Q&A: Things to Consider When Picking Your Wedding Photographer
Park City Wedding Photographer
Wedding Tips and Advice
Aside from picking your life partner, picking your wedding photographer may be the most important decision you make for your wedding. Most couples realize this, but the thought of sifting through endless portfolios in search of the “perfect” photographer can be incredibly intimidating. Here’s some of advice I have for the happy, thoughtful couple trying to make this big decision.
What's the best advice you'd give to any couple getting married?
''It’s an obvious one, but enjoy the day! Have fun! A stressed or unhappy bride and groom don't make for good photos. Weddings can be stressful, but remember that the only important thing on the day is that you're there to marry each other. Another thing, when planning your wedding, if the photography is important to you on the day, make sure you allow plenty of time for the formal family and friends group images as well as portraits of you and your husband/wife. These pictures that are more creative and take time It’s wise to consult with your photographer about how long to allow. It's often nice to take some time out during the wedding to have intimate pictures of just you and your partner as newly weds, away from the hustle and bustle of it all. This gives you time to breathe and spend a bit of time together while settling yourselves before going back to all of your family and friends."
What's the most important thing a couple should think about when choosing a wedding photographer?
"Choose a photographer that has pictures in their portfolio that capture the way you would like to remember your wedding. For example do you want a photographer that will make a straight forward record of the day or a photographer that will capture the romance and bond between you and your partner? What about all the detail touches you have slaved over for months? These things can easily be overlooked. Additionally, try not to shop entirely on price. When budgets are tight it's easy to look at the dollar signs before the work/talent/ability itself. Try to research photographers that tick the boxes visually and then narrow down to what fits your budget. That being said, plan on spending 10-20% of your budget on your photographer. professional ”
What would you recommend to couples budgeting for photography?
"Do not scrimp on your photography budget. The photos are the lasting memories of the day, and so many couples are left upset and disappointed because they chose a cheap photographer who didn't capture the emotion of the day and missed all the important moments. A professional photographer will have invested in the best kit and will put in the time and effort to make sure your wedding photos are incredible - and this includes hours of post-processing to really make them shine. Cheaper photographers will usually just 'shoot and burn' - giving you flat, dull, unedited photos. Make sure you look at your prospective photographers' portfolios, and even ask to see a wedding in full to make sure they didn't just get lucky on a few shots."
How important is it for the couple to spend time with their photographer before the wedding?
"If you don't meet your photographer before the wedding, even just on Skype, you're taking a risk, because you don't know if you get along. This person is going to be with you all day long, on one of the most important days of your lives, so it's vital you feel comfortable with them. On a wedding day I find myself not only taking photographs, but lending a helping hand and trying to keep things on schedule so the bride doesn’t have to worry. If the photographer gets to know you well, they will be more emotionally invested in the day. Wedding photographers aren't just suppliers, they're one of the most important guests at your wedding."
