Many couples do not realise the importance of hiring a really good wedding photographer for their wedding day, treating it as somewhat of an afterthought as they spend their time finalising other important items. However, finding a competent photographer is vital, despite the temptation to look for a cheap wedding photographer; the images that they capture will remain with the couple for a lifetime, long after many memories have faded. Some unfortunate - or ill-prepared - couples find that their big day has been ruined by a poor photographer.
Choosing good wedding photographers from the saturated marketplace is no easy exercise, and requires time. Here are some tips on how to choose the perfect wedding photographer for your big day.
If you the couple is searching for a videographer as well as or instead of a photographer, the same principles detailed below apply.
Begin Looking for a Photographer in Good Time
The hunt for a good photographer could begin as early as the day following engagement. The couple should trawl the internet for photographers in their area (or the vicinity of the ceremony venue), and visit as many as possible.
The bride and groom-to-be should ensure where possible that they view samples of the photographer's work, and be sure to view a portfolio of wedding photographs. The photographer may be an expert in taking photographs of sunsets or landscapes, but it cannot be assumed that they will be competent in wedding photography - one of the most difficult branches of photography there is.
Find the Right Photography Style
Each photographer will have their own unique style, and the happy couple should search for one that captivates and interests them. A good photographer should be able to capture photographs that encapsulate the mood and emotion of the big day without resulting in a large portfolio of stiff, posed shots.
In recent times, many couples are opting for a style of photography known as 'photo-journalism', which moves away from the traditional wedding style of formal, posed shots and instead captures moments as they happen. Whatever the couple's preference, they should choose a style that they love.
Ascertain the Photographer's Experience
The couple should find out how much experience the photographer has in shooting weddings, in an effort to identify how adept they are at taking photographs without becoming a distraction to guests.
Highly experienced wedding photographers can be expensive, and so a couple who are on a tight budget may find that a less experienced photographer meets their financial boundaries. This is not a light decision to be taken, however, as these shots will be treasured decades after the wedding day, and so hiring the right photographer should be a top priority.
Compare Wedding Packages
Many wedding photographers offer a range of packages. Some will enable the photographer to remain with the couple throughout the day, from the bride's preparation to the reception; some, less expensive options will result in the photographer being present at the ceremony only.
The couple should be clear about what they are ordering, so they know what to expect on the wedding day. Some photographers will keep the negatives or originals of the photographs so that the couple have to purchase any additional photographs through them at an extra cost; some will hand over the original prints as part of the package.
Book Early and Finalise All Arrangements
Many good photographers are booked many months in advance, and so it is imperative that the couple book their preferred photographer as soon as they can. This may require a deposit; but a competent photographer will never request full payment up front.
The photographer may require a signed contract, in which case the couple should read this thoroughly to ensure that they are receiving the service they require and that there are no hidden costs. All arrangements should be confirmed in writing, with full details of the print sizes included within the package, full costs, and the duration of the photographer's presence.
Discuss Requirements with the Photographer
It is highly recommended that the bride and groom meet with the photographer before the wedding day. This is to allow them to talk through their requirements, and convey to the photographer exactly which shots they would like to see, and so on.
A face-to-face meeting is also beneficial to ensure that there are no clashes of personality which could mar the day's proceedings.
A good photographer is well worth the expense. The couple should bear in mind that their wedding day will last a few hours, but intimate and cherished memories captured through good photographs allow the special day to be relived for a lifetime.
Ben Wakeling - Lives in England with his wife and two children. Loves writing, photography, and slouching. Ben is currently posting extracts on a blog ...
