So, you’ve got a dress, the suits with the flowers, cakes, and a band ….but what’s the one thing that will be a lasting memory from your day? Your photos should be a beautiful and timeless record of the most significant day of your life . They will enable every bride and groom experience the romance and excitement allover again.
The process of choosing a photographer for your wedding can be a stressful process, however I hope my top five tips will help you be aware of when making a decision.
1 – Image quality/style
The professional quality of a photographer’s portfolio is the primary element that draws your attention. A professional photographer should be able provide clients different styles, capturing the personalities of the bride and groom and showcasing the happiness and joy of the wedding day. Make sure you know what style you want and make sure that the photographer has this as part of their portfolio.
If you’re drawn to a particular photographer, make sure that you inquire to see all of their work (not just the favourites they pick for their websites!) to make sure whether the quality of the images is the same across all of their images.
It is important to be aware that photographers employ different techniques for editing. If an image is extensively edited, it is likely that this will be a common theme within their photography portfolio and is typically a tactic to try to cover up low quality.
Above all, the style of the images should say something about you as couples. You can choose to go for more casual and casual photography or you would like to go for a more adventurous and modern style, make sure to do your research and shop around.
2 – Personality
As a bride or groom, you put lots of trust and confidence in your wedding photographer. To get the best photographs and a full and authentic story of the most significant moment of your lives, it is crucial that you are comfortable and relaxed around them.
You will usually know in the first five minutes after meeting someone, whether you feel a rapport or feel a connection. First impressions are key and if you instantly strike with someone, you’re on to a good thing. If you’re uncomfortable around your photographer due to any reason then this will become very apparent in your wedding photos.
Consider your guests. In the event that your wedding photographer seems approachable personable, warm and casual the guests will feel relaxed and allow the photographer to be part of the scene and document the day as it naturally unfolds rather than an overly posed and forced account.
Be aware that a real smile is unattainable to fake so pick wisely and make sure you meet your photographer several times before confirming your booking.
3. Value for money/cost
This is often an important factor that decides the fate of a lot of brides and grooms and while it’s an essential aspect but it shouldn’t be the basis for your decision. Prices that are high-end do not always guarantee the highest quality but also, reasonable prices do not always depict low quality.
Wedding photographers should be transparent about their pricing structure and, in turn, you should be clear on your budget. Both of you don’t want to be wasting time, therefore a clear dialogue right at the beginning can resolve this.
The photographer you choose should offer a variety of packages that are suitable for everyone and will always be flexible when it comes to pricing and the items included in the various packages. Your photographer will be providing an experience and each couple has different expectations and expectations, so make sure that your photographer can customize a package to meet your needs.
Be sure to inquire about any hidden extras. Certain photographers charge an additional charge for editing, VAT, preparing artwork for an album , or even meals and travel costs. It is essential to ensure that all costs are detailed in a quote before entering into any contract.
4. Experience
Experience gained by a photographer will play an important role in the planning and structure of the day. Many photographers will admit that they’ve performed the role as coordinator, photographer, master of ceremonies and kids’ entertainer. The process of taking photos is only a small part of being a wedding photographer . Without having the right experience and capability to perform under constant pressure important moments could be missed.
It is best to pick an experienced wedding photographer who has already worked at the wedding location. This isn’t a necessity but the photographer should show an ability to attend the venue on a regular basis, looking for the most ideal photo spots and opportunities as well as taking the time to run through the overall structure of the day. It is important for the photographer to meet with the wedding coordinator or venue owner to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding the schedule from beginning to end.
Be sure to inquire about how many weddings they have covered since their beginning and also how long they’ve been in the business. It doesn’t mean they’re less competent even if they’ve only been operating for a brief period of time, but it will give you a good idea of the amount of experience they have gained. If a photographer is in business for years and has experience of a plethora, you might need to verify that the style they have adopted has adapted to the times and can meet the needs of a modern wedding couple.
5 – Recommendations/Word of Mouth
A lot of my bookings have come from recommendations from previous clients as well as through word of mouth. If your friends and family have been happy with the the service and work of a photographer, likely you will be, too. Again, this should not be the sole reason behind choosing a photographer, but rather the final piece of the puzzle.
Ask your friends about their experiences of their wedding photographer. You can also attempt to take the tips and suggestions of those who have planned the wedding of their choice. A professional photographer will be able provide a testimonial from previous clients on request. They can also provide you with contact details should you wish to contact them directly.
In the end these five top tips should not be considered not to have any order in importance. Each is just as important as the next and when choosing the right wedding photographer for you it is advisable to consider a mix of all these elements is the best basis for your selection. May I wish you all the best of luck in your wedding planning . I wish you a long and happy future together.