Choosing a wedding photographer ranks among the most important of your wedding day decisions. Your photos last well beyond your wedding day, and serve as a lasting keepsake. Therefore, get the best photographer you can afford.
First, do your research. Get recommendations from your friends, relatives and wedding fairs. Book your photographer early, as good ones fill their schedules months or even years in advance. Experienced photographers are well worth the investment. They help you and your guests feel comfortable while capturing the magic of your day in exactly the way you envisioned. Be sure to ask the following questions when interviewing candidate photographers.
QUESTIONS FOR YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER
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Who will be doing the photography the day of the wedding? Do you have an assistant?
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Are you a member of a professional association? What kind of training did you receive?
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May I see samples of your work? Can I see an entire wedding album?
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What type of film/digital medium do you use?
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Are you familiar with my wedding site? Have you photographed a wedding at my location before?
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What do you charge? Are you willing to work within my budget?
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What suggestions do you have, given my needs, budget, location?
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What is your cancellation policy and payment schedule?
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Do you guarantee your work? (Be sure the guarantee is in the contract.)
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When will the photographs be ready? Do we get to keep the proofs or CD copy?
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What time will you begin photographing and how long will you stay?
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How would you describe your style? Candid, formal, photojournalism, some of each?
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Can you work from a wedding photography checklist that we provide?
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What kinds of albums do you use and how do you arrange the photos?
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What types of wedding packages do you offer and what do they cost?
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Do you have backup equipment?
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How long do you keep the negatives/digital copies and will you sell them to me?
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Do you have a back-up plan in case you can't make it to our wedding?
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Will you need to visit the location before the wedding?
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How long have you been photographing weddings and is this your full-time job?
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How long does it take to produce the final wedding album?
HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
By considering these factors and taking the time to research and choose your wedding photographer carefully, you can be confident that you will have beautiful and timeless images to remember your special day for years to come. Here are some tips to help you find the right photographer for you:
- Determine your style: Before you start your search, take some time to consider what style of photography you prefer. Do you want traditional posed shots, a photojournalistic approach, or something in between?
- Research your options: Look for photographers whose work you admire, and read online reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Ask for recommendations from friends and family, and consider reaching out to photographers whose work you admire.
- Check their portfolio: Take a look at each photographer's portfolio to get a sense of their style, approach, and the types of weddings they have shot. Pay close attention to the quality of the images and the lighting, as these are important indicators of the photographer's skill and experience.
- Schedule a meeting: Once you have narrowed down your options, schedule a meeting with each photographer to discuss your vision and expectations for the day. This will also give you an opportunity to see their personality and work style in person.
- Consider their personality: You'll be spending a significant amount of time with your wedding photographer on your big day, so it's important to choose someone whose personality you get along with. You want to ensure that you feel comfortable and relaxed around your photographer.
- Ask about their experience: Make sure to ask each photographer about their experience shooting weddings, including the number of weddings they have photographed and what types of weddings they specialize in.
- Review their contract and pricing: Before you make a final decision, be sure to review each photographer's contract and pricing to ensure that everything is clear and there are no hidden fees.
- Trust your instincts: Finally, trust your instincts. Choose the photographer whose work and personality resonate with you the most, and who you feel confident will capture your special day in the way that you envision.
HOW TO SAVE MONEY ON YOUR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY
Wedding photography can be one of the most expensive aspects of a wedding, but there are several ways to save money while still capturing beautiful memories of your big day:
- Hire an amateur or emerging photographer: Consider hiring a less experienced photographer who may be willing to offer a lower rate in exchange for building their portfolio.
- Have a smaller wedding party: Consider having a smaller wedding party and only hiring a photographer for the ceremony and a few key moments throughout the day.
- Book your photographer off-peak: Booking your photographer during the off-peak season or on a weekday can help you save money as demand and rates are typically lower.
- Take advantage of digital technology: Many couples are opting for digital wedding albums, which can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional printed albums.
- Limit the number of formal portraits: Consider limiting the number of formal portraits you take and instead focus on capturing candid and spontaneous moments throughout the day.
- Have a photography timeline: Having a well-planned photography timeline can help you make the most of your photography budget by ensuring that the photographer is only present for the key moments you want captured.
- Ask for discounts: Don't be afraid to ask your photographer for discounts or special offers. Many photographers are willing to work with their clients to create a package that fits within their budget.
- Hire a photographer for a shorter period of time: Consider hiring a photographer for a shorter period of time, such as for just the ceremony or for a portion of the reception.
Remember, the most important thing is to find a photographer whose style you love and who you feel comfortable working with. By prioritizing the elements that are most important to you and being open to compromise on the rest, you can ensure that you get the wedding photography you want while staying within your photography budget.
WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY TRENDS
Wedding photography is a crucial aspect of capturing memories that last a lifetime. With the evolution of technology and the rise of social media, wedding photography has become more creative, dynamic, and personalized. From candid shots to traditional posed portraits, the choices are endless when it comes to capturing your special day.
With the new year in full swing, it's time to take a look at the top wedding photography trends that will be dominating the scene in the coming months. This article will showcase the latest and greatest styles, techniques, and tools that are sure to make your wedding photos stand out and be cherished for years to come. Get ready to be inspired and make your wedding photography a beautiful reflection of your love story.
Here are some of the top wedding photography trends:
- Documentary-Style Photography: Documentary-style photography, which captures candid moments and real emotions, is expected to be a popular choice.
- Natural Light: Natural light, whether in outdoor settings or using large windows or skylights, is expected to be a big trend in wedding photography this year, adding a soft and romantic feel to the images.
- Creative Portraits: Couples are expected to opt for creative portrait sessions, either in the studio or on location, incorporating unique backdrops, poses, and props.
- Adventure Photography: Adventure photography, such as hiking to a scenic overlook or taking a boat out on the water allows for unique and memorable images.
- Cinematic Video: Cinematic video, either in the form of a traditional wedding film or a series of short clips captures the entire wedding experience and preserves it for years to come.
- Drone Photography: Drone photography, which offers a unique aerial perspective adds a dramatic and memorable touch to the images.
- Post-Processing: Creative post-processing techniques, such as black and white conversions or moody, film-inspired edits, allow the photographer to add personal touches to the final images.
FREE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY CHECKLIST
This free printable wedding photography checklist will help you decide what pictures you want to have your photographer capture.