Once you’ve said ‘Yes’, and have set the date, it’s time to prepare! Most couples set realistic dates that leave plenty of time to get everything organised in advance. There’s a lot to take care of – from selecting a venue, caterers, décor, to table settings, placeholders, and music.
What many people forget is that it’s necessary to choose an excellent wedding photographer. Since your big day is a whirlwind of things to do and people to meet, there are chances you may miss out on important moments. Wedding photographers help capture the essence of your union with your partner, and help build everlasting memories.
Selecting an excellent wedding photographer needs careful consideration. There are skills to check, experience, past events, and so on that can help you make a wise decision.
Let us offer you some advice for choosing the right wedding photographer for your big day.
Get Inspired…
Before shortlisting photographers, always take inspiration from others. Speak to your friends and loved ones about how they decided on a photographer for their weddings and special occasions. Depending on the style of photos you want, it will be easy to finalise. There are photographers like Paul David Smith who are excellent at portrait, vintage, black and white, and artistic wedding photographs, and who capture the beauty of your special day.
While making a selection, it is best to consider different styles and types of photographs. Some couples prefer nature-inspired, while some like creative photography. You should always select what seems most natural to you both. It is best to make a selection or an online mood board of the type of photography you both like, so it becomes quicker to show the photographer which styles you prefer for your big day.
Interview Several Photographers…
You should not be in a hurry to finalise the photographer. Leave ample time between the interview process and the wedding date, and ensure that you speak to each of the shortlisted photographers. Before setting up the meetings (either online or physically), it is best to ask the photographers to send you links to their websites and portfolios. Let them know that you only want to see wedding photography and not other functions like communions, graduations, and bar mitzvahs.
During the meeting or interview, it is a good idea to show up prepared with all the questions you and your partner may have. This time is also when you should ask how many photographers will be present and who exactly will be doing the main photoshoot of both partners and their families. Since many photographers work in teams, you should try to meet them too.
Check Albums and Photo Shoots…
Most photographers will send you their portfolios beforehand. While this is an excellent way to understand style and theme, you should also check wedding albums and photographs from the weddings of their clients. Most photographers will only show you their best shots and edits to impress you and your partner. The problem with this practice is that you will not get to see all the other photos that they have shot. Once you see full album photos, some portrait modes, family photos, candid shots, and more, you will get a better idea of what you would like for your wedding.
If you like all the work that the photographer and the team have done, you’re on the right track. If this happens, you should ask for previous work that is similar to your wedding theme. For example, if you have an evening wedding with an outdoor reception, or the wedding is outdoor during the day, or a beach wedding. Once you have a good idea about how the photos will look, you can quickly finalise the remaining details.
Finalise the Fees…
Most photographers have packages that you can avail. However, in case there are specifics like a pre-wedding photoshoot, portrait shots, nature themes, and more, the rates may change. Some photographers also charge extra for more than a few special edits to photographs. High resolution images may also be charged higher than normal.
Some may charge an hourly rate for the main photographer plus assistants. While you are finalising the fees, you should ask how many hours the photographers will spend at the venue. Usually, seven to eight hours is ideal to get all the perfect photos. When making a final budgeting decision, you should also include the cost of the prints and the final wedding album. If you do not want an album, ask what other services they can offer, like a carousel of images, blow ups, and more.
