How to choose a wedding photographer!
If you’re a bride who values photography, choosing a wedding photographer can be a daunting, somewhat overwhelming task. After all, there are no re-dos and you’re spending a lot of money on your wedding. I can imagine the fear and trepidation you must feel about hiring a wedding photographer. I’ve heard far too many horror stories about wedding photographers and “a friend with a really really good camera” not delivering and newlyweds left heartbroken. From an experienced wedding photographer’s point of view, I thought I’d share a few tips and suggestions on how to select a fitting wedding photographer you can trust.
Not being biased to choose me, as I honestly believe not every couple out there are for me or I am for them. I have my own selection process too and if we are not the right fit I’ll connect you with one of my wedding photographers friends who might be.
Here are a few tips that will get you off to a great start as you select your wedding photographer:
1- Do you feel something when you look at the photographer’s wedding photos?
“Great photography is about depth of feeling, not depth of field”. I like Peter Adams quote. Passionate photographers see the world with their hearts. Each has a unique style and way of capturing your wedding day. You want to FEEL and connect with how they engage the world around them with their cameras, specifically when photographing people, wedding day celebrations, romantic and family relationships.
2 – Do you like the photographer’s personality?
Set up a meeting and get a feeling for the personality of the photographer. This is key as he or she will be with you and your guests the entire wedding day and needs to have the ability to engage people in a friendly way, make you and your guests comfortable in front of the camera, move around unobtrusively and direct, adults and kids, when necessary. He or she will also have a keen interest in YOUR story and vision to personalize the shooting style and capture your day in a real and intimate way. Make sure there is a personal connection with your wedding photographer as you select the right one for your wedding day.
3- Have a critical eye:
Timeless wedding photos are those produced with utmost care for technical aspects of photography (proper exposure, focus, composition and editing). Ask the photographers to show you whole weddings they shot and not just their best images. You need to see what a whole day looks like so you can get a proper feel for their work. Make sure there is a good balance between timeless and trendy wedding photos. Remember Instagram and Pinterest looks are cool, but you might get bored of them by next year.
4- Understand prices and value:
It happens often when couples find their perfect photographer, but realize they haven’t budgeted properly. Do your research on wedding photography costs in your area as early as possible to avoid disappointment. Additionally though, try not to shop on price or a good “deal”! Instead of “deal” look for Return On Investment. I learned that from Patrice & Rodney, a couple whose wedding I photographed. They speak about it in the video below. A good return on investment can be defined by the quality of services and products you are receiving.
I hope you find this helpful. If you have questions, wish to discuss more details on how to plan your wedding photography project with the insight of an experienced wedding photographer feel free to contact me. I’m happy to help.