How to Choose a Wedding Photographer
Most people that know me or has worked with me, know that I consider photographers one of the most valuable vendor you will hire. They capture all the details and memories that you will cherish for years to come, reminding you of such a perfect day. This is the one vendor that I recommend you put as a priority in the budget. Of course, I also recommend that you talk with your planner about photography and let them help you in finding the perfect one!
Below are a few things to consider when looking and hiring your photographer.
Define the Style that you are looking for. Every photographer has their own style. As you are looking through their portfolio make notes on each one of what attracts you. You should at least choose two at this time to look at. What do they have in common? Are the light and airy or dark and moody? Do you like the style and posing you see on their websites? This should help you in aligning the style you are looking for.
Time to do your homework. Look into their websites, social media. Ask them for full galleries so you can view an entire one of what they captured. You want to see more than the portraits of the bride and groom but also shots of families and the party at the reception. Everyone will always post the best of their best. Look into their reviews to make sure that they are professionals and not just a hobbyist.
Time to chat with the photographers. The photographer will be with you all day, did you have a connection with them, did they make you feel comfortable while talking with them. Some questions you should be asking.
1. How long have you been in business? How many weddings have you shot, and how many weddings do you shoot in a year?
2. What is included in your package? Does it include an engagement session, bridal session? What other products are included, albums, prints, USB?
3. How many total hours are included in your package? What is the cost to add additional hours?
4. Will you be my actual photographer on the day of? Do you use an associate, or a second shooter?
5. What’s your preferred shooting style: sticking to a shot list or keeping it loose? How do I let you know some of the particular shots I want?
6. What happens post-wedding? Do I get any sneak peaks? How many images can I expect? How long is your turnaround time? How long do I have access to my photos online?
Time to sign the contract. You should be excited at this point that they answered all the questions right and you felt a connection. Now it is time to see it on paper. Read the contract or have your planner review it with you. Are you covered if the photographer can’t make it the day of your wedding? Does the contract look out for you as a client or just them as a vendor?
Long blog, I know. But honestly, no day is perfect and there are always small things that go upside down or not exactly the way you planned. The one thing that you should be able to look back on are the memories and details of your big day from captured by your photographer. Don’t choose this vendor just based on the pricing, research them!