10 Things You Should Know About Your Wedding Photographer
Hiring a photographer for your wedding is an essential part of this beautiful process. Therefore, I'm pretty sure that you would like to have a wedding photojournalist that can freeze each moment of this unrepeatable day and provide you a great experience. These five tips will give you a great idea of what you should have in consideration before you choose the right professional photographer for your wedding.
Bethesda Terrace at Central Park, New York
Pre-Wedding Photo Session
Photographer’s Style
Before you choose your photographer, you must define your wedding vision. If you still need to get this very clear, I recommend taking this one minute quiz that will help you discover your wedding vision based on your love story. On the other hand, the photographer's style is something that you should have in mind before hiring one. Why is this important? Every photographer has a different style; for example, some are moody, airy, vintage, film, bold, etc. If a photographer tells you, "Well, I don't have a style define." It could mean two things; first, the photographer is a beginner or lacks consistency in his o her work. Every photographer has a unique style, so reviewing their portfolio and ensuring their aesthetic aligns with your vision is crucial. Look for consistency in their work, and pay attention to their composition, lighting, and the emotions they capture. Consider whether their style matches the atmosphere and theme of your wedding.
If the photographer asks you, How would you like your photo to be edited? Ensure the photographer shows you images processed the way you would like yours to be edited. The photographer's portfolio will give you a basic idea of his/her knowledge, techniques, and ability to get the job done. Keep in mind that it will be better for you to hire a photographer with a style that goes well with your wedding vision.
Editorial Photography Style
2. Picture taker or a Photojournalist
Another very significant thing is the photographer's mission during the wedding. You probably think the assignment should be to take my pictures. And yes, you're right. But with what purpose? If you want the photographer to just deliver some images during different moments of the wedding, this style is not wrong. But it is something you have to have in knowledge.
But, if you want your photos that tell a story that resonates with your love story, you would have to ask the photographer to show you real wedding photos or albums. And not only that, he/she should be able to tell you a little bit about the story of the couple, something special. To be able to do this, the photographer has to take the time to discover the couple's story that identifies the relation. Being a wedding photojournalist requires structure and discipline.
Another important thing is the cultural aspects and traditions that are part of both families. Just imagine that the photographer delivers your images, and you don’t see a special significant moment that is part of some family tradition. How would you feel? Cultural and traditional aspects identify the family’s inheritance and legacy, and it has to be part of the story, no question ask.
As you can see, this is something significant, and the photographer has to do the homework. If the photographer does not have this wedding photojournalist style, he/she will not have contact with you until your wedding day, and the team will go to your wedding to take photos without a specific purpose in mind.
Is this good or bad? Like I said before, It depends on how you want your story to be told.
Photojournalism Photography Style
3. Engagement shoot
Make sure your photographer includes an engagement shoot in their service. This fun photo session is significant for the couple and the photographer; it will help both get to know each other. It will allow the couple to see how the photographer works and break the shyness in front of the camera. Another good thing about this photo session is that you would have a good idea of how your wedding photos would look. This session will allow you to see the photographer's personality, expertise, and professionalism, something fundamental.
Check our Blog Post How To Prepare for Your Love Story Photo Session for some tips about Engagement, Pre-Wedding, and Love Story Photo Sessions.
And also you can read How to Pick the Perfect Engagement Spot
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4. Album
Some people may think that the products that the photographer offers are not essential. Imagine that your photographer delivers an album that, after one year, the pages start getting bent in the corner or detach from the album. How would you feel about it? Pretty upset, I bet, and it is not for less. You're going to invest not only for a service but for a product that will preserve an unrepeatable moment, and you're about to lose it.
So yes, you should know what labs the photographer used for the album print and the quality of the product. And yes, this would probably affect the investment of your service. Still, in the end, you and your partner would be thankful that your photographer took the time to study and analyze a fair amount of album labs and select one with a high-quality product for you.
5. Photographer’s Preparation
You should know how your photographer prepared for the work. Ask your photographer about the shooting list, the shooting plan if it starts raining or if he or she gets sick. These are critical stuff that you must know, and that will give you information about the photographer's experience. Remember, you are celebrating one if not the most important day of your life—a day with your family and closest friends. What the photographers have in their hands is a serious responsibility, and if he or she can not see it this way, they should not have your trust; it is that simple. A photographer with experience should be able to deliver a plan for different scenarios.
6. Experience and Expertise
Wedding photography requires specific skills and expertise. It's essential to inquire about the photographer's experience in shooting weddings. Ask how many weddings they have photographed, how long they have been in the industry, and if they have worked at venues similar to yours. An experienced wedding photographer will be better prepared to handle different situations and capture your day flawlessly. To corroborate this, you can check their web page and make sure the photographer has a link where you can see their work. And I’m not talking about the best picture of different weddings; I’m talking about the photographer showcasing pictures of the various wedding stages. For example, if you visit my Stories Gallery, you will be able to see some of the weddings I have worked on, and on each link, you will have an inside of almost the entire wedding. The photographers show you their work, and let you know:
That their work is legit
That they have experience
Give you an expectation of how your photos would look like.
This topic gives the forced foot for the next thing you should evaluate before hiring a photographer.
7. Profesionalism and Communication
Communication is vital when working with a wedding photographer. Ensure they are responsive, attentive, and prompt in their communication. A professional photographer should be organized, provide precise details about their services, packages, and pricing, and be willing to answer any questions you may have. They should also have a written contract outlining the agreement's terms and conditions.
How our photographer communicates the terms and conditions of the contract will let you know if you can trust him/her; the photographer has to have clear all about pricing and service. Also, it should let you know how your photos will be delivered and for how long you will have access to the pick-up point. And, of course, regarding your wedding, the photographer should let you know when he/she will be at the venue or preparation spot to start working with you.
When we talk about professionalism, you must visit the photographer's Web Page; through there, you will be able to see not only the portfolio (which is essential) but also the personality and projection of the photographer. It is probable that the photographer does not have a Web Page, this means that you can not trust him/her? of course not. This photographer can still be trusted and can give you an excellent service. Still, then you would have to visit the social page or business page on IG or Facebook and get a taste of how it would experience of working with X or Y photographers.
Do you know what is good to get to know if the photographer has good communication skills and professionalism; tip number 8.
8. Reviews
Researching reviews and testimonials from previous clients can provide valuable insights into a photographer's reliability, professionalism, and quality of their work. Read reviews on trusted platforms or ask for recommendations from friends, family, or other vendors involved in the wedding industry. For this, you can check the different platforms of the photographer; a professional photographer will have no fear of showcasing their reviews. For example, you can visit their Web Page, Google, Facebook, IG or Wedding Wire .
Reviews are an excellent way to measure what to expect from the photographer or wedding provider. If you pay close attention to the Reviews, you will see constant wording in the different reviews. For example, you can see that other people say that the photographer is trustworthy, always answers email or text, always is in contact, and always listen; this is a different way to tell the photographer is professional and have excellent communication skills and system.
9. Backup Plans
It's essential to ask about their backup plans in case of emergencies or equipment failure. Professional photographers should have backup cameras, lenses, and lighting equipment to continue shooting without significant disruptions. Additionally, they should have a plan for backing up and safeguarding your wedding photos to prevent loss or damage.
You must ask the photographer what is the backup plan? Of course, even though, and until now, I haven’t had a client that asks me this, it is very important that you get to know how many cameras the photographer has at the wedding and if it is a second photographer at the wedding.
Next point, you probably don’t know anything about cameras, and it doesn’t matter; it is crucial you ask if the primary equipment is a professional one as well as the one for backup. A well-prepared photographer will give you confidence and peace, and of course, it lets you know he/she is a professional.
10. Contracts and Insurance
Always sign a contract with your wedding photographer to protect both parties interests. The contract should outline the agreed-upon services, pricing, cancellation policy, and any other important details. Additionally, ensure that the photographer has liability insurance to provide coverage in case of accidents or mishaps.
These 10 tips will help you see the wedding photographer hiring process differently. You and your partner must take the time to analyze each choice wisely. Define your wedding vision; if you don't have one, take the one minute quiz and discover your wedding vision based on your Love Story. Once you have this setup, look for a photographer that best fits that vision using the tips I just gave you. I wish you a beautiful and remarkable wedding day.
