You said yes, you’re wearing the ring, and now the long list of decisions begins. Choosing a wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your wedding. Of course, your photographer will be documenting your once-in-a-lifetime day, but there’s much more that goes on behind the scenes. You’ll spend the majority of your day together and you’ll trust them to capture every unforgettable, heartwarming moment down to each little detail. The day you’ll want to remember for the rest of your life will be captured through their eyes, so choosing wisely is recommended.
Now, I’ll be honest. Of course I want to say, “Ahem! I’d love to be your photographer!”, but it’s important to me that you first get some unbiased facts that are important in this decision. Let’s talk about what you may want to consider when hiring ANY wedding photographer.
1. P H O T O S
Have you seen a full gallery? You’re allowed, even encouraged, to ask to see a photographers work right from the start. Or maybe we’ll start with, what even is a full gallery? A full gallery shows you an estimated average number of photos as well as the type of photos the photographer may include in their final galleries.
Let’s be real, a lot of people can take a beautiful photo at sunset with the right camera. However, the majority of your wedding will not be under those circumstances! You want to see a gallery that shows all types of locations, lighting, and parts of the day. A sunset photo will look very different than a photo of you getting ready in a hotel room. Trusting the photographer’s ability to photograph and edit a full gallery is crucial to a successful day and gallery. Having confidence in their consistency while loving the style of their photography is important. Being certain that your photographer will incorporate any special photo requests you or your wedding party makes isn’t something that should be overlooked.
I love capturing candid moments for my couples, so you’ll see that throughout the galleries that I share.
2. P E R S O N A L I T Y
Do you get along? This may seem like a simple or silly question to some, but it’s a serious one! You and your wedding photographer are going to see a LOT of one another on your big day. Your family, your bridal party, not even your spouse will see you as much as your photographer. It’s important to see if your personalities mesh well and you genuinely enjoy being around each other. Feeling comfortable with your photographer will allow you to feel more like yourself in photos. (Which is exactly what you will want!)
This is a huge reason that I love doing engagement sessions with my couples! Not only does it give us a chance to meet in person before the wedding day, but it lets you get comfortable in front of the camera. You’ll have an idea of what it’s like shooting with me, so you’ll feel like a pro by your wedding day.
3. P L A N N I N G
Does your photographer have any “behind the scenes” work? There are some very important questions that no one really wants to think about, but here we go!
What’s the photographer’s back up plan if something were to happen to them before your wedding day?
Would they be able to help you find a replacement? Is it in their contract? Do they have insurance?
How well do they communicate? Are they easy to get in contact with?
I talk a bit more in depth in my other blog, How to Build your Perfect Wedding Day Timeline, but these questions just skim the surface of all the considerations you may want to face prior to your wedding day. As much of a pain as it may seem, it’s worth it to ensure a stress free day.
Those are just a few of the key things that I think it’s important to consider when choosing a wedding photographer. Of course you’ll have your own questions as well, and I am always happy to answer any of them. Contact me today and let’s chat!
-Darian
