How to get the right wedding photographer for your wedding
Choosing the right wedding photographer is essential. After all, you want them to capture every moment of your most important day. But how do you choose the right photographer for the job?
With so many photographers out there, choosing the best one for your wedding can be difficult. You want your wedding pictures to be epic. What’s more, the photographer you choose will have an influence on the style of photographic memories you are going to have created for you.
As an Independent Celebrant, I’ve spoken with plenty of couples about their experiences. And, after listening to their feedback on what felt right and what didn’t, here are my key things to consider when choosing your wedding photographer.
Top tips for choosing your wedding photographer
Choose a photographer who suits your style
When you pick your photographer, you’ve probably already seen their portfolio on their website, so you know you like their style of images.
A good wedding photographer will ask you which images you want to capture. They will also be able to give you a quote, so you can be sure it’s within your budget.
Book your photographer early
Photographers, like venues, get booked up a long time in advance. If you have found the person you like, make sure you get in early.
On average, couples book their wedding photographer approximately nine months ahead of the wedding date. If you have chosen a popular time of year and a popular weekday to marry you may have to book your photographer earlier. Remember Saturday is the most popular day for weddings and August is the most popular month. If you are set on a particular photographer but have left booking a bit later, you may need to choose a Thursday or Friday for your wedding to secure the photographer that suits your photographic vision.
Do wedding photographers retain the copyright to the images taken?
You may think that having paid for your photographer, the images belong to you. In fact, it is usual for the photographer to retain copyright of your pictures, which they may want to use for their marketing. You are usually given permission to print off your pictures for loved ones or to share and publish on your social media. If you are not sure what this entails, or don’t want them to use your images on their website, it’s always best to check with the wedding photographer from the start.
Are there different photography styles?
There are three styles that are currently in vogue. Reportage, traditional and contemporary.
- Contemporary: Usually seen in fashion, editorial or creative photographs. These tend to be posed shots, but more relaxed and the photographer tends to use exciting angles and lighting. Contemporary pictures tend to be more about the mood of the day and are normally the vision of the photographer.
- Traditional: These are more posed, conventional, and classic shots. Usually of the couple, family groups and larger groups with the guests. Traditional pictures need a lot of direction from the photographer and can be time consuming which can be tiring, especially if you have elderly guests. However, you will have classic timeless shots.
- Reportage: This is more a journalistic style of photography, it is currently very fashionable as it documents the day in an inconspicuous way. Reportage photography tells a story, one that shows genuine emotion.
It’s likely that your wedding photographer will provide a mixture to include your group shots. But to be sure, do check with your photographer that they are happy to take them.
Things to decide before picking your wedding photographer
Before you approach your preferred wedding photographer, make sure that as a couple you have agreed their style suits your personalities. Do your research and look at their portfolios to narrow down some options.
Consider your budget too. Be clear about what you can afford and stick to that budget. You may find there are opportunities to save money so ask about discounts and packages.
It’s also important that you get on with your photographer. After all, they will be spending the day with you, and you’ll be focused on your ceremony and guests. You won’t have time to directing pictures, so you need to be confident about their experience. Make sure you meet them in person before booking and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Meeting your wedding photographer in person also makes it easier for you to communicate your vision. Browse wedding magazines and wedding sites, such as Hitched. Create a mood board on Pinterest and look at other people boards too, and then you can show your wedding photographer what you have in mind.
Always read the small print
Booking a photographer means that you are entering into a contract. You should be provided a written agreement, which you need to read thoroughly, especially the small print. Make sure you understand the cancellation terms and ask questions such as whether they edit the images and what the time scale is for delivery. The contract not only protects you, it also protects the photographer.
Ask your Independent Celebrant about recommended photographers
Independent Celebrants meet many photographers at weddings. We get to see them in action, communicating with the couple and the guests, how invisible they are on the day and the effort they put in to capturing special moments, such as when the vows and rings are exchanged. If you’ve already booked your Celebrant before your photographer, ask them for a referral.
I understand that, just like the relationship that I nurture and develop with you to learn about your wedding journey, the relationship with your photographer needs to be just as unique and personal. I have a list of trusted suppliers and that includes several photographers I would love to share with you. Email me at info@denise-whelan-celebrant.com for details.
