Choosing a photographer is one of the many tasks couples must tick off their wedding “to do” list. However, it is arguably one the most important parts. You will use the photos in years to come to prompt memories of your special day, and they will be shared with your friends and family and with future generations. In other words, the photographs immortalize your wedding day.
Picking a wedding photographer is not as straightforward as some couples may think. You will have to take many elements into consideration including your budget and the style of photos you want. To help you in your quest for the perfect wedding photographer, here is some important information you should take into account.
Establishing the kind of photos you want
The first thing you should do is work out what style of pictures you want. If you are looking for classic, coloured prints, this will make finding a photographer straightforward. However, you may be looking for something more contemporary or unique like black and white photography or very artistic shots. In this case you should research photographers who specialize in these types of photos.
It is also important to establish how much work you expect from your photographer before sourcing. For example, if you plan to get married while bungee jumping (yes, people do that!) then you’ll need to find a willing photographer. Also, you may wish the photographer to stay around a little later or to start earlier than is standard.
Sourcing the photographer
Many people find their photographer through a recommendation from a relative or friend. If this applies to you, it is important when going off word of mouth not to assume that it is a done deal. You should still view the work of the photographer and meet with them before booking their services.
Other couples search the web for photographers. This is an effective way if you don’t have a recommendation, are looking for a unique type of photography or if your wedding is in a tricky to reach location. Most wedding photographers have a website, e.g. stephencaseyphotography.co.uk. Using their websites, photographers present examples of their work and testimonials from previous clients. But make sure you also conduct an independent search for reviews on your chosen photographer before booking. This will help you uncover any potential problems with the service they provide. It is wise to schedule a chat with any photographer sourced online as you’ll want to make sure they can meet your requirements.
Couples who are getting married on a budget often ask a friend, relative or photography student to capture the day for a reasonable fee. This can add a personal touch to your big day and is indeed an effective way to cut costs. However, it is important that you are happy with this decision, so it might be a good idea to schedule a mock photo shoot. This will allow you to see in advance how the pictures will come out.
Meeting with the photographer
Before booking and paying for their services, it is a very good idea to meet up with your photographer. If this is not going to be possible, try to schedule a chat with them over the phone or using Skype. The photographer is responsible for one of the most important parts of the day. Additionally, they will be spending a lot of time with you. For these reasons, it is vital that you feel comfortable in the company of the artist and that they understand exactly what you are looking for and can meet these needs.
The details to discuss with the photographer
The key is to provide the photographer with as much information as possible. This will make their job easier, and you are more likely to get the photos you want. Try to fit this into one meeting or two, and use email or calls to raise any additional issues that may crop up.
At the meeting, you should ask the photographer to provide you with a collection of their work if you have not already seen it. Make sure it is their full portfolio and not just examples of their best work. Discuss the type of photos you want to be taken. Do you want fun, lively shots or romantic, emotional scenes? Pick out examples of your previous work that you love, or bring examples you have found online or in wedding magazines.
As well as you and your family, tell the photographer of the other elements of the day you would like him to capture. Think of all the details you have been preparing for the last year, for example, the flowers, the favours and other decorations.
If these photos are important to you, give the photographer plenty of time to make them perfect. However, do set a reasonable timeframe so that you are not neglecting your other guests for too long.
Try to meet your photographer at the wedding venue so they can provide suggestions on good backdrops for the snaps and which areas offer the best lighting. During this meeting, you should ask your photographer for their contingency plan in case there is bad weather.
Inquire as to how you will receive the photos following your big day. This may be via a website, on a portable device or both.
Finally, request a quote for the services. Remember you will probably need to pay for their travel and eating expenses for the day. It is advised that couples avoid booking cheap photography services. Professional photographers with skills and the best kit will, of course, charge more. However, you can be sure by using these services that your photos will be of excellent quality.
Booking the photographer
Once you are happy with all the finer details – you can book your chosen photographer. Congratulations, you have found the perfect wedding photographer! We hope your big day is a success and that continue to enjoy it over the years through your photographs.
[…] family, and their guests. This style produces classic photographs that, providing you have found a good wedding photographer, you can’t really go wrong […]