Your wedding photos are the most treasured keepsake from your special day so it’s only natural to want them to be perfect. It’s important to find the best photographer who will capture each and every precious moment. We have put together a list of everything you should look for when choosing the right wedding photographer for you.
Suit Your Style…
There are so many wedding photography styles to choose from! Before deciding on a wedding photographer, do some research on the different looks that are available. Once you’ve had a search, then you and your partner can choose the right style for you. Maybe it’s the more formal portrait style photos, or candid black and white shots. Most photographers will have a preferred style, so be sure to find someone who will suit what you are looking for.
Do Your Research…
A good place to start is reading reviews from previous clients. This will allow you to get a idea of what working with the photographer might be like. You want to find a photographer that you will gel with. Check out their social media platforms and work from previous weddings as well. The more research you can do, the better!
Have A Chat…
Once you’ve narrowed down your short list of potential photographers, you can start organising meetings with them. Be prepared to talk about the venue, wedding style and your vision for the photos. This will also give you the chance to see more of their work. Bring along a list of the questions you wish to ask, and don’t be afraid to be honest with them. At the end of the day, you have to make sure you are happy with your choice.
The Personal Touch…
Don’t underestimate how important it is for you to get along and feel comfortable with your chosen photographer. They will be shadowing your every move for the entire day and capturing some of your most intimate and special moments. They will also be interacting with guests, and need to be able to capture everyone in a relaxed and non-intrusive manner. The more comfortable you and your partner are with the photographer, the better the photos will turn out.
Compare The Pair…
Like with every wedding vendor, there are a wide range of price points and features included in each different package. When interviewing candidates, ask for a general price range based on a standard shooting fee and album package. Additionally, find out how many hours of coverage are included in the base price, as ideally you’ll want the photographer there for the full day. As a note, it is generally better to pay for extra coverage in case anything runs over time so that you avoid missing any significant moments.
The Finer Print…
Most contracts will detail that the photographer owns the rights to the photos which means that your personal photos could be used in any promotional or highlight reels. There may be more terms and conditions stated in your contract, so be sure to read the finer print. It’s also important to know if there are any limitations on how you can use your photos after the big day.
Final Details…
It will usually take at least a month to get all those photos back from the photographer. This is generally because of the sheer volume of photos taken on the day and the additional time it takes to edit images. There are a few questions you should ask regarding the post-production phase; How many images should I expect? High or low resolution? Will the proofs I see be the retouched versions, or does that happen after I select the pictures I want?
The Crew…
By the time the big day arrives, you should hopefully have a good and friendly relationship with your photographer. In addition to this, they should understand what you are wanting from them on the day. It is recommended that you have a final chat before to day to make sure everything is clarified. Also give a heads up of any familial or friendship dynamics which they should look out for; divorced parents, elderly family members who need to remain seated in any portraits or specific moments you want captured.
Now that you have all of the information, it’s time to pick your wedding photographer! Head over to our supplier directory to see some of the amazing options.