Hiring a wedding photographer can be stressful
on a bride and groom. There are a lot of excellent
wedding photographers to choose from and we all
have different styles. I decided to write a blog to
share some helpful tips on hiring the photographer
that is right for you. I believe some of these tips
can save the couple a little grief down the road.
1. The first step of finding the perfect photographer for your wedding is to decide on a budget for photography services.
2. Once you have agreed upon a budget you can start researching local photographers. There are several ways to find photographers in your area. Ask your friends and family for any references, search the internet, ask your venue, florist, or other wedding vendors who they recommend. Look through wedding magazines, and if you get a chance go to a wedding expo (you can even win free merchandise at the expos).
3. After you build a list of wedding photographers in your area, you can start narrowing that list. Research the photographer's business on the internet (many photographer's now have websites and Facebook accounts displaying their work). Make sure the photographer's prices are within your budget. Read about the photographer. Read what other people think about the photographer. See if the photographer's images meet your style and standards. Once you narrow down your choices it is time to make contact with the photographers (you should meet with a few photographers). First see if they are available the date of your wedding, then ask if you can meet with them face to face (these interviews are very important).
4. Interviewing the potential wedding photographer is important, and both bride and groom should be there. Ask the photographer to email you or send you a copy of their wedding contract to review before your meeting. Reading the contract prior to the meeting will help answer some of the questions you may have, or it might bring up additional questions to ask. This meeting should give you some insight on the person, not just the face behind the camera, that will be capturing your special day. Having a good relationship with your photographer can be priceless. If you feel comfortable with your photographer they will be able to get some of those special images that you will cherish for a lifetime!
5. If you get a chance do an engagement session with the photographer that you have chosen. If you are not happy with the photographer, you should still have time to find one that makes you happy. Having an engagement session will ease your mind that your photographer is who you want to trust with your precious memories.
6. I suggest to my clients that they research on Pinterest, Facebook, Photography websites, Bridal magazines, etc. for inspirations of images they want taken at their weddings. Images that are important to the bride and groom should be discussed in depth with the photographer.
Hope your wedding day is fantastic, because every bride and groom deserve a wonderful beginning to a lifetime of LOVE!
CMP by Angie