Getting married is exciting and overwhelming all in
the same breath. Costs can add up quickly and then panic mode sinks in, you
start thinking how to “cut” down and stay on budget, you think you can find a
“cheaper” photographer.
Wrong Move.
Think about it, after the dress is worn, the I Do’s are said, the cake is cut
and the dance floor has had its share of Aunt Ethel doing her best Macarena,
pictures are the ONLY memories you will have of all your hard planning. The
details, the emotions, those magic moments that take your breath away can only
be reminisced upon though a photograph. The day goes by so quickly you
have to hope and trust your photographer knows your vision and their job well
enough that every lasting moment has been caught on camera.
1. How soon I book and what will
it cost?
If you have a favourite photographer it’s best to choose your venue, date and
then photographer.
We photographers book up a year in advance- sometimes even 2 years! One of the
biggest parts of your budget should be set aside for a photographer,
period. I’m not saying the more money the better the photographer either,
what I’m saying is you get what you pay for- do your homework. You will find
photographers range from about $1500- $5000 all depends what the investment
includes.
2. How many photos do I get and what’s final
product going to look like?
Some photographers offer all the photos, but only
give 50 edited photos. Others will offer albums, wall prints, or prints- this
is often in the cost. Many or most give a custom USB with all the images for
your printing leisure. Editing will be the final finish on your photos, I
strongly suggest finding a photographer that has an editing vision you like-
Light and airy, moody, bold colours, a matte finish, or black and whites. You
want your photos to feel timeless to you.
3. How do I choose a photographer that best
suits me?
When choosing a photographer, pour over a dozen or
more websites, does their style speak to you? Are they editorial, documentary,
romantic, posed, candid, traditional? Have a meeting with photographer(s) you
are interested in. Ask to see a FULL wedding, not just the best on a website.
You want to see how the photographer captures an entire day not just a few
great shots. Most importantly, personality! The photographer is the one vendor
that will be with you the longest on your day, make sure you like them… A lot.
4. Back up?
Does your chosen photographer have back up
equipment in the case something breaks mid-day? How long and where do they keep
your photos after they have been delivered. What if you loose your photos 5, 10
even 20 years down the road- your photographer should have all weddings backed
up to external hard drive- maybe even a couple so your precious day is
preserved forever.
5. Who Should I Hire?
Don’t book a family member or friend (unless this
is legitimately their living) It never ends well for either party.
Don’t look for someone starting out in weddings, 4+ years and 40 weddings later
is when a wedding photographer really is on their game. They can handle all
lighting conditions, spur of the moment changes, they get every detail, they
have talked with other vendors involved at a wedding- minister, DJ, wedding
planner, to make sure everyone is on the same page and they are getting the
notifications to be at key moments.
Bonus tips for perfect photography
* If you have getting ready photos
make sure the area is clean of clutter.
* Have your wedding dress on a nice
hanger for photos.
* Consider an unplugged ceremony,
have your guests present- let the photographer capture the memories.
* Does your photographer offer an online
gallery? You can send the link to family and friends to download and print any
photos they want as well.
