We sought advice on how to choose a wedding photographer from the real experts–recently-married wedding photographers.
One of the biggest questions recently-engaged couples face is what to consider when choosing the best wedding photographer. When it comes to choosing vendors, it’s often helpful to seek out advice and recommendations from recently-wed couples to steer you towards the proper direction. To help to the legwork for you, we talked to three recently-married photographers–Michelle Harris of M Harris Studios in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Cavin Elizabeth of Cavin Elizabeth Photography in San Diego, California, and Ashley Simmons of Ash Simmons Photography in Pensacola, Florida–who have a unique perspective on the whole process. Not only are they expert photographers, they have first-hand knowledge of the wedding planning experience.
Get this insider tip about how to select a wedding photographer, straight from the pros.
Choose your priorities.
With the number of talented photographers available it can be difficult to find “the one” can be a challenge, more so for photographers themselves because they’re so involved in the world of photography. If you prioritize your most important criteria and deciding on your top priorities, you’ll be able less easily narrow the list of. Ashley Simmons, who got married in March of this year in Milton, Florida, chose Melissa Wilson of Melissa Wilson Photography for her photoshoot of her micro wedding. “Seeing hundreds of photos from various photographers every day is overwhelming and can make finding the perfect photographer difficult,” she said. “For me I chose to stay with my priorities like my style, someone who I could connect with, and consistent in their work. Melissa checked all of the boxes.”
Give yourself some wiggle room for your money.
If you’re considering how to choose a Cardiff wedding photographer, establishing an estimate of the cost is among the first actions. Of course, it’s important to decide on a budget you can afford on a photographer (usually couples allocate around 13% of their total budget on photography and videography), but if photography is something that is very important to you, it’s worth making allowances. “I was given $4,000 and I wanted to spend iton a photographer,” says Michelle Harris, who selected Corrin Jasinski for her wedding photographer. “I ended having spent $4,400 and am happier than I ever was!”
You don’t need to be an expert in photography styles.
While you’re thinking about which wedding photographer It’s an excellent idea to study different photography styles. Here’s a tip from the pros: If you’re not an expert on documentary or. classic portraiture, that’s acceptable. All that’s important is that you love the photographer’s work , and imagine yourself in their photos. When deciding on Melissa Wilson for her wedding, Ash Simmons says: “I sought out a wedding photographer who had an aesthetic that was similar to my own. I love the editing I provide my clients. There’s a reason why I edit the way I do, and I wanted a similar aesthetic for myself.”
Do not overthink it.
It’s not difficult be able to sit for hours (or weeks!) checking out photographers’ websites and social channels, as well as reading reviews on sites such as WeddingWire. According to Cavin Elizabeth, who chose Tanya Menoni of Tenth & Grace for her San Diego wedding, it doesn’t have to be that complicated. “Don’t overthink the photo search process,” she says. “Find some (four to six) photographers who you like their work, make phone calls with two or three that are in budget, and then choose the one who makes you feel most relaxed and assured that you’ll love the photos.”
Find someone who makes you feel at ease.
If you (like most people) tend to be anxious when you are in front of the camera, choosing a wedding photographer who can make you feel relaxed and assured is more crucial. “Even although I’m an event photographer and am on the other face of the lens can make anyone anxious,” says Ash. “Being capable of relaxing and be confident in the photographer I chose was my primary priority.” A meeting with a photographer in person or via Zoom before making a booking is a necessity.
Don’t fret (too much) about asking the right questions.
We’ve all been there: When you sit down to your first meeting with a wedding planner and you’re unable to remember the lengthy list of questions that you wanted to ask. While yes, there are certain questions you ought to ask any photographer you’re considering, don’t freak out too much if you do not know the answers to some. As long as you’re awed by their work, they’ve had positive reviews from previous clients, the price is within budget, and you understand the process they follow, you’re likely in good shape.
“Although I may have examined more potential photographers than many couples, I was certain that I shouldn’t waste my time or the photographers’ time by asking lots of queries,” says Cavin. “You should fall in love with the work of a certain few photographers and focus your conversation on getting be familiar with their personalities and workflows. The process doesn’t have to be more complex than that!”
View a full wedding gallery.
The majority of photographers showcase their top images on their websites, social media platforms, as well as marketing materials. While it’s wonderful to look at the best of the top photographers, Michelle advises couples to always ask to see at least one complete collection of their wedding photographs, so you’re not only taking in the amazing landscapes but also seeing how each photographer captures more regular wedding moments like photographs of Grandma or guests dancing or even cutting the cake.
Connect with your top picks on social media.
“I would highly recommend reading through the bio on each photographer’s website , and then following their posts on Instagram,” says Ash. “This will help you feel connected to them even if you’ve never had the pleasure of meeting them in person. On the day of your wedding it will be like you have a friend who is taking photos of you rather than a stranger. The majority of photographers follow you back and engage with you via social media, making it feel that they know you well. Building a connection prior to the wedding day helps put all guests at ease. It will reflect in the wedding photos.”
Ask about communication style.
While it’s essential that you respect your photographer’s work it’s even more crucial to know how you’ll work together prior to and on your wedding day. What time prior to the wedding will photographers and guests meet to discuss the day’s schedule? What details does your photographer require in advance? Do you want your photographer to create an agenda to ensure that everything runs smoothly? “The wedding day can be chaotic, and making sure we plan everything prior to the wedding day helps ensure we record everything the couple has spent months planning,” says Ash.
