Feb 17
choosing a photographer
Weddings are a one day deal – picking the wrong photographer can be devastating…
We thought we would jot down a few helpful hints, ideas and questions. We hope that it will give you some ideas of what to ask of and look for in a professional photographer.
1. Take a close look at the photographer’s level of experience. Experience plays a major role in a photographer’s ability to deliver proper services. More experience equals better photos.
How many weddings have they photographed?
How long have they been working in the field of photography?
How and where have they been trained?
It is often a great idea to ask for testimonials or references from the photographer. Also it is very important to view an extensive portfolio of the photographer’s work. If you only have access to viewing a limited amount of photos from the photographer then you should ask to see more. While viewing the images make sure that the work is consistent throughout and does not only contain one or two good shots that they just happened to get.
2. Quality of product and service
Does the photographer work alone or with an assistant? (Photographers who use assistants are often a better choice – two are always better than one!)
Does the photographer sign a contract with his/her clients to ensure that they will properly fulfill their obligation to you on your wedding day?
Does the photographer use high quality equipment and have a proper working knowledge of digital processes?
Does the photographer archive and store your images safely in more than one media and location?
How many cameras & memory cards does the photographer bring to the wedding? (You need to ensure that they have a lot of back-up options)
Are the photographer’s products, prints and albums professional quality?
3. Personality
Is the photographer that you meet someone that you can get along with?
If you feel uncomfortable around this person – then do not commit to them as a photographer! You will spend a chunk of your wedding day with this stranger – if you do not feel confident in and at ease around them then it can be quite awkward on your wedding day.
4. Style
There are all sorts of terms out there for different photography styles. Two of the most common styles mentioned are photojournalism and traditional.
Photojournalism is when the photographer anticipates and records a moment without the subject’s knowledge, when the photos are more artistically and creatively refined, or uniquely posed by the photographer. These photos may be in colour, black & white, and are often photographed on location.
Traditional or formal photography is usually carefully arranged, lit, set and posed by the photographer. Often this style is shot within a studio type setting.
You should know your own personal style and choose your photographer accordingly.
5. EXPERIENCE, STYLE AND QUALITY ABOVE COST! Do not take unnecessary risks with your memories! Price should not come into your decision making process until you are 100% happy with the photographer’s experience level, style, quality and even their personality!!!
It can seem tempting to skimp on photography, however, the old cliche is true…”you get what you pay for”. Some photographers have set packages and others work out a package with you depending on your needs. Most photographers are willing to negotiate with you about cost – and often want to help you – do not be afraid to ask what kind of options are available even if they seem to have set packages.
6. Communicate
Find photographs from magazines and books in the style that you like and share them with your photographer. It is important to connect with them and communicate to them what you like and what you do not like. Most professionals will appreciate your input ahead of time so that they can serve you better on your wedding day.
7. Engagement photos
This is the wisest idea ever!!! Not only do engagement photos give you a chance to get to know your photographer’s work style and personality better, they also give you a chance to get out while you still can! If these images come back to you and you are not a 100% happy with them then it is much better to withdraw from their services before your big day! Even if you lose a wedding deposit in the process it will be worth finding another photographer who suits your needs better.
Happy hunting,
Micheline & Shane Ryckman