On a prospective client call the other day, someone asked me the most interesting question - how do you know when you’ve come across a “good” wedding photographer?
There’s many things to keep in mind when choosing a wedding photographer, but here are some basics to keep in mind while you’re searching!
When you’re looking at their website/portfolio, how do you feel about their overall style?
Figuring out the basic look you want (whether it’s moody, bright and airy, traditional, or somewhere in between) is a big help. This is a “go with your gut” situation; if you’re immediately drawn to their work, it’s a good idea to reach out!
Ask yourself if you prefer candid images, posed, or a solid mix of both - then compare that to the portfolios you’re looking at.
Another thing to consider here is both their editing style and photographic style. The way an image is edited has a huge impact on the “feel” of it; are you looking for something darker and dramatic, something bright and sunny, or somewhere in between?
Read the reviews!
You can usually find client reviews on Google, Facebook, or on the vendor’s website. See what others have to say about their experience to get a feel for what working with them will feel like. You can also ask your planner, venue, friends or family for recommendations. If someone is raving about their experience, it’s a good sign!
Cost - most clients have a budget in mind when searching, so you’ll need to ask for the vendor’s rates (I would suggest leaving some wiggle room - the photos from your wedding are one of the only things you get to take home after the wedding, and are definitely an investment).
You can ask a few to get an idea for the market pricing, and ask your married friends what their costs were. For photographers, rates can vary wildly, and so can packages - this is commonly based on the vendor’s experience level and the value included in their package offerings (for example, you are likely to pay more for 12 hours versus 8). Make a list of things that are the most important to you - maybe you want an included engagement session, or printed products - and find someone who offers those to you!
Things that may affect the cost of a package are:
Time included (6, 8, 10, 12 hours are going to vary in cost)
Level of experience
Whether or not you want a second photographer
Weekend pricing vs. weekday
Travel costs
Printed products
If an engagement session or site visit is included
Elopement vs. full wedding
Add on products, like photo booths
Make a connection!
When you’ve found someone whose has a style you love and a cost that suits you, set up a call (or COVID-safe meeting) to talk further and see how you click. Your photographer is going to be spending the majority of your special day with you, and you’ll want to ensure you feel relaxed and comfortable with them! This is the perfect time to ask them important questions about how they work and other details - if you want to see a post about what to ask, let me know!
