Your wedding photographer can make or break you, figuratively and financially. It is so important to find one that you admire, and know will make your photos shine. It is also very important to stay within budget.
Make sure your photographer has wedding experience by reviewing their portfolios and websites; find what you like and what you don’t. If the photographer has the right price and you click well with them, express your likes and dislikes. Write a list of pictures that you want to make sure you have, and make sure the photographer knows and can do this. Make sure you interview several photographers, and research as many in your area as possible. Every photographer has a different style some you will like, some you wont, some you will love but cannot afford, but there is a middle ground, if you want to assure you find it you need to do the research. Make sure you see a website and a portfolio from the photographer before you hire him/her to reassure that you like their style.
Money saving tip: photography students and new graduates are looking to gain experience at low cost, some may even do it for free having you pay only the cost of their resources. Students and new photographers take some amazing photos; you are helping them gain experience and a name and they are helping you save money, it’s a win win situation. Look for local photography schools or colleges with photo departments, and send a flyer, or call the department directly. You may also consider putting a picture package on your wedding registry (not one with an extreme price of course).
Comments
I agree with your comments on student photographers doing weddings. When you do take this approach, do some homework. Make sure the photographer has back up equipment, camera body, batteries, flash, cables and the like. Who will fill in if they get sick. Do they have reliable transportation?
Make sure you document who's doing what, delivering what and when. Students are simply that, students, not business people. Now this is not to say that students won't think this way, but don't expect all business aspects will be addressed.
Give the student plenty of latitude to work in an environment that may be new to them. And remember, they may miss a shot you're looking for. They are of course students, not professionals - yet. And lastly, be a good consumer. You get what you pay for!
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!