Your big day is around the corner, and you want everything to be perfect. You have to capture the perfect wedding photos to remember your special day. You don’t want to miss anything or leave anything to chance. How do you choose the perfect wedding photographer for your style? Here’s how, according to FocusPhotography.
Understand Your Style
You’ll find the perfect wedding photographer when you understand what you want or your style. Do you want classic and timeless shots or something more modern? Perhaps you are after something unique and different.
Your wedding photographer should understand and interpret your style to capture the perfect photos. Sit down with them and discuss what you are looking for before making the final decision.
Ask for their advice; they may have great ideas you haven’t even thought of. Additionally, look at their portfolio to get an idea of their style and see if it matches yours.
Know Your Budget
Wedding photographers have different packages. Know your budget before looking for one. It narrows down your choices, making the decision-making process a lot easier. Compare prices to get an idea of how much you should be spending on a wedding photographer.
However, remember, in most cases, you get what you pay for. You might realize that the more expensive photographers have the most experience, equipment, and skills. They also offer higher quality services.
Create a List Of Questions
When meeting with potential photographers, have a list of questions to ask. It enables you to compare and see which one is the best fit. Here are some questions that you should ask:
- How long have you been a wedding photographer?
- Do you have a portfolio?
- What is your style?
- What packages do you offer?
- Is it possible to see a list of references?
By asking these questions, you’ll make an informed decision and choose the perfect photographer for your special day.
Get Referrals
If you know anyone who recently got married, ask them for referrals. They will tell you about their experience and whether or not they were happy with their wedding photographer. You can also check online reviews to get an idea of what others are saying about different photographers in your area.
Ask the photographer to refer you to their previous clients if you don’t have anyone in mind. Most have no problem giving you a list of satisfied customers you can contact.
Schedule a Consultation
After shortlisting a few photographers, it’s time to schedule consultations. You’ll meet with each photographer and get to know them better. It’s also an opportunity to ask more questions and know their personalities.
When meeting with the photographer, check whether you connect. This is important because you will be spending a lot of time together on your wedding day. Choose someone you are comfortable around and who makes you feel relaxed.
Choose an appropriate venue for the first consultation. It can be the photographer’s office to get to know them better in their environment. Just watching how they relate with the rest of their team will give you an idea of what it would be like working with them.
It’s also a good opportunity to see their work environment, equipment, and how they handle themselves. You can schedule a Skype call or video chat if you live in a different city or state. You’ll connect with the photographer without having to travel.
Focus on the important aspects during the consultation, such as their experience, style, and personality. Understand the pricing too and inclusions. If you have any doubts, don’t hesitate to ask.
The consultation is also an opportunity for the photographer to get to know you and your partner. They should understand your vision for the wedding and what you are looking for in a photographer.
Be Clear About Your Expectations
Be clear about your expectations from the start. You must be on the same page as the photographer to avoid misunderstandings later. Discuss your expectations in detail and make sure the photographer is on board. Have a vision for your wedding and share it with them.
Discuss the kind of photos you want, the number of hours you need them for, and the locations. If you have any specific requests, mention them. If you want the photographer to capture candid moments, let them know. The more information you give, the better they understand your needs.
Set Up a Test Run
To build confidence and trust, it helps to set up a test run. The photographer comes to your house, or you meet them at a specified location, and they take photos of you and your partner. It’s a great way to see how they work and whether or not you are comfortable around them.
You can even plan an engagement photoshoot to get a feel of their style. Schedule this a few months before the wedding to have enough time to make changes if needed.
Look At The Contract
Before you sign the contract, understand everything written. Read it thoroughly and ask the photographer to explain if there’s anything you’re not sure about. The contract should be clear about the price, the number of hours, photos, the delivery date, and usage rights. It should also have the photographer’s contact information and your signature. Once signed, keep a copy for your records.
Don’t Ignore Your Gut Feeling
There’s always that one photographer you connect with. They might not have the most experience or the best portfolio, but you know they are the right one for you.
Sometimes, you just have to go with your gut feeling. If you connect with the photographer personally and like their style, then they are probably the right choice.
Be Happy With Your Choice
Take your time when choosing a photographer. Meet with different photographers and get a feel of their work. When something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and move on. Also, book the photographer months in advance to avoid disappointment. The most important thing is to be happy with the choice and have amazing photos to remember your special day.