Congratulations on your engagement! Now that the excitement is settling in, it's time to tackle another important aspect of your wedding journey – finding the perfect photographer to capture those magical moments. Here are my top tips to help you navigate the process without breaking a sweat.
Start Early, Stay Calm
The Early Bird Catches the Photographer
Begin your search as soon as possible. Wedding photographers are in demand and often get booked up years in advance, so give yourself the luxury of time to explore options and find someone whose work, approach, and personality resonates with your vision.
Define Your Style
Picture Your Perfect Day
Take a moment to imagine your dream wedding album. Do you prefer classic, timeless shots, or are you more inclined towards a modern, documentary-style candid approach? Knowing your style will guide you in selecting a photographer whose portfolio aligns with your aesthetic.
Set a Realistic Budget
Balancing Act
Weddings can be expensive, but photography is an investment in memories that will last a lifetime. Set a realistic budget that reflects your priorities. Don't forget to consider packages that might include engagement sessions, additional coverage/photographers, or products to make your budget go further.
Connect on a Personal Level
It's More Than Just Business
Your photographer will be with you throughout one of the most intimate days of your life, so it’s really important to ensure that you vibe well with them. Schedule a meeting or a video call to discuss your expectations, ask questions, and get to know the person behind the lens.
If you want a list of questions to ask your potential photographer when you do chat, check out another of my blogs - 8 Essential Questions For Your Wedding Photographer
Review Full Wedding Albums
Beyond the Highlight Reel
Don't be fooled by stunning highlight reels. Ask to see full wedding galleries/albums to get a sense of a photographer's consistency and storytelling abilities. This will help manage your expectations and ensure you love every moment captured.
Read Reviews and Ask for References
Word of Mouth Matters
Check online reviews and ask for references from past clients. A good photographer will have a trail of happy couples singing their praises. Hearing about real experiences can provide valuable insights into their professionalism, work ethic, and personality.
Be Clear About Expectations
Communicate, Communicate, Communicate
Not everyone, at least in my experience, will have a clear vision or expectations of their wedding photography - and that’s completely normal and totally cool - I mean after all, that’s a big part of why you are hiring us, right?
But if you do have a vision then definitely clearly communicate your expectations, preferences, and any must-have shots. A good photographer will appreciate your input, be collaborative, and work to exceed your expectations.
In Conclusion
Finding the right wedding photographer may seem daunting, but with a bit of early planning and hopefully not a little better understanding of the process, you should be well on your way to booking someone who will capture your special day in a way that reflects your vibe.
Ready to move forward with your photography journey now? Let’s chat and see if we would be a good fit to work together.
Happy planning!
