When you are in “The Wedding Mode”, you’ll have plenty of ideas and advice to plan one of the best days of your life. And choosing a wedding photographer is one of the more important decisions you’ll make throughout the entire planning process. You’ll want to make sure that those captured memories are flawless and done so in a style that inspires and excites you.
Check out these tips below for finding a wedding photographer that fits you and your wedding day!
Photographers’ portfolios and references
The proof really is in the photographer’s portfolio samples. Set up a meeting with prospective photographers and check out their work firsthand. This will give you time to chat with them and see if there’s a good vibe between the three of you as well. You’ll want to feel comfortable, first and foremost, since you’ll be doing a lot of intimate work with this vendor.
You will also want to ask to see examples of their work and maybe even talk to past clients or call his/her references to see how they did. You can also do your homework and check out any online reviews as well – thank goodness for the Internet and social media!
Taking action shots or stills, what’s their style?
The ceremony is the main event, but don’t forget about everything else the photographer will have to capture! Make sure that their artistic eye and their photo-style is what you’re aiming for.
Is he more traditional or trendy with his photo skills? Does she go a more photojournalistic route? Talk about their specific style and really think about if it aligns with your vision for your big day and also the types of photos you’ll want to have forever. Make sure you’re both on the same page as to what’s expected – if you want a mix of posed and candid shots – talk about it!
Compare packages
Another important point of conversation with a prospective photographer has to do with the price and inclusion of their actual services. What’s going to be included in those packages that the photographer has to offer?
Are second-shooters included? Is there an “emergency plan” in place in case something happens and the photographer can’t make it to the wedding? Are any albums included? Will you have the rights to the photos when all is said and done?
Make sure that you know exactly what you’re getting and paying for. Hidden fees can be tricky so ask as many questions as necessary to make yourself comfortable with the decision.
Talk about lighting
The lighting at your wedding can make or break your photos. It’s imperative that your photographer knows what to do in all situations. Natural sunlight, sunsets, industrial buildings, fluorescents, candlelight, lanterns, twinkle lights and more; see what they have to say about making it work.
If they don’t have the knowledge, that’s a red flag. You’ll need to find someone skilled enough to shoot with what you’re offering up. Whether that’s an evening ceremony outside or in a chapel without too much light, it’s imperative that the professional is confident that they can create beautiful photographs from it. Ask for examples of similar setups and see how you like it.
After the final shot
A final point to review with a possible photographer has to deal with after the wedding is over. How will your photos be delivered?
Make sure you’re given some type of timeline and expectation. Are you looking at waiting a couple of weeks or a couple of months to be given the final look at all of your wedding shots?
Will you get a gallery to look at as well as a hi-res Jpegs on a USB drive sent to you? Do you have all rights – including publication – of the photos? You may even want to ask if you can check out the unprocessed photographs so you can have some control over them.
Plan, plan, plan
Before you go off and get hitched, make sure you plan. One of the most important days of your life needs to be captured so start looking at photographers early in the planning process.
Start your research and get the feel of what a certain photographer has while peeking at their online portfolio and galleries. Does it fit you and your loved one’s style?
Narrow down your choices to three, and then ensure they are still working and see if you can interview them by way of a free consultation. You don’t want “cold feet” when it comes time to selecting your photographer and planning correctly will ensure your confidence in the decision.
