Choosing the right photographer for your wedding is as important as choosing the right gown or the right reception venue. Your photographs tell the story of your wedding; and, in a couple of years, they may be the only items that hold the lasting memory of the magic that happened on your special day. This is the reason why it is crucial that you choose only the best photographer to capture the moments of your wedding for posterity.
Below are 7 tips in choosing the right wedding photographer for you:
- Know Your Budget
This is perhaps the simplest rule, but a lot of couples approach potential photographers without really considering their budget. You need to establish a price range you’re comfortable with. Decide whether the 10% of your total budget is enough to cover for the photography services. Or should it be higher than 15%? It’s totally up to you.
- Consider the Photography Style
Decide which photography style you prefer. Photographers are artists, which means that no two are alike. Each will have their unique style in capturing the beautiful imagery of your wedding. The couple needs to decide the style of photos they want . Would it be traditional or avant-garde? Highly choreographed or totally candid? Purely documentary or artsy? The couple has to communicate this preference to their future photographer.
- Start Your Search and Come Up with a Short List
A good place to start is online. Professional wedding photographers maintain websites to advertise their services. Social media is also a good avenue to search for your photographer. Or you can try finding a wedding photographer using Flickr (and other similar sites).
Narrow down your search and make a short list. Quickly scratch off those who do not conform to your style and those you are just beyond your budget.
- Meet Them Personally
Call those in your shortlist and ask for a meeting. You need to be able to meet with them face to face in order to get a feel of how they are as professionals. It’s important that your photographer shows a personal touch with his dealings with you while maintaining professionalism. Find and work with someone you are comfortable with.
- Browse Through Their Portfolio
While checking their work through websites and social media can be a great gauge of a photographer’s skill, you still need to check their actual portfolio before coming up with a decision. Ask to see print copies of past weddings they worked on. While you’re at it, ask for references as well. Contact these references and find out what their experience was working with your future wedding photographer.
- See Them in Action
If you have narrowed down your list, ask the candidates to invite you to one of their photo shoot (in a studio or on location). That way, you will get a first-hand experience as to how they work. Find out if they can keep pace with your requirements. Also determine if they have the personal touch you require from your photographer. Always remember that the way your photographer handles the subject is crucial to your picture quality
- Book Your Photographer
It’s important to book your photographer right away once you’ve made your decision. These guys tend to get hired quite fast by other couples, so it’s imperative that you confirm fast. When booking, always insist that a written agreement should be drawn. This is for your benefit and protection (most professional photographers will even recommend it). In this agreement, make sure to include stipulations such as cancellation, insurance, equipment and other important details. And always specify in the agreement the extent of the service—digital copies only vs. print copies or photo books.
Follow these seven simple tips and start looking for your wedding photographer now. Always remember that the one tasked at taking pictures should not only be skilled, he or she should also be able to empathize with the subjects.
A blog post shared by BestBride101.com – Your ultimate “go-to website for all tips, guides and inspiring ideas to make your wedding… perfect!