Where do you start when looking for a wedding photographer?
He popped the question, you said yes, a date has been set and now you get to plan a wedding! Choosing the right wedding photographer for your big day is so important! Why? Because when the cake has all been eaten and the last dance has been danced – what remains are the photos! You want someone who can document each and every detail you painstakingly planned, capture the relationships of family and friends, and most importantly tell your story of love and celebration! So how do you find them? Here are a couple of ways to be sure you hire the right wedding photographer for you!
Think about your style
When you look around your home is it traditional or modern? When you look at a magazine are you attracted to editorial style photos or lifestyle images? When you find yourself scrolling through Pinterest are you attracted to pictures that have a dark and moody quality or a light and airy quality? Find a photographer whose images FEEL like you. I love all things light and bright and my home, my clothing choices and yes, even my photography reflect that!
Consider your budget
Whether you are shopping for a pair of shoes or the person that captures your wedding day considering your budget is an important part of shopping! You don’t want to do all the work of finding the right person and then find out they are just not in your budget. Set a range and find someone that meets those needs.
Ask questions, but only ones that matter to you
Do you care where your photographer went to school? When you ask what kind of equipment and lenses they shoot with do you even understand the answer? Instead, ask what working them is like? Ask when you will get your photos, how you will get your photos? Ask if you can see images from other weddings that are not on their website.
Think about your personalities
Your wedding day will be one of the most memorable days of your life – it will have highs and lows and start early and go late…and your wedding photographer is going to be by your side pretty much the entire time. Make sure that person is someone you like having around. Meet in person BEFORE you sign on with a photographer whenever possible!
Lastly – use your instincts
We have all gone on first dates or a job interview and had a gut feeling. The same is true when hiring a photographer. Compare websites, speak with a few people, maybe meet a couple … you’ll know when you are excited to check the important task of “finding a wedding photographer” off your to-do list!
There is only one happiness in life, to love and be loved.
