Rhiannon Hendricks
Wedding photographers are often booked well in advance, so it's important to start your search early. It is recommended to book your wedding photographer at least 6 months before the wedding, with some sources suggesting 9 months to 2 years in advance. Once you have your venue and date set, you can start reaching out to photographers to enquire about their availability. Before booking, it is considered important to meet your wedding photographer, either in person or via video call, to ensure that you feel comfortable and that your personalities mesh. This initial consultation allows you to ask questions, discuss your plans and establish a rapport, which can lead to more authentic and enjoyable photos on your wedding day.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Meeting before booking | To get a sense of their personality and how well you get along |
| Photographer's attire | To ensure it aligns with the event's dress code and your preferences |
| Photographer's equipment | To understand their plan in case of malfunctions |
| Photography style and preferences | To ensure the photographer captures the desired moments and significant people |
| Lighting and venue specifics | To allow the photographer to plan and be prepared for lighting quirks |
| Timetable and schedule | To ensure the photographer captures all the important moments and events |
| Second shooter or assistant | To get different angles and ensure full coverage in case of any issues |
| Engagement shoot | To get comfortable with the photographer and their style |
| Dietary restrictions | To accommodate the photographer's needs during the event |
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What You'll Learn
Getting a feel for their personality
When it comes to choosing a wedding photographer, it's essential to consider not just their professional skills but also their personality. After all, this is someone you'll be spending a lot of time with on one of the most important days of your life.
- Schedule a call or video call: Before committing, it's a good idea to hop on a phone call, schedule a video call, or meet virtually via Skype or Facetime. This allows you to get a sense of their personality and communication style. During the call, pay attention to how they make you feel. Do they make you feel listened to and cared for? Are they excited about your wedding and do they seem to genuinely care about your vision?
- Read their website bio: Most photographers will have a bio on their website, which can give you insights into their personality, background, and approach to their work. Reading their bio can help you feel more connected to them even before you meet.
- Engagement photoshoot: If possible, consider booking an engagement photoshoot with your potential photographer. This gives you a chance to spend time with them and see how they work before the pressure of the wedding day. It's a low-stakes way to test out your compatibility and get comfortable in front of the camera.
- Ask for referrals and read reviews: Ask married friends and family about their experiences with their wedding photographers. Personal referrals can give you insight into the photographer's personality and work ethic. Additionally, reading reviews from past clients can provide valuable information about their professionalism, reliability, and how they interact with their clients.
- Meet in person: If feasible, schedule an in-person meeting. This allows for a more authentic connection and a better sense of their personality. You can discuss your vision for the wedding and see if they're a good fit. In-person meetings also provide an opportunity to review physical copies of their work and discuss any concerns or questions you may have.
Remember, it's important to trust your instincts and go with a photographer who makes you feel comfortable and excited. You should feel confident that they will capture your special moments authentically and respectfully.
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Discussing what photos you want
Meeting your wedding photographer beforehand is essential to ensure you are both on the same page about your expectations and their capabilities. This also helps you understand if you get along with them, which is crucial since you will be spending your entire wedding day with them by your side.
Understand their Aesthetic and Working Style
Ask to see a full wedding gallery or their portfolio to understand their aesthetic and working style. Do they tend to blend into the background to capture candid moments, or do they take charge and choreograph images? Ensure their style aligns with your vision for the day. Also, ask about their post-production process and expected turnaround time for delivering the final images.
Specify Important Shots and Subjects
Provide a list of must-have shots and subjects that are important to you. This could include specific moments like the first kiss, first dance, vows, and special details like a family heirloom incorporated into your outfit. If there are specific people you want to be photographed with, like your maternal grandmother, let the photographer know.
Discuss Posed vs. Candid Shots
Decide on the ratio of posed to candid shots you want. If you prefer more posed, romantic shots, communicate this, and the photographer can guide you and your partner accordingly. If you want more candid shots of guests having fun, specify this as well, so the photographer can focus on capturing the atmosphere and guest reactions.
Inquire about Equipment and Backups
While you may not understand the difference between camera brands, it's essential to know they have backup equipment and a plan in case of malfunctions. Ask about their setup, like large flashes or umbrellas, so you can plan your decor and space accordingly.
Understand their Attire
Discuss what the photographer plans to wear. While most photographers dress in neutral, understated attire, knowing their choice of clothing can help you avoid any clashes with your wedding party's colours.
Meeting your wedding photographer and having detailed discussions about the photos you want will ensure you are both aligned and help create a stress-free, enjoyable experience on your special day.
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Asking about their equipment
It is important to meet your wedding photographer before the big day. You'll be spending a lot of time with this person, so an interview will guarantee a positive experience working together.
When you meet them, be sure to ask about their equipment. A professional wedding photographer should have public liability insurance and equipment insurance. If they don't have insurance, it may be a sign that they are part-time or doing it as a hobby. You can also ask about their backup equipment and whether they shoot with two memory cards. This is important because you don't want to lose your photos if their equipment fails.
You might also want to ask about their favourite lenses and whether they shoot film. This will give you an idea of the variety of focal lengths they will use. Ask about their experience shooting in low-light conditions if your wedding is indoors.
Don't be afraid to ask to see full galleries from weddings. You want to make sure you like all the pictures, not just the best ones they post on their online portfolio. Ask about the resolution of the images you will receive and whether they will be edited.
Lastly, ask about their approach to equipment failure. A professional photographer will have a backup plan and the experience to navigate unexpected situations seamlessly.
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Knowing their attire
Knowing what your wedding photographer will be wearing on your big day is an important, yet often overlooked, consideration. It's a good idea to discuss attire with your photographer in advance to ensure they will be appropriately dressed for your wedding.
Dress Code
Some couples have a specific dress code for their wedding, which may be related to the formality of the event or cultural traditions. For example, in some cultures, only the bride should wear red. It's a good idea to communicate any dress codes or traditions to your photographer so they can choose their outfit accordingly.
Professional Attire
While there is no one-size-fits-all answer for what a wedding photographer should wear, it's generally recommended that they dress professionally and modestly. Dark colours like black, navy blue, burgundy, and dark grey are often considered safe options, as they look professional and help the photographer blend into the background.
Comfortable Shoes
Wedding photographers are on their feet for long periods, so comfortable shoes are a must. Flats, loafers, low-heeled shoes, or even white sneakers can provide comfort and support while still looking stylish.
Blending In
Some photographers prefer to blend in with the guests, so they may choose their outfit based on the style of the wedding. For example, a casual outdoor wedding might call for a dress and sun hat, while a formal black-tie wedding might be better suited for a sleek jumpsuit or a dressier outfit.
Venue Dress Codes
It's also worth noting that some wedding venues, such as country clubs, have dress codes that apply to everyone onsite, including vendors and photographers. These venues may not allow jeans, so it's best to avoid them altogether and opt for dress pants or a nicer outfit.
In summary, while the specific attire of your wedding photographer may not be the most important consideration, it's still a good idea to discuss dress codes, traditions, and venue requirements with them in advance to ensure they are appropriately and comfortably dressed for your special day.
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Understanding their editing style
Understanding a wedding photographer's editing style is crucial before hiring them. Photographers spend hours editing and retouching images to create a consistent portfolio that represents their brand and artistic style.
When researching wedding photographers, it's essential to compare similar styles. Understanding the nuances of light, shadow, and colour interpretations can help you decide on a style that resonates with you. For instance, a ""natural editing" style aims for authenticity, showcasing bold colours, highlights, and shadows, while a "light and airy" style features a soft palette with light pastel colours and less contrast.
To find your preferred editing style, ask photographers for full wedding galleries from recent events. Pay attention to the lighting and setting of the ceremony and reception venues, as these conditions significantly impact the final images.
While it's essential to respect the photographer's style, some professionals may adapt their editing to meet your preferences. Clear communication is key, and some photographers offer retouching services or Photoshop adjustments to enhance client satisfaction while maintaining their distinctive style.
Remember, wedding photography is an art, and you should choose a photographer whose style aligns with your vision. If you have specific editing requests, discuss them beforehand to ensure the photographer can accommodate your expectations without compromising their artistic vision.
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Frequently asked questions
Meeting your wedding photographer before booking them allows you to get a sense of their personality and whether you feel comfortable with them. You will be spending a lot of time with your photographer on your wedding day, so it's important that your personalities mesh.
Wedding photographers are often booked well in advance, so it's a good idea to start looking as soon as you have your venue and date set. Some photographers suggest booking at least 9 months in advance, while others recommend 12-18 months.
If you are working with a shorter timeline, don't panic! It's still possible to find a great photographer. You may need to be more flexible and consider booking a less popular photographer or one who is just starting out.
It's important to find a photographer whose style and personality align with your unique vision for your wedding. Ask yourself if you feel comfortable and relaxed with them and if their skills and artistic vision match what you are looking for.
During your initial meeting, it's a good idea to ask the photographer about their packages, pricing, and availability. You can also discuss your wedding plans and vision to see if they are a good fit for what you are looking for.
