We sought advice on how to choose a wedding photographer from the real experts–recently-married wedding photographers.
One of the most important problems newly engaged couples face is how to choose a wedding photographer. When it comes to selecting vendors, it’s often helpful to receive advice and suggestions from couples who have recently married to help point you to the correct direction. To help to the legwork for you, we talked to three recently-married photographers–Michelle Harris of M Harris Studios in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Cavin Elizabeth of Cavin Elizabeth Photography in San Diego, California, and Ashley Simmons of Ash Simmons Photography in Pensacola, Florida–who have a unique perspective on the whole process. They are not only photography experts, but they have direct experience of the wedding planning experience.
Get this insider tip on how to choose the perfect wedding photographer from the pros.
Make your choices.
With the number of talented photographers available, finding “the one” can be challenging, perhaps more so for photographers themselves because they’re so involved within the field. But by prioritizing your top priorities, you’ll be able to quickly narrow your options. Ashley Simmons, who got married in the month of March in Milton, Florida, chose Melissa Wilson of Melissa Wilson Photography to document her tiny wedding. “Seeing hundreds of photos from different photographers each day can be overwhelming and make finding the perfect photographer difficult,” she said. “For me, I stuck with my priorities being similar to my style, someone I could get along with, and consistent in their work. Melissa ticked all those boxes.”
Make sure you have some room to your financial budget.
When you’re thinking about how to select a wedding photographer, setting an estimate of the cost is among the first steps. It’s essential to decide on a budget you can afford on a photographer (usually couples will spend around 12 percent of their budget for videography and photography) however, if photography is a priority for you, then you might want to consider making allowances. “I had $4,000 but wanted to spend it,” says Michelle Harris, who selected Corrin Jasinski to be her photographer for weddings. “I ended having spent $4,400 and am more content than ever!”
You don’t have to become an expert in the art of photography.
While you’re thinking about what to do when choosing a wedding photographer it’s important to learn about different techniques of photography. Here’s a tip from the professionals: If you’re an expert in documentary as opposed to. traditional portraiture, it’s okay–all that matters is that you like the photographer’s work , and visualize yourself in their pictures. When it came to choosing Melissa Wilson for her wedding, Ash Simmons says: “I sought out a wedding photographer who had a similar aesthetic to my own. I am awestruck by the editing I do for my clients. There’s a reason why I edit in the way I do, and I wanted the same aesthetic for myself.”
Don’t overthink it.
It can be really easy for you to devote days (or weeks!) browsing through photographer’s websites and social networks, and reading through reviews on websites like WeddingWire. As per Cavin Elizabeth who selected Tanya Menoni of Tenth & Grace for her San Diego wedding, it isn’t necessary to be difficult. “Don’t be too concerned about the searching process,” she says. “Find a handful (four or six) photographers who’s work you are a fan of, arrange phone consultations with two or three photographers who are within your budget, and choose who is the most comfortable to feel relaxed and assured that you’ll love the photos.”
Find someone who makes you feel at ease.
If you (like most people) tend to tense up before the camera, finding the wedding photographer who makes you feel calm and confident is crucial. “Even while I’m a wedding photographer for myself but being on the opposite aspect of the cameras can cause anyone to be nervous,” says Ash. “Being capable of relaxing and be confident in photography was my main goal.” Contacting a photographer in person or via Zoom prior to booking is a essential.
Do not worry (too much) in asking appropriate questions.
We’ve all been there. You’re sitting down for your first appointment with a wedding planner and then forget about the lengthy list of questions you planned to ask. Although there are certain questions you probably should ask a photographer you’re thinking of hiring, don’t freak out too much if blank on a few. As long as you’re awed by their work, they’ve been praised by past clients, their prices are within your budget, and you understand the procedure, you’re probably right to go.
“Although I might have looked at more potential photographers than the majority of couples, I knew I wasn’t going to waste my time or the photographers’ time asking them numerous questions,” says Cavin. “You ought to be captivated by the work of a select few photographers and focus your consultation on getting to know their personalities and processes. It doesn’t have to be any more complicated than that!”
View a full wedding gallery.
Most photographers feature their favorite images on their websites, social media platforms, and marketing materials. While it’s amazing to see the best of the best, Michelle advises couples to always ask to see at least one collection of their wedding photographs in order to not be just looking at the breathtaking scenic images and observing how each photographer captured more typical wedding moments, such as photos with Grandma or guests dancing or even cutting the cake.
Get involved with your favorite choices through social media.
“I would highly recommend reading through the bios on each photographer’s website before you begin following their stories on Instagram,” says Ash. “This will allow you to feel connected with them, even if you’ve not had the pleasure of meeting them in person. When the wedding day arrives you’ll feel like an old friend is taking pictures of you, not a total stranger. The majority of photographers follow you and interact with you via social media, making it feel like they know you as well. Establishing a relationship prior to the wedding day helps put all guests at ease. It will reflect on your wedding photographs.”
Find out about the style of communication.
Although it’s crucial to love your photographer’s work, it’s perhaps even more important to be aware of how you’ll work together before and during your wedding day. What time prior to the event will photographers and guests get together to discuss the plans for the day? What information does your photographer require in advance? Does your wedding photographer Cardiff have an outline of the timeline so that the wedding goes smoothly? “The wedding day is hectic, so planning everything prior to the wedding day can help make sure we capture everything the couple has put into planning,” says Ash.
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