Finding a Wedding Photographer
Finding a photographer for your big day is one of the most important things to get booked in for your wedding. Your wedding photographer is the director of the wedding by guiding you through the day unless you book a documentary style photographer (see styles page). The photographer organises your guests, telling them where to go, where to stand, when to throw confetti, when and where to do the traditional photos as well as when to travel from the church to the reception venue.
Wedding photographers will often chip in at the last minute when help is required (I have taken bridesmaids and the bride's mum to church in the past).
Budget - As with the wedding itself you need to understand what you can spend on a photographer as this will help you find one that meets your needs.
What would you like? - Have a think about what you want from your photographer, do you want all day cover? do you only want a couple of hours of coverage? do you want all your photos on CD? do you want an album or photo book? or do you just want prints? remember the more you want the more expensive the package will be.
Styles - Each photographer has their own style, study the photos and get to know the feel of the photos. Will they capture the day just as you want? Please see the styles page.
Do your homework - Now that you have established how much you are willing to pay and what you want from your photographer it is time to start looking. Google is your friend here and doing a search will quickly show you what is available. Ask your friends as they might know someone, personal recommendations are very useful. Keep a record of the packages and prices you find so you can compare. Don't be afraid to contact the photographer to see if they can do what you want if you don't see quite what you are after.
Book a 1 to 1 appointment - If possible meet up with your photographer at least once before the wedding this helps build your confidence in the photographer and helps you relax in their presence. A pre wedding shoot helps settle the nerves.
Book Early - Saves you disappointment.
You need to be happy with the photographer and their ability and remember a happy and relaxed bride always shows through in the photographs.
Phil