Things To Consider When Choosing Your Wedding Photographer
Things To Consider When Choosing Your Wedding Photographer
Yes!!! It happened!!! The moment you have been waiting for...the big day...the surprise...he asked. And you said yes!!! Getting engaged is probably one of the most exciting moments of your entire life!! We still remember when we got engaged and that was over 15 ...but who's counting. And now that he put a ring on it💍...so the planning process starts!
It usually starts with the venue and a date (although I have recently had a couple of brides ask me before securing one)! Shortly after these are secured, the search begins for the perfect photographer! Where do you even start?? It really can be overwhelming once the planning begins. So I want to help by sharing some insight on four things to keep in mind while choosing the right photographer for your wedding day! Let’s get right into it!
The first thing to consider is your style.
What types of images are you drawn to? It may seem like an odd question, but in reality, there are certain “types” of images that people really like…it may match your personality but it may be quite the opposite.
So what are the photography styles? I will try my best to explain it.
1. Vibrant and bright. The skin tones tend to be on the warm side and colors pop to give the images a flattering and beautiful look.
2. Light and Airy style. This is a popular style for weddings. It is bright, soft, and romantic. The skies may be overexposed. The couple looks beautiful.
3. Dark and moody style. This will show deep shadows and minimal highlights.
4. High Contrast. For these images, you will notice a bigger difference from the highlights to the shadows.
4. Epic style. This style often uses advanced lighting techniques to create dramatic and awe-inspiring images. It may show wider angles, Typically wide shots, HDR photography (High Dynamic Range), advanced off camera flash, and shutter drags. Night photography may also be included in this category.
Each photographer has their own style…some may offer a combination. When you have your style, it is easier to narrow down the best photographers for you!
For example, my style is light and airy and natural. I tend to place my clients in light that is flattering, with less emphasis on dark shadows. I feel this really matches my personality and creates a timeless look. Now depending on the location and time of day, I may create more dark and moody images, but this is mainly when there is less available light i.e. during the reception or when the groom is getting ready in a small room…we may include images with a more dramatic feel. We try to keep the moments true to how it looked on your wedding day so it will bring you back to those special moments. I am also well schooled in off-camera flash and enjoy making those epic style shots. I am drawn to natural light, but have grown to really love using advanced lighting techniques to bring the light whenever I need it.
I have had couples tell me they love contrasty and dramatic images. At that point, I offer some of my photographer friends who have a similar love. It is okay to not be the perfect photographer for everyone.
Once you have determined what style you love, then look at your budget and set priorities.
What is most important? What is less important? This is so difficult (especially with the creation of Pinterest and the ability to gather all kinds of wonderful and sometimes costly ideas). Knowing what you want and budgeting is so important.
This may sound like an insanely obvious requirement for finding any vendor for your wedding, but it’s something that you definitely have to consider. Many people think that it comes down to strictly a numbers thing when it comes to figuring out what photographer (or any vendor) you can afford for your wedding day. You need to first need to set priorities. While it is important to think about what you can afford, you also need to think about where you want to spend your money. My advice is to discuss this with your fiancé along with anyone else who is involved in the planning (and financing). Figure out those big deal items first and go from there.
What is a MUST HAVE on your wedding day? What are some things you could DIY or have creative family members assist on to decrease the costs and shift the money to other areas.
Is there something you thought you needed but you don’t really need it…maybe you need it, but not as much. Once you have determined those priorities and your overall budget, you can see if money can be shifted from one area to another. Take the time to sit down and prioritize what is THE most important thing you want on your wedding day.
So you have a style, an idea of your price range, now starts your search.
If you are in the stage of life where many of your friends are getting married, ask around. They may have the best guidance on the good ones, the great ones, and the ones that are not good to do business with. My clients are my biggest advocates and I love them for it! Perhaps you want to do a google search or look on one of those wedding sites. Do your search, find a few, and head to their website. Most photographers have pages for prices (aka investments), their wedding experience (which gives you a glimpse into their style of shooting and their quality of images), and an about page where you can find more info. You can also find an “inquiry” or "contact" section. Fill out that contact form and see what happens! This is when you will get to know even more information! Are they very responsive? Are they easy to reach? What is their process? If you like what you see, then set up a meeting...Once you meet, do you feel comfortable with them? Do you like their personality (very important since they will be with you your entire wedding day)?
For me, I have a bubbly personality with an Army background…that means I am a bubbly type-A personality. I love to plan and schedule, but I also love to go with the flow (thanks to my husband’s laid-back personality). I am a people-person. Love hugs over hand-shakes and enjoy talking and listening. Oftentimes I keep in touch with my couples and wind up photographing their new babies. I genuinely like my people! My personality is not for everyone…and that is ok. I am glad to refer to you my group of photographer friends and help you find someone that is right for you.
So there it is! Just a few things to consider when looking for a photographer. Next month we will go over some questions to ask.
Happy planning!!!
xoxo, Jen
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Jennifer Beeman
Jennifer B. Photography.
Wedding and Portrait Photographer of the Carolinas