For months you’ve been meticulously planning all the details of your wedding day. From picking the color of the bridesmaids’ dresses to choosing just the right flowers for your bouquet, it all comes together on the day of the big event. That’s when the photographer is there to document it all, making sure you have lasting memories of the beautiful event you helped orchestrate.
It’s important to take your time and do your research before choosing a wedding photographer not only because you want to have beautiful pictures, but also because you need to have a good relationship with the person taking the photos. Unlike the decisions on the food served or the shoes you wear, the photographer is a human being you’ll be interacting with in some very personal, life-changing moments. Making sure it’s someone that you are able to communicate with and feel comfortable around is vitally important.
From experience coordinating weddings and other events at Legacy Stables and Events, we’ve compiled a list of things to consider when choosing a wedding photographer to help make this important decision a little less stressful.
Set a Budget. Before you start looking for a photographer, it’s important to know how much you are able and willing to spend. Then look closely at the different packages offered by each photographer. Some photographers might offer a lot of prints, while others will charge the same amount for fewer prints but more hours the day of the wedding.
Choose a Style. There are a lot of different styles of wedding pictures, from the traditional formal set ups to the more candid or journalistic approach. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the different styles and have an idea of what appeals to you before reaching out to a photographer.
Do your Research. You’ve probably seen plenty of other people’s wedding pictures posted on Facebook and Instagram. That’s a good first place to start the research process. Talk to friends and family members whose pictures you’ve seen and liked or who have recently had opportunities to hire photographers and get their recommendations. Then start looking at those photographers’ websites and blogs. Don’t just skim over the home page and highlights gallery, make sure to look deep into their posts. Find examples of photos from receptions, pre-wedding preparations, and of the wedding party, in addition to staged bridal portraits. Keep in mind during the staged portraits the photographer has time to pose the bride and make sure hair, makeup and dress are all just right. It’s the other, more rushed shots that show the photographer’s ability to take good pictures under pressure.
Schedule a Meeting. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, take time to meet with the photographer. It’s important to let them know what you’re looking for, and get an idea of their packages and deals. But also use that meeting to get an idea of how you get along and work together. Having a good rapport will help things go much more smoothly the day of the wedding.
Go to the meeting prepared to learn as much as you can. Here are a few questions to help guide your conversation:
- How many weddings have you photographed?
- Do you offer second shooters or videography?
- What is included in your wedding package? For example, does it come with an engagement session? How many hours on the day of the wedding are included? What is the cost if things run over? Does the package include an album? How many prints?
- What is the expected turnaround time after the wedding?
As you’re planning your big event, keep Legacy Stables and Events in mind to help make your wedding the day you’ve always dreamed about. We can provide assistance with planning every aspect of the event, including recommendations for photographers in the area.
