Choosing a photographer for your wedding can be a daunting task.  It is one of the most important decisions you will make when planning your wedding, and selecting the wrong one for you could leave you bitterly disappointed.

 

Here are some quick tips on how to choose your photographer;

 

Browse the online portfolios of all the photographers in your area

And I mean all of them!  Every photographer has their own style.  It doesn't matter how expensive or highly regarded a photographer is if their images don't match your taste.

 

Create a shortlist and arrange to meet your favourite candidates

After looking through all the photographers' websites you will have a list of several names whose photos wowed you.  Contact these candidates and arrange to meet them.  

 

Make sure you get on with the person and that you like their manner and style.  You will be working with your photographer a lot before and after your wedding - as well as being around them from morning to night on your big day - so you must have a good rapport with them.

 

Ask to see complete examples of their work

Bear in mind that photographers will (generally!) only put their best work on their website.  Ask to view one or more complete wedding sets so you can gain a better understanding of how that photographer's style reflects each part of the day.

 

Consider your budget

The phrase "You get what you pay for..." is often used when talking about photography.  While this has merit in that the more experienced, sought-after photographers can charge a premium, it should not be taken as the rule.  

 

To coin another phrase - "Everyone has to start somewhere".  Less well known photographers may have special deals or lower rates in order to attract clients and build their business and experience. After meeting a candidate and viewing their portfolio, you should have a good idea of the level and quality of service a photographer will offer you.

 

Compare the quotes from your chosen candidates

While it is easy to look at the numbers when comparing quotes, look at the details of what's included in that quote also.  Are there items included that you don't need or want?  Can these be removed or is it a fixed package?  Can you add something that's not listed or offered?

 

Most importantly - does this quote match what you are willing and able to spend?

 

Ask for references

By now you should have narrowed your search down to one or two people you want to hire.  Ask them for references or to see feedback from previous jobs they've completed.  You could also do a search online to see if anyone has posted compliments or problems on review sites or forums.

 

Hire a candidate that you trust

The easiest way for you to be able to relax in your decision is to hire someone you trust completely.  This goes for all the services you use on and in the run-up to the day.  There will be so much going on that the last thing you need to be doing is worrying about the photographs/flowers/chair covers etc.

 

Knowing that your photographer is prepared, understands exactly what you're looking for and has everything in hand will be a massive boost for you - as well as for your photographer.  Knowing that a client has faith in you to do a great job is a huge confidence builder - and we thrive when we are confident.

 

In conclusion

Doing your due diligence at this point and completing these few steps should ensure that you hire a photographer that you are completely confident in.  Once you have made your decision, ensure you continue to work together to come to a mutual understanding about what you expect from your wedding photographs

 

Then relax and enjoy your wedding day in the knowledge that your photographer knows exactly what to do.