One of the most important things your wedding day needs is a professional photographer . The tricky part is finding someone to do it! Trust me, I've been there. While we can go into stupid depth on this subject I honestly believe it breaks down to 5 simple steps. Have a little read below, I really hope it helps you choose your photographer. photographs are the only thing that lasts more than one day, aside from your marriage and rings. You want future generations to look at your photographs in awe and smile, just like you do when you see your parents or grandparents wedding albums. – not many other things can do that.
The tricky part is finding someone to do it! Trust me, I've been there. While we can go into stupid depth on this subject I honestly believe it breaks down to 5 simple steps. Have a little read below, I really hope it helps you choose your photographer.
Style.
As a couple, sit down and decide what kind of images you will want from the day. For example would you like it to be formal? Or more of a freestyle candid approach where all the little details are captured? Would you like to have a classic timeless feel, or a bold, edgey, ultra modern look? Once you have decided on a look you like and believe it will suit you, that will help refine your search from the get go. Check out more than just a few images, make sure you see at least 3 whole weddings through the day as it develops in photos, it will show you how reliable the photographer is and how they work.
Personality.
A photographer’s personality is a huge part of the day. How many weddings have you been to where the photographer was so demanding that it put everyone off? Especially the now mother in-law? Emails are great, and so are phone calls, but nothing is better than meeting your photographer in person or even Skype as I do with my long distance clients. Set up a time to have a coffee and see them face to face. You will know if they are right for you just after a short face to face chat. Its also a great time to see there photography first hand in prints or albums. Ask to see examples of final products so you know what quality to expect.
Word Of Mouth.
A lot of my work has come through from recommendations from family or friends of previous weddings. Word of mouth travels, and so does the reputation of the photographer. Ask friends or family who have been married what they liked or didn’t about their wedding photographer, and use that as research. That may even bring up questions to ask your potential photographer in person or by email. I have even found my name being mentioned on Facebook wedding groups (thankfully all good) ask around and see what others think about the photographers work as well. While the wedding day is for the both of you to do what you like, its always good to hear others opinions.
Experience.
Experience plays a huge part in choosing your photographer. An experienced photographer will sometimes become the wedding co-ordinator, master of ceremonies, or even children’s entertainer. At the end of the day, you won't have done the ‘wedding thing’ as often as us who do it several times a month. I have even helped groomsmen write speeches while photographing them getting ready in the morning. It’s good to find out how and why they started photography, and how long they have been doing it for. Also check that they have moved with the times and are not static in their mindset or work, Unless you like that kinda thing.
Price.
People always ask me why wedding photographers charge what they do. Your wedding photographer will be working on your wedding for easily a week, maybe more. Paying for travel, accommodation, camera kit, insurance, website up-keep, etc. is all factored into the total cost. Price can often be a deciding factor for a lot of brides and grooms, and although it is a vital element, it should not be the basis for your decision. High-end prices do not always guarantee the highest quality but likewise, reasonable pricing does not always depict low quality.
A photographer should be open about their pricing structures, and in turn you should be clear on your budget. Neither one of you wants to waste any time so a clear dialogue right from the beginning will resolve this. Your photographer should offer a variety of packages to suit all and should always be flexible with pricing and what is included within each package. Your photographer is providing a service and each couple will have different expectations and requirements so do make sure that you pick a photographer that can tailor make a package to suit your needs.
I really hope this has helped you, thanks for reading... If you have any further questions, or even if you wish for myself to photograph your big day, then please do get in touch!
If you're curious on my pricing structure then you can see and enquire about your day here!
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