Even though I've a videographer, I've spoken to way too many couples unhappy with their photos. Haven worked with many photographers, I've realized some do's and don'ts when it comes to hiring one. Many brides have told me "I loved your video but I was so disappointing with my photographer" Well, because of that I've been inspired to write this short guide to choosing the right photographer for you!
1.) First thing’s first, do your research.
No two photographers are the same. Know which style you are looking for. Are you
a bride/groom who favor a traditional style? Are you looking for a more modern
approach? Do you want something completely different from what’s already out
there? A good photographer should know how to do all of these styles, and then
some.
2.) Styles
Some more specifics on the different types of styles.
- Photo Journalism: This style is specifically candid and doesn’t usually require
the photographer to pose or control where the subjects are. A good photo
journalist will be able to capture the right emotion and statement in the
moment and tell a good story at the same time.
- Traditional: We all know the classic style of wedding photography. It’s similar
to what our parents and their parents had done, and usually contain standard
elements from a specific shot list
- Illustrative: Sort of a combination of different styles, the photographer usually
uses the environment to help tell the story, such as the beach, a house, a garden,
and uses the couple or the subjects to interact rather than just pose.
- Fine Art: A more dramatic style, where the photographer has almost complete
control of what’s going on, to create a more of a stunning emotion provoking
scene to tell what’s going on, usually very specific about facial expressions,
placement of hands and lighting.
3.) Budget
You want to stay within your budget, but also, if the price is too good to be true then
it probably is. Stick with the professionals who do this full time and have experience
rather than a “weekend warrior” who does it as a side gig.
4.) Finding the right person
Personality is important when it comes to the right photographer. There is allot of
interacting between you, them and your guests. It’s usually better to choose
someone outgoing, with great people skills, and who knows how to work a crowed.
I’ve seen some photographers who do wonderful work, but did not get hired due to
their personality. It all depends on the couple and who they get along with.
5.) Types of companies
Going through referrals and using people friends and family have used is always
great! But if you’re going to do a Google search, please go passed the first results
and give the later ones listed a chance. The first ones listed are pretty much
ALWAYS national companies that are more about quantity over quality, although
sometimes these can be good options when working on a very small budget. Also, I
always advise my clients to stay away from “One stop shop” Venue, Photography,
Video, DJ, Limo’s is never a good option. Although tempting due to lower prices, you
never really know who you’re getting!
6.) The Packages
Always ask specifics about the packages and read the fine print. How many hours
do you have your photographer? How many proofs do you get? Do they give you
everything on DVD or flash drive? What kind of editing and touching up does your
package come with? Allot of photographers are doing the “Shoot and burn”
approach, which is basically shooting the wedding and putting everything straight
online or on physical media and calling it a day. This option is always much cheaper
then purchasing an album.
7.) Do I really need a second photographer?
The good thing about a second photographer is that, you are covered. With a second
photographer you get a different angle, more pictures, different style, and other
options to choose through. Also, in the unlikely event your photographer can’t make
it to your wedding due to an emergency, you have a backup.
Thanks for reading, and I will be doing another one like this on of course what I do,
which is wedding cinematography.
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