Some Tips to help You Choose Your Wedding Photographer
Have you any idea what style of wedding photography you are looking for?
Prior to researching potential wedding photographer, it’s a good idea to first of all determine the style of photography you would like for your wedding, as that will help you to decide what type of photographer you’ll want to photograph your wedding.
Do you prefer a traditional approach, giving you mainly posed images? Or is a candid, documentary style more to your liking, where the images are taken without the knowledge of the subject? ? You may also like a glamour style aproach or a fine art style or even a mixture of styles.
Have you an idea of the level of service you would like from your photographer?
Maybe you only require photographs of your ceremony so around 4 hours of photography may be sufficient for you. Or you may want photography to commence from early in the day as the bride gets ready to early or late evening.
How many images do you think you will require from your day?
Some photographers may have a set amount within their packages and provide them on CD or memory stick. I personally prefer to offer albums, framed images and prints as I believe photography should be seen and not stored on electronic devices with the risks that entails.
How would you like your images presented?
Wouild you like an album and maybe albums for parents? Would you like to offer prints for guests? Framed images to hang on the wall are a great reminder of your day and are there for all to see. Coffee table books are another great way top present your wedding photography. Much quicker than havint to fire up a laptop or PC. You may prefer a mixture of methods along with low resolution files to display on you social media profiles.
Determine your wedding photography budget
Wedding photography prices can vary widely so it can be tough comparing several photographers. Have a look at photographers whos styles you like and get an idea of costs. You can then determine how much to lay aside for the type of photography you would like. Don’t be tempted by low costs as you get what you pay for and professional full time photographers with plenty of experience in the wedding and portrait industry will charge accordingly. These photographers will be well insured and will likely be a member of a professional body such as The Guild of Photographers, BIPP, MPA or SWPP where they are continually training, attending seminars and keeping up with industry standards. you will find lists of excellent photographers on the industry websites.
Research your shortlisted photographers
Ask people you know and make enquiries with industry partners such as bridal shops you visit, hotels, car providers and the like. Also browse bridal websites such as the Scottish Wedding Directory which also has a forum you can join and talk to other couples. Set up meetings with your chosen photographers to see samples of work and the products they provide. It’s also important to have a rapport with your photographer so a meeting will give you an idea as to whether or not you can work with a certain person. Discuss exactly what you want from your photographer and any special requirements you need.
Quick tips
- Good professional photographers get booked rapidly so make sure you choose and book your photographer at least a year in advance.
- Perusing photographer websites is a good quick way to find the shooting style of a photographer so you can quickly build a shortlist.
- You get what you pay forso make sure you do your homework properly and don’t skimp on your budget. Yo’ll be looking at your photographs for a long time.
- Make sure you have time to go through the wedding photography contract and discuss anything you are unsure about with the photographer.
- Don’t feel under pressure to sign up to a photographer. Good professionals will help you make the correct decision and you will be comfortable doing so.
- This is an important decision so don’t rush it.
- Make sure your photographer knows about any specific requirements and that they are documented.
- Take notes when interviewing your shortlisted photographers as this will help you make an informed decision.
- Ensure you know the final total cost before signing a contract and that there are no hidden surprises. You shouldn’t have any issues with seasoned professionals.
- Make sure the photographer is paid on time according to the contract.
