How to Pick a Wedding Photographer...
Imagine flipping through your wedding album years from now. The smiles, the tears, the joy – all frozen in time. Your wedding photos aren't just pictures; they're a time machine back to one of the most special days of your life. That's why choosing the right photographer is so important.
Your wedding photographer is more than just someone taking pictures. They'll be there for every intimate moment and chaotic celebration. They'll be there to capture the magic.
Here's a guide to selecting the perfect wedding photographer.
1-Book your venue first.
it's a good idea to have your venue booked first before hiring a photographer. You should aim to book your photographer about nine months before your wedding day (or a year, if your photographer is in high demand).
2-Decide what style of photography you want.
Spend some time getting a sense of what style of photography you like. Maybe you like bright an vibrants colors or light and airy, or perhaps you like a more dreamy and nostalgic look. Once you've found a few photographers that you like, send them an email with your wedding date and venue and request their rates.
3- Know what you’re willing to spend
Quality wedding photography is not something to skimp on. Often, photography (and videography) can end up being one of the largest single expenses of your entire wedding. You can expect an experienced professional wedding photographer to charge anywhere from $2500 all the to way to $10000 and beyond. Packages vary, but remember their prices factor in not only their creative talent and honing of their craft, but their equipment costs, travel time and many, many hours of preparation and editing in addition to the time they’ll spend actually photographing your day.
4-Interview the photographer
Most photographers will email you a link to their portfolio of images before your first meeting. Be sure the collection includes recent weddings he or she has shot from start to finish. During the meeting, find out who exactly will shoot on your wedding day. Some larger studios employ several photographers, In all cases it's a good idea to request to see the work of the photographer (or photographers) who will be handling your wedding.
5-Go With Your Gut
Once you've evaluated each photographer's work and fees, and narrowed down the options, it's time to make your decision. Don't forget that you'll be spending the entire wedding day with this person, so you want to make sure you feel completely comfortable with the photographer. Do you and your fiancé genuinely like this person? Do you feel like the three of you click?
6-Schedule a Test Run.
An engagement photoshoot is always a good idea—it's a great opportunity to get to know your photographer and begin to feel comfortable having your photo taken, especially if you or your groom are camera-shy.
What to Ask the Photographer
- How many weddings have you photographed?
- Do you bring back up equipment?
- How many hours are included in the packages?
- When will we receive our photos?
...How to Love Your Photos.
Shot List
Making a list ahead of time will help ensure that your photographer doesn't miss any special moments. Here are some must-have to include.
- Action shots of the ceremony.
- Family and wedding party portraits.
- The scenery.
- Getting ready shots.
- Unique shots.
- Details.
- First look.
