The dress, the suits, flowers, cake and a band for your upcoming wedding has been organised. But what about photographs that will be an eternal memory of your wedding day? Every couple’s wedding day photos should be a beautiful and timeless account of one of the most important days of their lives. Photographs should help every bride and groom re-live the romance and excitement all over again so a wedding photographer is recommended.

It can be a daunting process for many couples to choose a photographer. However, these five top tips will help make your decision easier.

The Wedding Photographer’s Image quality/style

When looking through a photographer’s portfolio, the quality of their images should be the first consideration. A good photographer should offer a variety of photography styles to their clients. Their photography should capture the personalities of the bride and groom and the love they both share. Their photography should also showcase the happiness and fun of everyone attending the wedding. Make sure you understand the style you want your wedding photography to be. The photographer needs to be able to provide this style in their portfolio as well.

If you’re interested in a particular photographer, try asking to have a look at all their images. Asking the photographer helps you check the quality of their photography is consistent. It is what you’re looking for in your wedding photography.

It is important to remember that photographers have different photography and editing techniques. If their images look heavily edited, then chances are this will be a common trend in their photography portfolio. Heavily edited images can be an attempt to cover up poor quality, edit mistakes or they are a creative photographer.

Most importantly, the photography style should represent both of you as a couple. So whether you are looking for a relaxed and informal photography style or going for a more creative or modern style, doing your research is recommended.

Photographer’s Personality

When you hire a wedding photographer, your trust and faith in them are necessary to get the best shots. It is crucial that both of you feel comfortable and relaxed with your photographer. Being comfortable with the photographer helps create the best looking and natural photographs of you as a couple. A genuine smile is impossible to fake.

Remember, choose your photographer wisely and ensure you meet with your photographer a couple of times before confirming your booking. First impressions are crucial and getting a mutual understanding between you and the photographer, your photos will look better and your ideas will flow better. If you feel uncomfortable around your photographer, this will become very noticeable in your wedding photos.

Consider your guests that are attending as well. If your wedding photographer is friendly and down to earth, the guests will feel more comfortable. As a result, this allows the photographer to blend in with the guests and capture the day as it naturally unfolds rather than relying on forcing people to get their photos taken.

Value for money/cost

The photographer’s cost can often be a for many brides and grooms. While the cost is an undoubtedly vital element, it should not be the main deciding factor for your photographer choice. High-end photographer fees don’t always guarantee the highest quality photos. However, reasonable pricing does not mean the quality of the wedding photographs would be poor.

Every photographer should be open about their pricing structures, and in turn, you should be clear on your intended budget. But, of course, to avoid wasting any time, a clear discussion about your needs and your budget will resolve any issues.

Your photographer should offer a variety of flexible pricing and service packages to suit your needs. Every couple will have different needs and expectations for their photography. As a result, it is vital that your photographer can tailor one of their packages to suit your specific needs.

It’s always worth asking about any hidden extras that are available. For example, some photographers can charge an additional fee for additional services. This includes; post-editing, VAT, creating artwork for an album or even any food and travel expenses. Therefore, before entering into any contractual agreement, you should always ensure that every detail is in the quote.

Wedding Photographer’s Experience

Every photographer will have a different experience, and this experience will play a large part in how the day is organised. For example, many photographers will often have to be the coordinator, photographer, master of ceremonies and children’s entertainer. However, taking photos is just a tiny part of being a wedding photographer. If the photographer doesn’t have the necessary experience and perform under constant pressure, the photographer can miss those important moments.

If possible, you should choose a wedding photographer who has already worked at your chosen wedding venue previously as they may have more advice on potential photograph opportunities. This isn’t essential, but your photographer must show a willingness to meet at the venue regularly.

The photographer going to the venue with you allows you to explore potential photo locations and opportunities and the schedule for the day. It is run through the day’s structure also a good opportunity for the photographer to meet the venue proprietor/wedding coordinator. Meeting the proprietor helps ensure everyone is clear on the entire day’s event schedule.

You can also ask how many weddings they have covered in their career. While this doesn’t necessarily mean the photographers are less capable if they have only been in business for a short time. A long time in business can help give you a good idea of their experience. 

Recommendations/Word of Mouth

Many photographers’ bookings come through recommendations from word of mouth, reviews and recommendations. Reading online reviews can be a good indicator of the quality of the service and work provided by the photographer. Good reviews mean that chances are, you would go with that photographer. However, this should not be the main reason for your choice but should be the final jigsaw piece.

It would be a good idea to speak to your friends about their experiences with their wedding photographer if possible. A good photographer will provide a testimonial from previous clients upon request. Do your research on photographers’ reviews and testimonials. It would also be a good idea to use tips and advice from those who have organised their weddings.

For more of our blogs, visit here.