I don't say this because it's a bad thing ~
In fact, I think more photographers experimenting with their craft, evolving as an artist, and creating meaningful images that will stand the test of time is always a great thing.
But I do say this because I think it makes choosing a wedding photographer a liiittle bit overwhelming. One FaceBook ISO post accrues hundreds of comments from photographers advertising their services. My social media feeds are flooded with sponsored ads from photographers across the world from me. So how, when there are ALL these options out there, do you decide on the right person to trust with your memories?
If it were me looking for a wedding photographer, these are the steps I would take.
1 ~ know what you're looking for.
First and foremost, I would ask myself this question: how do I want to feel in 25 years when I'm flipping through this photo album?
Do I want dozens of posed photos? Do I want to feel like a fly on the wall, observing my day through a new perspective? Do I want to remember all the silly moments from the day I spent partying with my partner and friends and family, or the hours I spent taking portraits and worrying about being behind the timeline? Or both?
Scour Pinterest, if you'd like, for something that feels representative of the way you want your day to feel, and share this with the photographers you're considering. Above all, remember it is your day. Too often, that mentality can go to the wayside.
2 ~ quality & budget
Once you've determined the type of photographer you want, look at their quality of work. If you want film, ask for a portfolio. Look at different websites, read through a photographer's biography, check out their reviews. What do their real clients have to say about them?
Determine your budget, but keep in mind: wedding photography is an investment in your future. Oftentimes, the higher the cost, the more experience someone has, which is more important than you'd think. If you're a DIY queen and working with a budget, that's fine! But skimping to get a super cheap photographer probably means they haven't shot many (or any) weddings, their client experience is not refined, and their work might not be up to par with that of a more experienced, more expensive photographer.
I would just advise you to know that nine times out of ten, in the area of wedding photos, you do, in fact, get what you pay for.
3 ~ do you connect with them?
One thing that I think most clients don't realize about finding a wedding photographer is that you will spend a huge chunk of your wedding day with this person by your side.
They'll be present while you're getting your hair done, golfing with your groomsmen, during your first look, your private vows, your ceremony. They'll be there when you cut your cake, when you smoke your cigars, when you hug your family members for the first time as husband and wife.
What does this mean? In the simplest terms: choose someone you like. Book with someone who you can tell is passionate about serving you, about documenting you. Set up a call or a coffee date, and have a conversation with this person, do a vibe check. It's more important than you might realize.
* red flags + things to look for
*Do they have reviews anywhere, on their website, FaceBook, socials? If not, ask them for some. Or find a photographer who does.
*Are there frequent typos or broken website issues? They're probably a beginner, and that might not matter to you. But if you're someone seeking an investment in a professional, meaningful experience, it's probably best to find someone whose platforms seem more put together.
*If someone's social media looks incredible, but their website or full galleries look inconsistent, that's a red flag. Pro tip - ask to see a full wedding gallery before booking.
*If you're talking with a photographer you like but it always takes them a while (4 days to a week or more) to respond? It might be an indication that there will be poor communication throughout the planning process. The sooner they reply, the better.
* I don't say this to scare you.
You're embarking on one of the most exciting journeys of your life. Enjoy it. Embrace the chaos that is wedding planning, that is preparing to spend . Obviously, search according to your area and budget: there are plenty of options! But please, from the bottom of a wedding photographer's heart, choose a photographer who you resonate with. I promise there's someone out there.
love, liz
