How To Pick Your Wedding Photographer
First of all, Congrats!! So happy for you! Now that you are engaged, there is so much you have to do right? Including getting a photographer to capture all those special moments on your big day!
So how do you pick the perfect photographer for you? What questions should you be asking? And what should you expect from your photographer?
First of all, there are a ton of photographers out there. How do you know who is right for you? I would encourage you to look online to see the style of photography that you prefer! As photographers, we all have different styles. Some photographers prefer moody pictures that are darker. Whilst others prefer light and airy. Figure out what you like. Do you like warm tones? Bright colors? Find the style that you would want for your pictures.
Once you have a style in mind, figure out your budget. Then begin your search. As you look at different photographers, look to see if their style matches what you are wanting. If the prices are within your range, check out the reviews. What do their past clients have to say? If everything looks good at this point, I would reach out to the photographer.
Talk to them about your vision. What are you hoping for? Your initial conversation may be covering the basics. Are they available on your wedding date? Are they within your budget? Once you have the initial details covered, here are some questions you may want to ask?
Does your wedding package include an engagement session?
How many images are included? And how many hours are covered?
Will you receive any prints?
I would ask about their refund policy as well. God forbid, if you were to get ill or had to reschedule, do they accept refunds? If so, would this include a deposit? I think with COVID still very much in the air, it is important to know this.
Do you accept payment in installments?
How many other weddings will you be photographing that weekend?
How long have you been shooting weddings? How many weddings have you photographed?
Have you ever shot a wedding at our ceremony and reception venues? If not, do you plan to check the venues out in advance?
How would you describe your working style? Do you prefer to blend into the background to capture candid moments, or do you like to be more visible and take charge to choreograph images?
Do you carry backup equipment?
I would also ask them about why they got into photography? What is their favorite thing about photography? I think this will help you get to know them better as a person. Building a connection with your photographer is important.
Your photographer should be helpful, and excited to work with you. They should be professional and timely. They should be able to tell you what to expect and when. Congratulations again! I hope this information is helpful and I wish you luck in finding “the one.”
xo,
Esther Kabwe Photographer
