How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Photographer

Hey there, lovebirds! 💕 Planning a wedding can be a whirlwind, and finding the perfect photographer to capture your big day is a crucial part of the journey. But don’t stress – we’re here to help you make this choice a breeze! Let’s dive into how you can find the wedding photographer of your dreams, and why a husband-and-wife team might just be the ultimate duo you didn’t know you needed!📸✨

Figure Out Your Style

First things first, what kind of photos make your heart skip a beat? Wedding photography styles come in many flavors, so let’s break it down:

• Traditional: Think classic, posed shots that even your grandma will love.
• Photojournalistic: Candid, real moments – like something straight out of a rom-com. Little to no posing or direction.
• Fine Art: Artsy and dramatic, perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots & usually associated with film.
• Lifestyle: A mix of posed and candid, telling the story of your day in the most authentic way.

Nailing down your style helps you find a photographer who can make your vision come to life…

Set Your Budget

We all know weddings can be pricey. Setting a budget for your photographer will help you focus on options within your range. Remember, you often get what you pay for, so consider this an investment in your memories…Here’s a few suggestions:

1. Determine Your Overall Wedding Budget First
2. Understand What Influences Cost: Several factors can affect the price of wedding photography, including:
   • Experience and Reputation: Highly experienced photographers with a strong portfolio and excellent reviews will often charge more.
   • Location: Photographers in metropolitan areas may charge more than those in rural areas due to higher living and operating costs.
   • Length of Coverage: The number of hours you need the photographer to be present can significantly impact the price. Full-day coverage from getting ready in the morning to the last dance at night will cost more than a shorter wedding day.
   • Packages and Deliverables: Consider what’s included in the packages – albums, prints, digital files, engagement shoots, and post-production edits can all add to the cost.
3. Balancing Quality and Cost: While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that you often get what you pay for. A more affordable photographer might be less experienced or use lower-quality equipment. Consider this an investment in your memories – skimping on photography might lead to disappointment if the photos don’t meet your expectations.
4. Flexibility and Negotiation: If you find a photographer you love who is slightly out of your budget, don’t be afraid to ask if they offer a payment plan! (Like we do!)
5. Hidden Costs: Be aware of potential hidden costs, such as travel fees for photographers coming from out of town, overtime charges if the wedding runs late, or extra costs for additional photographers or assistants.
6. Value Over Price: Focus on the value rather than just the price. Consider what you’re getting for your money in terms of the photographer’s style, quality, experience, and the emotional connection you feel towards their work. Beautiful, high-quality photos are priceless when it comes to preserving the memories of your special day.

Do Your Homework

Time to put on your detective hat! 🔍 Start by browsing photographers in your area. Check out their portfolios online – it’s like window shopping but for wedding photos. Reviews and testimonials are your best friends here. Websites like The Knot, WeddingWire, and Yelp have tons of feedback from real couples.

Meet and Greet

Got a shortlist of perspective photographers? Great! Now, schedule some face-to-face or video call interviews. This is your chance to get to know them and see if you click. Ask them questions like:

• What’s your photography style?
• Can we see full galleries from recent weddings?
• How do you handle unexpected issues, like rain or a runaway flower girl?
• What packages do you offer, and what’s included?
• How many hours of coverage do we get?
• What’s your backup plan if something goes wrong?

Check Out Full Albums

A photographer’s highlights reel is like their greatest hits album – it’s all the best stuff. But you want to see the whole concert! Looking through full wedding albums will give you a better idea of their consistency and how they handle different parts of the day. Don’t be afraid to dive deep into their work and check that you’re seeing quality photos from every part of the day.

Experience Matters

Just like you wouldn’t want a rookie pilot flying your plane, you want a seasoned pro for your wedding. Experienced photographers know how to handle the chaos of a wedding day and capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments perfectly.

Personality Check

Your photographer will be by your side all day, so it’s important that you like them! A friendly, approachable photographer can make everyone feel comfortable, leading to more natural and joyous photos.  Do they pass the vibe check?

Post-Production Perks

Editing can make a huge difference in your photos. Discuss their editing style and timeline. Find out how many photos you’ll receive, whether they offer retouching, and how long you’ll be waiting for your full + final gallery.

Read the Fine Print

Before you sign anything, make sure to read the contract carefully. It should cover all the details you discussed: date, hours of coverage, what you get, and payment terms. Look out for cancellation policies and any extra fees…and we recommend doing this for every single vendor!! Check allll those little details!

Go With Your Gut

At the end of the day, trust your instincts. Choose a photographer who feels right for you and understands your vision. Your comfort and confidence in them will make for a smoother and more enjoyable experience.  You’ll know when you’ve met your dream team!!

BONUS: Why a Husband and Wife Team?

Ever thought about hiring a husband and wife photography team? They’re like the Jay-Z and Beyoncé of wedding photography! 🎤👑 Here’s why they rock:

• Double Coverage: Two photographers mean more angles and moments captured.
• Seamless Coordination: They have a natural chemistry that ensures everything runs smoothly.
• Complementary Skills: Often, they bring different strengths to the table, giving you a more well-rounded collection of photos.

Finding the perfect wedding photographer is a big task, but with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a fantastic choice. Remember, your wedding photos will be cherished forever, so take your time and choose a photographer who will capture your day beautifully.

Now go out there and find the photographer who will make your wedding look straight out of a fairy tale! 🥂✨📸💕🫶🏼

 

PS — we are currently accepting a limited number of 2024 + 2025 weddings!! We would love to work with you!! Check out the wedding collection info here!