CHOOSING WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER IN 8 STEPS

Choosing a wedding photographer can be a daunting task for any couple planning their special day. After all, your wedding photographs are the memories that will last a lifetime. You want to make sure that you choose a photographer who not only captures the special moments of your wedding day but also does so in a way that reflects your personal style and vision. Here are eight steps to help you choose the right wedding photographer for you:

Determine your budget

Before you start looking for a wedding photographer, it’s important to determine how much you can afford to spend. Wedding photography can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars, depending on the photographer’s experience, style, and location. Once you have a budget in mind, you can start looking for photographers who fit within your price range.

Decide on a photography style

Wedding photography comes in many different styles, from traditional and formal to modern and photojournalistic. Decide what style of photography you prefer and look for photographers who specialize in that style. This will help ensure that you get the type of photos that you want.

Check out portfolios

Once you have a list of potential photographers, take the time to look at their portfolios. Most photographers have a website where they showcase their work, or you can ask to see samples of their previous work. Look for photos that capture the emotions and moments that are important to you. Pay attention to the quality of the images, the composition, and the lighting.

Read reviews

Reviews from previous clients can give you an idea of what it’s like to work with a particular photographer. Look for reviews on the photographer’s website, social media, or wedding websites like The Knot or WeddingWire. Pay attention to comments about the photographer’s professionalism, communication skills, and ability to capture the couple’s vision.

Meet with potential photographers

Once you have narrowed down your list of potential photographers, set up meetings to get to know them better. This is your chance to ask questions, discuss your vision for your wedding, and get a feel for their personality and communication style. You want to make sure that you feel comfortable with your photographer and that they understand your needs and expectations.

Ask about packages and pricing

During your meeting, ask about the photographer’s packages and pricing. Find out what is included in each package and if there are any additional fees or charges. Make sure that you understand the contract and the payment schedule.

Discuss the timeline

Make sure that you discuss the timeline for your wedding day with your photographer. This will help ensure that they are prepared and that they know when and where to be throughout the day. You want to make sure that you get all of the important moments captured, from getting ready to the reception.

Trust your instincts

Finally, trust your instincts when choosing a wedding photographer. You want to work with someone who you feel comfortable with and who understands your vision for your wedding day. If something doesn’t feel right, keep looking until you find the right photographer for you.

Choosing a wedding photographer can be a time-consuming process, but it’s worth it to ensure that you get the best possible photos of your special day. By following these eight steps, you can find a photographer who will capture the magic and beauty of your wedding day for years to come.

What is the difference between documentary and traditional wedding photography?

The main difference between documentary style wedding photography and traditional wedding photography is their approach to capturing the wedding day. Traditional wedding photography is often more posed and directed, with the photographer taking control of the situation to create a specific image. On the other hand, documentary style wedding photography takes a more candid and unobtrusive approach, capturing the events of the day as they naturally unfold.

In traditional wedding photography, the photographer may spend time staging shots, adjusting lighting, and posing the couple and their guests. They will often take control of the situation and direct people into certain poses or positions, resulting in a more structured and posed look to the images. Traditional wedding photography tends to focus on capturing formal portraits of the couple, family, and guests, and less on the candid moments.

In contrast, documentary style wedding photography takes a more spontaneous approach, capturing the natural moments of the day without interfering or directing. The photographer will be a fly on the wall, capturing candid moments and emotions as they happen. This results in a more authentic and natural look to the images, with a focus on capturing the true emotions and feelings of the day.

Documentary style wedding photography also tends to have a more storytelling approach, capturing the events of the day in a chronological order, creating a visual narrative of the wedding day. This approach results in a collection of images that tell the story of the day, capturing not just the formal portraits but also the little details and candid moments that might have been missed.

In conclusion, while traditional wedding photography and documentary style wedding photography both aim to capture the wedding day, they take very different approaches. Traditional wedding photography is more posed and structured, while documentary style wedding photography is more candid and natural. The choice between the two styles ultimately comes down to personal preference, with some couples preferring the traditional look, while others opt for a more spontaneous and authentic approach.

FAQs

How far in advance should I contact you?

To make sure I have your date available, I recommend you book at least a year in advance. That said, I have done weddings booked within 3-4 months