So, you’re planning your big day, and maybe you’ve decided to keep things simple. Pittsburgh Courthouse, backyard setups, and brewery ceremony arches–I love them all! Maybe your keeping it small due to budget consciousness, time constraints, or personal preferences. Whatever the reason, you’re deviating from the norm. There are plenty of ways to nix items or vendors on the classic wedding planning checklist, but there is one investment you don’t want to cross off your list. Spoiler alert: it’s your wedding photographer!

Reasons Not to Skimp on Wedding Photography (Yes, Even for a Civil Ceremony)

Kristina and Dom are a gorgeous and fun-loving couple who celebrated their nuptials at a courthouse in Pittsburgh last December. These two have a contagious joy and spunk! After their Pittsburgh Courthouse wedding, they celebrated their marriage at Pins Mechanical Co. in Southside Works! What a cool way to end the night if you aren’t doing a full reception. (Pins would also work well for an offbeat engagement shoot that showcases your authentic personalities–check out this blog post for more inspiration.)

Do It Your Way!

Although their wedding day veered from tradition, they prioritized the experience, memories, and wedding photography to document it all. We captured tons of stunning shots inside the beautiful Allegheny County Courthouse and snagged some dynamic cityscape portraits too.

(Yes, you read that right, courthouses can be beautiful! In fact, instead of skipping the courthouse photos, I recommend finding an architecturally appealing courthouse for the nuptials so you can still get beautiful photos from that part of your day, too. After all, it’s a huge part of your story!)

Like these camera-loving newlyweds, if you’ve decided a more intimate affair is right for your special day, hiring a professional wedding photographer is still a must. Here are a few reasons why you should not skip out on your wedding photography. 

4 Reasons to Hire a Wedding Photographer for Your Civil Ceremony

Utilize Your Photographer’s Experience

One reason to book a local wedding photographer is because of their experience! I’ve photographed several small, intimate weddings and civil ceremonies. Even courthouse weddings require some planning and finesse to have a great experience. I would love to help you put together a timeline and get everything in order so everything is seamless—you deserve your day to feel like your wedding day!

Document Your Journey

Your wedding day is one of the most special days in your life—if not the most special. Whether you tie the knot with an intimate gathering or an elaborate event, it takes meticulous planning to make it that way! However, once it’s all said and done, the only thing that lives on from the day is your wedding photos and video.

These tangible mementos from the day you said “I do” are priceless! Professional wedding photographers have an eye and talent for capturing the special moments, big and small, that authentically portray the story of your day. Sure, a relative or friend could snap some pictures on their phone; but a good wedding photographer knows how to capture shots that instantly take you back to the magic that was your wedding celebration.

Create Priceless Keepsakes

Wedding photos are timeless keepsakes that, if done well, double beautifully as works of art. How perfect would it be to have gorgeous prints to decorate your home as you start your new life together? In addition to filling frames, professional wedding photos make for high-quality albums and keepsakes you can have and share for years. Need a picture for holiday cards or announcements? Your wedding photos are perfect for that, too!

Tell the Whole Story with an Engagement Session

When hiring a wedding photographer, many packages include an engagement session. These pictures are a perfect opportunity to showcase your genuine love for one another. Capture your distinct personalities in creative ways. It is so special to capture the joy and excitement as you anticipate and plan your wedding together. Like your wedding photos, engagement pictures make beautiful home art, announcement cards, etc. Plus, you get to have tons of fun taking them, too!

Pittsburgh Courthouse Wedding Photographer

Regardless of the size, location, or extravagance of your wedding, it is so important that it is yours. I would be honored to capture your day and let you and your love radiate from your photos. Ready to get started? Get in touch with me to reserve your date!