We sought advice on how to choose a wedding photographer from the real experts–recently-married wedding photographers.
One of the most common concerns newly engaged couples have is the best way to select the right photographer for their wedding. When choosing photographers, it’s usually helpful to seek advice and suggestions from newly-wed couples to guide you towards the proper 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 photographers with expertise, but they also have direct experience of the wedding planning process.
Get this insider tip on choosing the right Cardiff wedding photographer from the pros.
Choose your priorities.
With the number of talented photographers in the world to choose from, finding “the one” isn’t easy, and perhaps even more difficult for photographers because they’re so involved within the field. However, by prioritizing your primary criteria and deciding on your top priorities, you’ll be able reduce the selection of photographers. Ashley Simmons, who got married in March of this year in Milton, Florida, chose Melissa Wilson of Melissa Wilson Photography to photograph her small wedding. “Seeing hundreds of images from different photographers each day can be overwhelming , and makes selecting the right photographer even difficult,” she said. “For me I stayed to my goals that were similar to my own style, someone that I could relate to, and the sameness of their work. Melissa ticked all the boxes.”
You should allow yourself some flexibility within your spending plan.
If you are thinking about the best wedding photographer, establishing an estimate of the cost is among the first actions. It’s crucial to determine the amount you are able to afford on the photographer (usually couples will spend around twelve percent of the total budget on videography and photography) However, if photography is a priority for you, then you might want to consider having some flexibility. “I had $4,000 in my budget and was looking to spend it,” declares Michelle Harris, who selected Corrin Jasinski to be the wedding photographer. “I ended having spent $4,400 and am more content than ever!”
It’s not necessary to be an expert in the art of photography.
When you’re trying to figure out the best wedding photographer It’s an excellent idea to learn about different photographic styles. Here’s a tip from the experts: If you’re not an expert in documentary or. traditional portraiture, it’s acceptable. All that’s important is that you enjoy the work of the photographer and imagine yourself in their photos. When deciding on Melissa Wilson for her wedding, Ash Simmons says: “I sought out an event photographer with the same style as my personal style. I am awestruck by the editing I make for my clients. There’s a reason why I edit in the way I do and I was looking for to emulate the same style for myself.”
Don’t get caught up in the details.
It’s really easy for you to devote many hours (or days!) looking through photographers’ websites and social mediapages, and reading reviews on websites such as WeddingWire. Based on Cavin Elizabeth who picked Tanya Menoni of Tenth & Grace for her San Diego wedding, it isn’t that difficult. “Don’t think too much about the selection process,” she says. “Find several (four up to 6) photographers who you like their work, arrange phone consultations with two or three photographers who are within your budget, and select the one that will make you feel relaxed and assured that you’ll be thrilled with your photographs.”
Find someone who is comfortable with you.
If you (like the majority of people) are prone to getting nervous when you are in front of the camera, choosing the wedding photographer who can make you feel relaxed and assured is more crucial. “Even even though I’m an experienced wedding photographer but being on the other photographer’s side could cause anyone to be nervous,” says Ash. “Being relaxed and be confident with the photographer I chose was my main goal.” The photographer’s meeting in person or via Zoom prior to booking is a essential.
Don’t be concerned (too too much) over asking appropriate questions.
It’s all too familiar. You’re seated to your first meeting with a wedding photographer and then forget about the lengthy list of questions you planned to ask. Although there are some questions you might want to ask a photographer you’re thinking of hiring, don’t freak out if you are unable to answer a few. If you’re in love with their work, they’ve had positive reviews from previous clients, they’re in budget, and you know the process they follow, you’re likely in good shape.
“Although I may have had a look at more photographers than the majority of couples, I was certain that I shouldn’t spend my time or photographers’ time by asking them numerous inquiries,” says Cavin. “You must be captivated by the work of a small handful of photographers and concentrate your discussion on getting to understand their personality and methods. There’s no need to be any more complex than this!”
View a full wedding gallery.
The majority of photographers showcase their top images on their websites, social media platforms, as well as marketing materials. Although it’s great to view the very best of the most outstanding, Michelle advises couples to always request at least one complete gallery of wedding photos to ensure that you’re not just seeing the stunning scenic photos as well as seeing the way each photographer captures typical wedding moments, such as photographs of Grandma or guests dancing or even the cutting of the cake.
Connect with your top picks via social networks.
“I strongly recommend going through the bios on each photographer’s website , and then following their posts through Instagram,” says Ash. “This helps you feel more connected to them even if you’ve never seen them in person. On the day of your wedding you’ll feel like you have a friend who is taking photos of you, instead of a total stranger. The majority of photographers follow you and interact with you via social media, making it feel that they know you well. Establishing a relationship prior to the wedding day can help put everyone at ease , and it will show on your wedding pictures.”
Find out about the style of communication.
While it’s important to appreciate your photographer’s work, it’s even more crucial to know how you’ll work together prior to and on the wedding ceremony. What time prior to the wedding do the photographer and you get together to discuss the schedule of your wedding day? What details does your photographer require prior to the event? Does your photographer have an outline of the timeline so that the wedding goes smoothly? “The wedding day itself can be hectic, so planning everything before the wedding day can help ensure that we document everything that the couple has been making plans for,” says Ash.
