Choosing a wedding photographer is right up there with choosing the person you are going to marry. Well, maybe not THAT important. You won’t spend the rest of your life with your wedding photographer, but you will have your wedding photos for years and years to come. Choosing the right wedding photographer can be a little challenging when considering the vast number of pros available. Here are some basic guidelines to choosing your ideal wedding photographer.
Budget. Have at least a ballpark range of where you would like to be on your photography budget. Take note of what is included in your bundle like hours, number of photographers, number of edited images, engagement sessions, prints, etc.
Style. Surprise! No two wedding photographers are the same. There are several styles out there: light, ethereal, candid, posed, moody, modern…the list goes on and on. Save photography styles you like from Pinterest and Instagram and compare with the photographers you are considering.
Portfolio. Once you are settled on a style and a few photographers that hit the mark, ask to review a couple of their full wedding galleries. This will give you more insight into what you will be receiving as a final product outside of the highlighted photos you see on Instagram.
Venue. Your venue will have a distinct lighting – bright, dark, natural, indoor, outdoor – your photographer will need to know your venue and how to shoot there to give you the desired effect you are looking for. (Bonus…ask to see full galleries from your venue (or venues) of choice!)
Round One. Use an engagement session to test the waters with your photographer. If you don’t like the outcome of the photos, then you have time to hire someone new for the big day.
Timeline. Most couples are anxious to get their photos back after the wedding day. Ask your photog how long it will take before the gallery is delivered and if there is an opportunity to get a few highlighted, sneak-peek photos early.
Vibe. It is vital that you like your photographer, not just the photos they create. Having a good vibe with your photographer will make your whole experience so much more enjoyable.
Happy Planning!
Contributing Photographer:
Beatbox Portraits