Start With a Photographer Who Makes You Feel Comfortable

One of the biggest questions to ask yourself is simple:

Do I feel comfortable being myself in front of this photographer?

This matters even more for couples who may not see themselves represented everywhere in the wedding industry. Your photographer should create a space where you don’t feel awkward, overly posed, or unsure of how to show affection.

A great photographer will:

• Give gentle direction without forcing moments

• Let your personalities shine through

• Create images that feel natural and honest

Look for Experience Beyond “Pretty Photos”

Beautiful photos are important — but experience is what keeps your day running smoothly.

An experienced wedding photographer in Northeast PA will know:

• How to work with unpredictable weather

• How to adjust timelines without stress

• How to handle emotional family moments with care

• How to photograph a wide range of couples and dynamics

When you browse galleries, look for full wedding stories, not just highlight reels.

Representation Matters (Even When It’s Subtle)

You don’t need a photographer whose entire brand revolves around labels — but you do deserve one who values respect, comfort, and authentic connection.

This often shows up in:

• How couples are spoken to and guided throughout the day

• The language used on a photographer’s website and during communication

• The variety of relationships and stories represented in their work

• How comfortable you feel expressing real emotion in front of the camera

  
  

No matter who you are or who you love, your photographer should create an environment where you feel relaxed, supported, and free to be yourselves.

Engagement Sessions Are a Huge Clue

One of the best ways to know if a photographer is the right fit is through an engagement session.

Engagement photos allow you to:

• Get comfortable in front of the camera

• Learn how your photographer directs and communicates

• See how your connection is captured

• Build trust before the wedding day

For many couples, this session is what confirms they made the right decision.

Local Knowledge Makes a Difference

Hiring a photographer familiar with Northeast PA locations is a major advantage.

Local photographers know:

• The best photo spots in Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, the Poconos, and beyond

• Which venues photograph best at certain times of day

• How to plan around seasonal light and weather

• How to create variety even at familiar venues

  
  

This experience translates directly into stronger, more intentional images.

 Planning a 2026 or 2027 Wedding in Northeast PA?

If you’re currently planning:

• A 2026 or 2027 wedding

• An engagement session

• Or you’re just starting to research photographers

Now is the perfect time to connect with someone whose work, values, and approach align with yours.

Contact About Your Wedding

Manda Jean Photography serves couples throughout Northeast & Central Pennsylvania, offering inclusive, emotionally driven wedding and engagement photography for couples who want images that feel like them.

📩 Now booking weddings & engagement sessions for 2026 and 2027.