Looking for a wedding photographer in Miami or the Florida Keys for your big day? You’re in the right place! From breezy beach ceremonies in Islamorada to elegant downtown celebrations, here are some tips that will help you choose the perfect wedding photographer—someone who will help you feel confident, relaxed, and totally yourself in front of the camera—no matter where or how you say “I do.”
Planning a wedding in the Florida Keys or Miami? First off—congratulations! You’re about to marry the love of your life in one of the most beautiful places in the world. (Nope, not being biased at all!)
Whether you’re dreaming of a barefoot ceremony in Islamorada or an elegant rooftop soirée in downtown Miami, choosing the right wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. As someone who photographs weddings all over the Keys and South Florida, I’ve seen firsthand how much thoughtful planning (and a little insider knowledge) can elevate the entire experience.
So if you’re in the middle of searching for your photographer, or just want to feel more prepared for what to expect—I’ve put together some honest, experience-based advice I give to all my couples based on all of the questions I usually get as a wedding photographer. Let’s dive in!
Questions I Get as a Wedding Photographer in Miami and the Florida Keys
1. What’s one thing you wish every couple knew before hiring their wedding photographer?
I wish more couples knew this up front: not all photography styles are created equal. And that’s a good thing!
Before you even book a photographer, you have to know what photo style actually feels like you. You gotta spend some time scrolling through portfolios and asking yourself: Could I see myself in these photos? Do you prefer rich, true-to-color tones or something more airy and romantic?
The editing style matters just as much as the way your photographer shoots. Some photographers lean into a more editorial, posed aesthetic. Others (like me) tend to focus on documentary-style moments—candid laughter, quiet glances, movement, emotion. And if you’re not entirely sure what I mean by that, here’s a peek into Rebecca & Graysen’s sunset wedding at Baker’s Cay, which I recently covered.
Once you know what speaks to you, you’ll feel so much more confident in your choice—and your photos will feel like you.
2. What sets your approach apart from other wedding photographers, especially for destination or Florida Keys weddings?
For one thing, I always make it a point to hop on a call or Zoom with my couples before booking, just to make sure that we’re a match! And the reason behind that is simply because I believe there’s more to hiring a wedding photographer than just choosing someone whose photos you like. It’s more about picking someone who actually vibes with you. In fact, here’s what a bride has to say about her experience working with me:
Claudia! Not enough words to describe her professionalism, work and amazing style! She felt like family at our wedding. She made everyone feel comfortable and knew exactly what to do at all times. If you’re thinking of hiring a wedding photographer: Claudia Rios is your choice! We did lots and lots and LOTSSS of research and she exceeded all of our expectations.
Lorely
Now I’m not saying you shouldn’t be looking at a photographer’s work, because that’s something you definitely should be checking. But make sure you don’t just choose them based on their work. Especially for destination weddings in the Keys or Miami, your photographer isn’t just someone showing up with a camera—they’re going to be with you for most of your day. So chemistry matters.
Do they make you feel at ease? Are they responsive and kind? Do they ask thoughtful questions about your vision? The more comfortable you are with them, the more natural your photos will be.
3. How do you help your couples feel relaxed and confident in front of the camera—especially if they’re camera shy?
My secret sauce for this will always be the engagement session. Seriously. An engagement session is a game-changer. That is why I always tell the couples I work with to try to carve out time for a pre-wedding shoot.
For one thing, it gives the couples I shoot a chance to shake off the nerves and get comfy in front of the camera before the big day. No pressure, no timeline—just the two of them hanging out while I third-wheel with a camera, just like what I did with Taylor & Michael’s engagement shoot.
If you’re camera shy, I totally get it—and I’ve got tricks to ease the nerves. My approach is low-pressure, upbeat, and real. Think more cozy cuddles and spontaneous laughter than stiff smiles so it feels more like a fun date than a photoshoot.
You don’t need to show up knowing how to pose like a model. In fact, please don’t stress about that. My job is to create a space that feels fun, warm, and comfortable—so it’s more about being in the moment than posing for the camera.
If an engagement session isn’t possible—especially for out-of-town or destination couples—I make sure we’re still building that connection through texts, phone calls, or Zoom. By the time the wedding day arrives, we’ve already had conversations, so I’m not just a stranger showing up with a camera. That familiarity makes a huge difference in how relaxed and confident they feel.
4. What’s one part of the wedding day you love capturing the most, and why?
This is a tough one because I honestly enjoy every part of the wedding day! I love watching the story unfold—from the quiet, emotional moments to the big joyful celebrations.
But if I had to choose, the “getting ready” time really stands out. There’s something so intimate and meaningful about those quiet moments with the bride and her loved ones—the excitement, the nerves, the final touches. I also love capturing first looks—whether it’s with dad or with the groom—because the reactions are always so real and full of emotion.
The ceremony is, of course, such a powerful part of the day. I never get tired of documenting the vows, the first kiss, and all the meaningful glances between the couple. And then there’s the reception—when the energy shifts and everyone’s cheering, celebrating, and welcoming the couple as newlyweds. That first dance, the toasts, the joy—it’s such a full-circle moment.
5. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to couples when it comes to planning their wedding photography?
Prioritize open and consistent communication with your photographer.
This isn’t just someone showing up with a camera—it’s someone who’s going to be by your side for most of the day, capturing some of the most meaningful moments of your life. Build trust and feel a real connection. That’s everything.
Once you’ve narrowed down your list, hop on a call (or Zoom!) and ask allll the questions. Get a feel for their vibe, style, and how they show up for their couples. Following each other on Instagram is also a fun way to get a peek behind the scenes and see if your personalities match.
And don’t be afraid to share your vision—whether it’s a few inspo pics, favorite poses, or just the kind of energy you want your photos to reflect. It’s not about micromanaging every shot, but about collaborating with someone who gets you and can bring your story to life in a way that feels like you.
6. How do you help couples plan a photography timeline that works with their wedding day flow?
This part is so important—and honestly one of my favorite things to help with! I always start by sending over a detailed questionnaire that walks through the big (and small) moments of your day—from getting ready with your crew to any special traditions or surprise reception details.
Once I have your answers, I’ll piece everything together and draft a timeline that reflects what you care most about. Then we hop on a call to walk through it together, fine-tune the details, and make sure it feels just right.
The goal? A timeline that gives us plenty of room to capture all the magic without ever feeling rushed or overwhelmed. And bonus—it helps your planner, family, and vendor team stay in sync so the whole day flows like a dream.
Plus, it helps us expect the unexpected (which is super important especially in the Keys!)
That said, here’s your friendly reminder: things might not go perfectly—and that’s okay. Maybe it rains, just like what happened with Ashley and Cameron’s wedding at Ocean Reef Club! Maybe the tide is higher than expected. Maybe your flower girl decides to nap during portraits (yes, that’s happened). But if we’ve planned intentionally and trust each other, we’ll roll with it and still get beautiful moments.
Some of my favorite images have come from those unscripted, imperfect slices of real life. And that’s what makes your gallery uniquely yours.
7. What’s one thing couples often forget to plan for when it comes to wedding photos—but definitely should?
I guess the one thing that most couples forget to plan for is their photo timeline. And by that, I mean telling your VIPs (like parents, siblings, and bridal party) where they need to be and when. For example, if we’re doing family portraits after the ceremony, it’s really important that those family members know to stay behind instead of heading to cocktail hour. Otherwise, we end up chasing people down, which can add stress and take time away from other moments.
This is why I always recommend that couples give their families a heads-up in advance—who needs to be where, and by what time. It helps everything run smoother and keeps us on track. It’s such a small thing that makes a big difference!
Still Looking for a Wedding Photographer in Miami or the Florida Keys?
If you’re still searching for the right Florida Keys or Miami wedding photographer, I’d love to connect and hear more about your day. Let’s create something beautiful together.
No matter where you’re saying “I do”—a historic hotel in Miami or a beachfront resort in Islamorada—your photos should feel like an honest, joyful reflection of your story. I hope these tips help you feel more prepared (and a little more excited) about what’s ahead!
Ready to chat? I’m just a message away!
