March 7, 2014
Finding a photographer for your wedding can be a daunting task. With so many photographers popping up all over the place, it’s easy to get discouraged. But with this fact it will make everything so simple for you: We are not all the same. Just because we all make photos does not mean we all make the same photos. We all have different packages, styles, personalities that make up our business. It’s important to find the photographer that’s right for your wedding. The Knot also has a great article to help you Find the Right Wedding Photographer. Here’s some tips I’ve put together to get you started on your journey!
Plan Your Budget
Time to talk money! Figure out how much you are planning on spending for your wedding and who is helping out. Maybe your parents are pitching in. Maybe it’s just you and your hunny paying for the big day. It’s important to sit down with everyone and get your finances in order before you start planning for anything. Once the budget’s planned, allocate an amount for photography. My couples usually spend on average between $3000-$5000 on wedding photography (including engagement shoots and albums.)
Figure Out Your Favorite Style of Photography
Photojournalistic? Traditional? Edgy? Colorful and Contrasty? There are tons of different looks to choose from. Find out what type of photography you are drawn to and what you want for your wedding day. With so many photographers, you are bound to find the one that fits the style you love. I like to describe my style as simple and real with minimal editing. Soft, sweet, and romantic; full of real moments.
Use Pinterest!
Pinterest is a great tool to figure out the style of photography you want. You’ll find tons of boards dedicated to weddings. On my Pinterest you’ll find I have boards for photography, as well as, other wedding details to help with your planning. Remember, you want your wedding to be as unique as your love so you don’t want to “copy” what you see. Photographers hate hearing, “Let’s copy this photo!” and you’ll probably be disappointed when they tell you no. Another photographer worked really hard putting that shot together and nothing is more unoriginal than stealing. We can be inspired by photos but copying is not fun or creative.
The Search Begins!
You have your budget and your style now it’s time to start looking. Search your area for local photographers. Check with the venue you’re working with to see if they have any recommendations. Chat with friends and family who are recently married to see if they liked their photographer. Scope out different websites and set up consultations with your favorites. Never book with someone you haven’t met!
Ask the Right Questions
You’re meeting with your dream photographer, now it’s time to see what they’re all about. Ask to see photos from full weddings to see how they handle a whole wedding. If they offer products, ask them if they have any samples to show you. Read the contracts they go over with you, don’t be shy to speak up if you don’t understand something. Plan out what you’d like to ask the photographer beforehand and jot down a little list of items you want to cover. We are happy to answer all your questions.
Form a Connection
You’re trusting the photographer with documenting a huge part of your life so you should at least like them! Find a photographer that actually cares about you! They should be excited about your wedding and the vision you have for it. Keep in mind, you’ll be spending the whole day with them and you want someone to feel more like a friend rather than someone you hired. I love all the couples I photograph and I’m so blessed to spend their day with them. They become friends instead of just clients. Forming a connection with your photographer is imperative and The Knot explains why, “In order to get the best photos, go with a pro who has a firm grasp of social graces but is bold enough to go out hunting for great images and who, above all, puts you at ease and doesn’t irritate you in any way.”
Trust Yourself
Once you’ve done all your research and booked the photographer that’s right for your wedding it’s time to relax. You’ve made the right choice. Pour a glass of champagne and toast to having one more thing crossed off your wedding to-do list. Yippee!
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