It’s come the time you need a wedding photographer. Unfortunately, it’s not like selecting like for like, so you can't get a price comparison. It’s become a minefield. One wrong move on your part and your photography plans will explode.
No blood and mud. But photographs you are not happy with - and a photographer you didn’t get along with. Usually resulting in hiding your photographs from friends and family. When you should be showing them off.
The only way you can price compare is if you get identical photographers with the same personality, same equipment, and same level of experience. You know that’s not going to happen. But you still price compare.
This is the reason why photographers are not on a price comparison website.
So what are you going to do? You start by knowing what you want, just like looking for a car. There are cheap cars and expensive cars.
Same for pretty much most things. Cheap clothes, expensive clothes. Cheap shoes, expensive shoes. You get the idea.
Cheap photographers may not have experience, back equipment, insurance, specialist computer editing software, etc. But they will be cheap.
But if it’s what you are looking for. Go for it. You may get lucky and have a few good photographs. Just don’t go slagging the poor sole when it backfires on you. It’s what you wanted. So blame only yourself.
So what can you do? Well, let’s look at prices for a full-day photography session.
Around £500
You might know someone with a "good camera". Who usually photographs landscapes or birds on weekends. Often seen carrying a tripod or ladder. Sometimes the nerves kick in, and they get cold feet just before the wedding day and cancel on you at the last minute. You have seen the media posts "let down by my photographer".
Around £1000
Or £999 because it looks better. Usually, they will have a lot of wedding photography experience and enough photography equipment to see him or her out of any problems they may encounter. They will have insurance and qualifications. Most will belong to a reputable photography organisation. They would rather cut a limb off before letting you down. Dedicated to their work and paying bills depends on them photographing.
Above £1000
Pretty much the same as the £1000 photographer, but will give away "free gifts". An album, an engagement session, or some prints or canvas.
So what now? Get off your backside and start with these ten tips for finding the right photographer.
1. Start by researching and looking at different photographers' portfolios online. This will give you an idea of their style and the type of photography they specialise in. You took the time to locate the right venue. Now do the same for a wedding photographer.
2. Consider your budget and determine how much you will spend on a photographer. Wedding photography can vary greatly in price, so it's important to clearly understand your budget before deciding.
3. Reach out to friends, family, or recent brides who have had positive experiences with their wedding photographers. Personal recommendations can be a great way to find a reliable and talented photographer.
4. Meet or phone with potential photographers to discuss your wedding vision and understand their personalities. It's important to feel comfortable and have a good rapport with your photographer, as they will be with you throughout the wedding day.
5. Ask to see full wedding albums or galleries rather than just a selection of their best shots. This will give you a better idea of the photographer's consistency and ability to capture the key moments of a wedding.
6. Inquire about the photographer's experience and qualifications. Are they full-time professionals or part-time photographers? Have they worked at similar venues or in similar conditions as your wedding? These factors can affect their ability to handle different lighting situations and capture the essence of your wedding day.
7. Discuss the photographer's approach to capturing candid moments versus posed shots. It's important to find a photographer who can balance both styles and capture the emotion and authenticity of the day.
8. Ask about their backup plan in case of any unforeseen circumstances or emergencies. Professional photographers should have a backup camera and a plan to ensure that your wedding is properly documented, even in the case of technical difficulties.
9. Review the photographer's contract carefully and ask about any additional costs or fees that may not be included in the initial package. Be clear about what you will receive regarding edited images, prints, and albums.
10. Trust your instincts and choose a photographer whose work and personality align with your vision for your wedding day. Remember, your wedding photos will be cherished memories for years, so choosing a photographer who can capture those moments beautifully is important.
Bonus tip. Always ask to see reviews.
Or book us and save yourself a lot of headaches
