Wedding Photographers: How to Pick the Right One
The communication and connection with you and your photographer should click! When looking at their portfolio, perusing their website, pouring over their reviews, and then talking with the photographer in person or over the phone, it should click into place—your heart will tell you whether or not it is a good fit. Do your personalities clash or mesh? Do you feel this photographer is trustworthy? This is the team who will preserve your wedding memories, and those are once in a lifetime moments. There’s a lot of trust needed for that!
It is important to remember that you will basically be with your photographer—along with your spouse—for most of your wedding day. Your relationship with your photographer should be stellar: you like their personality and you love their work.
Ultimately when picking the best photographer for your wedding, go with your gut. In case you aren’t sure of your gut, here are specifics to consider before you sign with your photographer:
Credibility and Professionalism
1. How did you hear about them?
2. Is their website reputable and have a variety of content?
3. How are their reviews?
4. Are they well known in the area?
5. What kind of equipment do they use?
6. How many years have they been in business as a photographer?
7. Will there be open lines of communication between your photographer and other vendors? Will your photographer reach out to other professionals to finalize the timeline and other details?
8. Will they meet with you before your event?
9. Will your photographer brainstorm what to keep in mind when photographing different parts of your wedding, from getting ready, all the way to the reception?
10. Do they have backup photographers or equipment in the event they can’t make your event?
11. Are they knowledgeable of the venue and places for portraits or family photos?
12. Are they familiar with the area?
13. Do they have the capability to help you stay on time throughout the wedding planning and during your big day?
14. Will they suggest how many configurations of family photos to do to accommodate documenting this occasion but also stay on time?
Artistry
1. Is the framing of pictures thoughtful or are there branches in everyone’s faces?
2. How is the lighting? Is it balanced, and not too saturated? If they have outdoor shots, were they able to maneuver around the sunny spots, wind, and elements? Is anyone squinting or backlit?
3. How do people look? Are they posed in a natural way for wedding party photos and portraits? Do they look happy and comfortable?
4. Is there some variety, but consistency in the overall tone and style?
5. How about their detailed shots? Does their portfolio highlight the florals, décor, and specialty items that might be included in a wedding?
6. Are they open to your ideas?
7. Does their portfolio include traditional, formal, informal, and unique photographs?
Overall Vibe and Personality
1. Do you feel comfortable around them?
2. Are you free to ask questions?
3. Do you feel confident they can be calm and fun on your wedding day?
4. How will they handle your family and guests?
5. Will they be your best friend, stand by your side and read your mind if needed?
6. Will the photographer get to know you well enough to showcase you as a couple?
7. Will they remind you to breathe and enjoy your day?
Budget
1. Are they within your budget? {If not, tell them what you can afford – is there a custom collection they can offer you instead of their pre-determined collections?}
2. Does this photographer offer the coverage you want for your big day?
3. Can they travel to where your wedding or engagement session is? Will mileage be an additional fee?
4. What does their availability look like—are they already booked on your wedding day?
After processing all the moving parts of one of the most exciting days of your life, do you feel like you and your photographer click?
Feel free to contact me to brainstorm and ask questions!
Wedding Tips, Weddings Blog