HOW TO FIND A GOOD WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
Beauty can be seen in all things, seeing and composing the beauty is what separates the snapshot from a photograph…
This simple guide can act as a check list to finding a good wedding photographer.
Choose a style:
This simply refers to the type of images that usually appeal to you. Good sources for this could be Instagram feeds and Pinterest. Make note of the type of images you like and what you love about them. Try to narrow it down to one or two visual styles. When searching for a good wedding photographer, remember there are photographers with different styles, so now that you know what you are looking for, focus on photographers that specialize in your preferred style. Remember one style of photography does not do a justice to your wedding memories.
At Global Photography we believe in not only one particular style of photography but giving our clients a variety of different styles from Candid, photo journalistic, casual formal, fun, emotional, storytelling and artistic.
Do your research:
To choose a photographer, browse local listings, read reviews from newlyweds. Review photographers’ websites for images of weddings they have shot to understand their style and ability to capture the special moments. Check their social media to understand how they engage with their clients/followers. Make sure the photographer of your choice is licensed with local and federal agencies for your safety.
Meet in person:
When you find a good wedding photographer you like who happens to be available on your wedding day, send an introductory email detailing your vision for your special day as well as some images from your earlier research so that they get an idea of the style you like. Set up a physical meeting at their studio where you can touch and see the quality of the products they offer and NOT a coffee house. It’s a good time to go over your requirements, expectations and see if your personalities match. It is in your best interest to meet with the photographer that will be photographing your full events and not some freelance photographer whom you have never met or seen. A lot of studios that do multiple events on one day tend to send freelance or staff photographers. If the photographer you prefer is not available, you can ask them for a recommendation.
Ask for previous work:
Ask to see complete albums of previous weddings. Look for weddings in a similar setting to yours. Be sure they are showing you their own work and not a company portfolio.
Rights and packages:
Photographers own the rights to their images, even the ones of you. Before you hire a photographer, ask about the limitations of this. Discuss different price packages and what they entail to be sure you choose what’s best for you. Ask about turnaround time after the wedding, number of images to expect, insurance and other details.
When you’ve found a good wedding photographer that satisfies every point above, go ahead and hire them. An additional tip will be to test run with an engagement shoot. This allows you to work together before the big day and perfect expectations.
Experienced good photographers tend to get booked up fast so once you have set your mind on the photographer of your choice you should reserve their services.