Hey there, soon-to-be-married lovebirds! Worried about how to choose your wedding photographer? Planning a wedding is an exciting journey filled with countless decisions, and one of the most important ones is choosing the right photographer to capture your big day. After all, your wedding photos are going to be the timeless mementos you cherish for a lifetime. So, let’s dive into some friendly advice on how to choose the perfect wedding photographer and five essential questions to ask them.
Start Early and Do Your Homework
Choosing a wedding photographer should be one of the earliest tasks on your wedding planning checklist. Begin by researching local photographers online or asking for recommendations from friends and family. Check out their websites, social media profiles, and portfolios to get a sense of their style and expertise.
Bear in mind that many photographers get booked up long in advance, sometimes years in advance. If you find a photographer that fits your style, then reach out to them with your date and cross your fingers that they are free! Some of my couples even check free dates with me before they book their wedding!
How to choose your wedding photographer – 5 questions to ask:
Question 1: What’s Your Style?
Photographers have unique styles that range from classic and traditional to modern and artistic. Make sure the photographer’s style aligns with your vision for your wedding photos. If you’re dreaming of candid shots, ensure they excel at capturing those moments. Look at their social media, websites, even Pintrest boards to get a feel for their style and personality…read the captions, read the comments and imagine that was your wedding picture and see how it makes you feel 🙂
Question 2: Are You Available on My Wedding Date?
Seems obvious, but this is crucial! Many talented photographers get booked up months (or even years) in advance. Confirm their availability for your wedding date before you get your heart set on their work. I would even recommend this process before you confirm your venue!
Question 3: Can I See Full Wedding Galleries?
Don’t be shy about asking to see complete wedding albums they’ve shot. This will give you a more comprehensive view of their work beyond the carefully curated images on their website or social media. Look for consistency in quality throughout the entire event. Can they shoot well in all lighting conditions? Are the candids as good as the posed shots or vice versa? Most photographers will be happy to meet up before you book to show you a full gallery, it also gives you the chance to meet them and see if you gel together.
Question 4: What’s Included in Your Packages?
Photography packages can vary widely, so make sure you understand what you’re getting for your investment. Ask about the number of hours of coverage, the number of edited photos you’ll receive, and whether you’ll have printing rights to your images. Understand what you will be getting and make sure there are no nasty surprises down the line!
Question 5: How Do You Handle Unexpected Situations?
Weddings are notorious for throwing curveballs, whether it’s weather issues, equipment malfunctions, or other unforeseen circumstances. Ask the photographer how they handle these situations to ensure your peace of mind.
For example:
What happens if they get sick or something unexpected happens and they can’t attend? Do they have associate photographers or emergency cover?
What measures do they have in place to ensure the safety of your pictures? Most photographers will have dual slot memory cards so the pictures are writing to two cards at once. They will also have multiple places to back up your images afterwards.
Trust Your Gut
How to choose your wedding photographer goes beyond these questions, trust your instincts. Do you feel comfortable with the photographer? Do you think they “get” you and your vision for your wedding day? A good rapport with your photographer will help you relax and feel more natural in front of the camera.
Your wedding photographer will be with you from getting ready until the first dances so you want them to fit in with you and your family. I always tell brides that the question you should ask yourself is ‘Are you comfortable for that person to see you in your pants?!’ 😂 On wedding days I am usually the one helping brides into their dresses as everyone else has their nails done!
Check Reviews and References
Don’t forget to read reviews and ask for references from past clients. Hearing about others’ experiences can provide valuable insights into the photographer’s professionalism, personality, and the overall quality of their work. A quick google should give you the reviews you need or a snoop on their social media reviews or comments will give you an insight to their work and personality.
Final Thoughts – How to choose your wedding photographer
How to choose your wedding photographer takes some thought as choosing the perfect wedding photographer is a significant decision. However with a little research and these five essential questions in your arsenal, you’ll be well-prepared to make the right choice. Remember, your wedding photos will be the cherished memories you turn to time and time again, so invest the time and effort into finding the photographer who truly understands and captures your love story.
Happy wedding planning, and may your big day be filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments captured in stunning photographs! 💕📷
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