Picking a photographer can be a difficult task because you want to have the best pictures you can for a "once in a life time" event but normally your budget doesn't allow for the $20,000 photographer to the stars. I really don't recommend cutting too many corners by letting a friend do your photos unless they are a professional or just using disposable cameras on the tables at the reception, you only have one chance to get it right, but there are ways you can keep it reasonable.
This photo is during a first look. A fist look is photographing the bride and groom seeing each other for the first time before the wedding instead of waiting to see each other walking down the aisle. This would definitely be a modern concept.
Here are some tips to help you find what you want in a photographer without feeling like you need to pay through the nose to get good quality photos.
1.
Know your style: Wedding photo styles have changed in the past few years and there is a lot more to think about when choosing these days so you should know what style(s) you want. To start there are the traditional photos consisting of posed shots of the bride and groom, wedding party, or family. Next there is also the growing trend of photojournalistic wedding pictures which are more natural and meant to capture the moments as they happen. Finally there are some photographers who are finding creative ways to put a spin on the traditional by posing the wedding party or bride and groom in fun artsy ways or using creative compositions. Before you go photographer shopping check out all these styles online and know what you like. Many photographers will mix their modern style with traditional poses if you ask because no matter how progressive you might be Gramps and Gram will still want to see the bride and groom with their attendants lined up by their sides.
I love this photo! It is so telling of my husbands personality and way better than a stuffy group shot.
2.
Ask Around:Word of mouth is still a great way to find what you want. Ask friends or co-workers who they used for a photographer. They can be non bias references for you but please don't use this as your only criteria for hiring a photographer. Still do your homework, ask questions, and check out their work.
This is a more traditional pose.
3.
Look at Their Portfolio: Once you know what you like, look at the photographer's portfolio. Ask to see multiple weddings they have photographed so you can see what they can do and if they have a variety of ideas or if they stick to some basic shots. Ask questions this will help you get to know the photographer and get a feel for their style. Finally tell the photographer what you want and see if they have any examples they can show you. Don't feel that you have to sign a contract with someone until you are satisfied with what they do. If you aren't happy keep looking around.
I just love this picture. It is so beautiful and modern.
4.
Match Personalities: You will spend one of the biggest days of your life very intimate with two people- your new spouse and your photographer, so you need to make sure you like them (Hopefully by this point you know if you like the spouse-to-be or not). The best way to do this is to have engagement photos done. It gives you a chance to know your photographer and their style before your wedding day. Many wedding packages include the engagement photos these days or you can ask for a deal if you book the wedding and engagement photos together.
5.
Film vs. Digital: Photographers use film, digital, or both. Some people believe film is better because you can get better quality photos but frankly with modern technology it is difficult to tell the difference if there is any between the two. Ask which type(s) of photos your photographer will be taking - photographers can charge you more for film and add extra charges in the middle of you big day if they run out of film. If you have your heart set on film photos make sure to leave room in your budget for some extra expenses.
This is one of my favorite photos from my wedding. It is so simple but says so much about what I was going for. It also reminds me of my childhood as I have spend many Sunday mornings in those pews. It is made so fantastic by the use of great compositional skills. (I won't bore you to death with art lingo but a little know-how goes a long way.)
6.
Lighting in the Church: If you plan on having your wedding in a church or dimly lit area ask your photographer if their camera can handle dim lighting. Most churches don't allow flashes so your photographer needs to have the right equipment to take quality photos. Ask to see images they have taken in a church without a flash.
A photo taken by one of my guests with just a regular camera.
I was shocked to see how poorly my guest photos turned out in the church lighting. I am very glade Jessica, my photographer, had the right camera. You can really see the difference.
I hope this information helps you make a better educated decision in your hunt for a wedding photographer.
Check out two of my photo friend's fantastic work at:
http://www.alannascullyblog.com/
http://jmphotographyblog.com/
