How to choose a wedding photographer.

I have written many articles but not one about weddings yet, so I thought I focus more on that now that the wedding season is coming up.

Portfolio.

There are literally millions of wedding photos out there, but does the gallery you are looking at present anything different? It is important that you like it, but also that it stimulates your mind. Do the images provoke how you would visualize your wedding day? Is the photographer creative in his/her approach; that is crucial, because what you are paying for is someone who can see your wedding as you would see it and also how your guests would see it. A photographer, like myself, must be the eyes of the day but also see things that you couldn’t see. As a friend of mine and I would always say, “What’s the angle? Where’s the story?”.

Character/Personality.

I have met many photographers from all walks of life. When you speak to photographers, do they speak with an enthusiasm that is infectious? So when they talk about your wedding day it is as important to them as it is to you. When they talk do they speak with complete authority and confidence, so much so that you feel safe knowing he will capture the best of you and frame every beautiful moment?

Package offer.

Does the photographer offer a fixed rate for everything that is included and is there flexibility in the packages he offers? If you are after albums, how are the albums produced? I personally prefer fixed rates so everyone know what they are getting; if the couple want tailor it a bit then of course there is some sensible adjustments allowed. For albums, I go with one of the best out there, Jorgensen who are based in Australia.

Experience.

Experience is important but it is almost impossible to tell by looking at most professional portfolios. The best thing to do is call them and an really quiz them for ideas, past clients, locations etc. Remember, you are asking this individual to document one of these most important days of your life; if they know what they are doing then their experience will shine through.

It’s all in the detail.

It is important that you fully understand the terms and conditions before handing over any money. There is no trading standards when it comes to Wedding Photography as they are as diverse as there are the number of brides. As an example, some photographers shoot only for a certain amount of time and are inflexible with those hours. How I choose to operate is capture the day as far much as I can after the quoted hours based on the ‘vide’ I feel about the venue, the guests and the happy couple. Typically 5-6 hours is about right.

Get written confirmation of your quote

It is one thing asking the photographer questions regarding costs although it is alarming how many times I have to remind the couples I talk to get a quote either written or emailed so they have some reference; otherwise it is just a guessing game and unprofessional.

Location, Location, Location.

There are three key factors in defining a stunning photo from the thousands of average ones that are out there; lighting, the subject and location. Make sure you ask the photographer if he is local because he may know some great locations that would make a beautiful setting for your wedding album.