How to Choose Your Wedding Photographer
Let’s be real for a minute.
Wedding photography is expensive. Yes, I know it. And while I, as a photographer, understand the amount of work that goes into crafting your images, I also know there are so many newly engaged brides searching out their perfect photographer only to be left in complete shock when they see that photographer’s prices.
But I really, truly believe that photography is the most important investment you’ll make for your wedding. I recognize that opinion is biased, but consider this: your day will fly by so fast, the cake will be eaten, your guests will go home, and all of the details you’ve spent months preparing will be taken down and often thrown in the trash. And over time, your memories of that perfect day when you stood up and said "forever” to your person will begin to fade, and you will be left with photographs.
Maybe your uncle has a nice camera. Maybe you know a friend willing to do it on the cheap. But the difference between a hobbyist and a professional is all the detail. The little moments and emotions that they are trained to look for. The experience in fast-paced events and the ability to be one step ahead of schedule. Knowledge of a wide range of lighting conditions. Anticipating moments and knowing where to be looking and when.
Not only that, but your attention on your wedding day will be limited and it’s impossible to be everywhere, all at once. Your photographer should be that second pair of eyes that provides a window into your wedding from the perspective of your loved ones. Tiny details and moments between friends and family are just as much a part of your wedding story as your portraits.
You want to look back at your wedding photos and feel all of it all over again. And that is exactly what you need to be searching for in a wedding photographer. I truly believe that it is possible to find a photographer who is a good match at all different price points, and I am by no means advocating you spend beyond your means just to have “the best” photographer you can find. What I am saying is, when setting your budget, keep in mind the importance of your memories. And find someone you absolutely trust to capture them for you.
With all of that said, here are a few tips on finding your perfect-match photographer.
01.
Start early
Many photographers start booking weddings a year or more in advance. Don’t leave this until a few months before your big day, or you may struggle to find a photographer you love who’s available.
Most photographers ask for a percentage of your wedding package to reserve the day for you, and you can continue to make payments as your wedding day approaches. Once you know who you want to photograph your wedding, confirm your booking as soon as possible.
02.
Find a photographer who’s style resonates with you
This should be a gut reaction. You’ll know right away if a photographer’s perspective, storytelling, and editing style are right for you. It’s a great big “yes” in your heart to the way that photographer’s images make you feel.
If you don’t feel that way looking at that photographer’s work, move on. You’ll find one that’s right for you.
03.
see a few “full” wedding collections
Any photographer can take a few of their best images and put them on their front page, but you’ll want to do a bit of deeper digging to find collections of photos from an entire wedding day. Look at how they capture details, find different perspectives, and catch quick moments. If you’re hiring a photographer for an entire day, you want to be sure that you love more than just their portraits.
Try looking in the ‘blog’ section of their website, this is often where larger sets are shared. If you love a photographer’s work but can’t seem to find a full-day set on their website, ask for one!
04.
LOOK FOR A PACKAGE THAT SUITS YOUR NEEDS
The one big question you need to be answering, not only as you choose your wedding photographer but as you plan every aspect of your day, is, “What do we value?”
You know best what moments of your day are most important to you, and how much your budget will get you. Many photographers have different packages to choose from to suit your needs, so look for a photographer who is offering what you need, or can be flexible to accommodate that.
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For reference, here are some time estimations for the day’s biggest moments: getting ready (60 minutes with the bride, 30 minutes with the groom), ceremony (30 minutes), portrait session with the couple (60+ minutes), portrait session with the bridal party (30 minutes), portrait session with family (30 minutes), dinner–first dance (2-3 hours), party & dancing (60+ minutes). Please keep in mind these are estimations and will vary based on your own schedule.
Please also take into account travel time and be sure to leave a comfortable buffer in your schedule.
05.
Get to know the photographer
Unlike most other vendors you’ll hire for your wedding, you’re actually going to be spending time, a lot of time, together with your photographer. Not only do you want to find someone who you enjoy being around, you want to ensure that you’re comfortable with the way that photographer works throughout the day.
Get to know a photographer by asking to schedule a video call or book an engagement session to experience them in action. As a bonus, you’ll also become more comfortable with being in front of the camera, relieving any anxieties you may before the big day.
The search is on.
It’s time for you to find your perfect-match photographer. I truly hope these insights will be a valuable resource as you plan your wedding day, and I wish you the most beautiful memories. If you’re interested to learn more about my wedding photography, inquire below to see my packages and get the conversation started.