- James Matthews
How Do I Find the Perfect Wedding Photographer?
Wedding photography is a huge responsibility, and choosing which one to pursue can be daunting. To help you narrow your options, we’ve compiled this handy guide for finding the perfect wedding photographer.
How Do I Find the Perfect Wedding Photographer?
Finding a wedding photographer can be daunting, but with some research, you can find the right fit for your family and your budget. Start with these questions.
1. What are your priorities? Do you want an artistic photographer or someone who will document your day with professional and beautiful photos?
2. How do you envision your wedding day? If you’re looking for a more natural personal approach, a photographer specialising in documentary photography might be your best option.
3. How much money do you have? Your budget will play a major role in how many photographers you can hire, and you should start with an estimate of your wedding budget before you begin. As a guide, aim for between 5-10% of your total wedding budget.
4. How large is your guest list? If you’re planning on having an open bar or a DJ, you might be able to hire a photographer for the entire event.
5. Where are you getting married? Some photographers specialise in weddings at specific venues, so finding someone to travel with you might be important for a destination wedding.
6. What is your vision for your wedding? Some couples know what they want from their wedding photos and are willing to pay more for the photographer who shares that vision. Others might prefer the freedom to decide, and they’ll work with a photographer willing to collaborate.
7. Who are you friends with? If you know people who have had good experiences with a particular photographer, ask them for recommendations. You can also check out the photographer’s portfolio online and ensure they have the right equipment for your venue.
8. Is there anything else you want to know about the photographer? Ask if they’re experienced in taking family portraits or can offer a discount for a second photographer to help with the guest count.
9. Are you looking for someone who offers engagement or bridal sessions? If so, you can save money by skipping the photographer’s standard rate for a wedding session.
10. Do you need an on-site photographer? If you’re not looking for a full-time photographer, you might be able to hire someone to come in on the morning of the wedding and then stay with you throughout the day.
11. Do you want the photographer to participate in the wedding? If you want to hire a photographer to help you plan your big day, you might opt for a professional wedding photographer.
12. How do you feel about the photographer’s work? You don’t necessarily need to see a photo shoot to know if a photographer is a good fit, but you should be able to see some work samples.
13. How long has the photographer been in business? A reputable photographer will have been in the industry for a while, and you can find their portfolio online.
14. Do you want a single photographer or a team? A single Photographer is the most popular choice and will fit most wedding planning budgets.
Once you have answered the questions, you can establish the photographer you need to capture your wedding day.
