How to Hire a Wedding Photographer

When all is said and done, after your wedding day is over, what will you have to show for all your wedding planning efforts?  Your wedding photographs!  Therefore, hiring your wedding photographer is a very important decision which should be given the time and consideration it deserves.

One of the first decisions you make after booking your ceremony and receptions sites should be your wedding photographer.  What is your photography budget?  Do you prefer posed traditional-style photography or the more candid photojournalistic style?

Once you determine your photography budget and preferred style, you can begin your search.  Use the phone book, the internet, and wedding publications to get names, numbers, and web addresses.  Check out a photographer’s work online before making an appointment, so you will be familiar with their work before you see them.

Once you meet with the photographer, it is not only important to pay attention to the quality of their work, but also to their personality.  Since they will be with you most of the day, it’s important to find someone you click with.  If you are not hitting it off with your photographer, it will show in the photographs.

Ask if they know your ceremony and receptions sites.  If so, can you see examples of photographs that were taken there?

Become clear on what is included in the wedding photography package.  Some photographers may include albums, prints, slideshows, and other products, while others may only include their time.

Once you hire your photographer, it is important to communicate with them the details of your wedding.  For example, your photographer will need to know if there are shooting restrictions during the ceremony, especially in a place of worship.  Make a list of special photographs that you would like to be taken, like a picture of you and your godmother.

Finally, remember to get a list of print prices and additional album prices.

~ by Iris on August 19, 2007.