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For obvious reasons we're a tad biased about this topic... However, we're also just a couple who've been there, newly engaged and ready to plan our wedding, and having no clue whatsoever where to start. It's completely overwhelming. Chances are, you've never planned a wedding before. This is totally new to you, and you're stuck with what feels like an ever-growing to-do list of suppliers to book and decisions to make.
So, from a couple of professional shooters, who live and breathe weddings at this point, here are a few pointers to get you started when it comes to choosing a photographer. (For videographer tips, we'll link a different post at the end).
First up, it's worth remembering that picking the right photographer is a big deal. Bigger than you might have realised. Whoever you choose is going to be with you allllll day, from getting ready, to congratulating you as newly weds, catching all those messy tears, nervous moments, breakdowns and partying. A wedding day carries a heck of a lot of emotions and they're going to be by your side for every single one. That's not a bad thing - in fact, it's a huge plus to have someone experienced along for the ride, who can help keep you calm, talk you through the next steps and match whatever chaotic energy you and your guests are bringing. Your photographer is very much a part of your wedding arsenal. The right person can have a huge impact on how smoothly your day runs, and how much you can actually relax and experience it. That may seem like a lot of pressure (sorry about that) but we promise there are tonnes of amazing photographers out there who are incredibly passionate about what they do and just want you to have the best day imaginable. Now, how to find them...
FIND YOUR STYLE
Typing in 'wedding photographer in x location' into Google is likely to be your first move, and that's great. Have a look at a few websites, look at their work. Screenshot the photos you love, even if you don't understand why you like them in the first place, you didn't like the sound of the photographer themselves or they were way out of your budget. Search for your wedding venue on Instagram and check out their feed along with tagged posts for photographers who've shot there before. Look at wedding hashtags and save the images you like.
Once you're collecting those photos, you should start to see a pattern in the kind of thing you like.
Are shots where the bride and groom are laughing your favourite?
If so, you're looking for a candid photographer. Someone who can capture those gorgeous moments as they happen. The couple aren't looking at the camera, they're not even really aware of it.
Do you prefer artsy shots from cool angles?
If so, you're looking for more of a contemporary photographer. Someone who is creative and can see an empty room and spot a hundred ways to make an image interesting.
Couples that are posed in ways you'd never think to stand?
You need more of an editorial or traditional photographer who can set up beautiful shots and position you exactly as they want to create those pretty, could-be-in-a-magazine photographs.
Images that look totally natural and unposed?
This is more documentary-style, which means your photographer will be taking snapshots of your beautiful day and letting it unfold without interference, It's real and totally 'you'.
Warmer tones in the images or cooler, moodier photographs?
This is an editing preference. A photographer will tend to use the same style in their edits, so if you want colourful shots and bright greens, you can find someone who does this by having a browse through their social media or website portfolio. Or you might prefer more golden, sun-kissed photographs, cool blues, softer styles or darker edits. Or maybe you want true-colour images that appear as if they haven't been edited at all. The possibilities are endless but try and spot a few similar trends in the photographs you've picked to really try and nail down what you both love... and what you hate!
You can use your preferences to narrow down your search further. You can either look at more specific hashtags such as #candidweddingphotographer or add these terms to your online searches for a more specific result. There are also plenty of Facebook groups where you can ask for photographer recommendations whilst making exactly what you're looking for clear, which should help with more accurate responses to make your way through. From there, make a list of any who edit in a style you like, visit their websites and go through the next steps...
WHAT TO CHECK
When looking at a photographer's website there are a few things to check out. They might have a portfolio (a selection of their favourite photographs from weddings they've shot) or examples of their own images dotted about their homepage. These are great to check out and will give you an idea of the kind of photos they produce.
Don't just book a photographer based on their portfolio or Instagram feed though. Hopefully they'll have a link to an example gallery somewhere on their website, or you can ask for one. This will give you a much clearer idea of exactly what you can expect to receive from the photographer after capturing your day.
Another thing to find is their reviews. They might share feedback from recent couples on their website, like we do, or you can find reviews on their Facebook or Google Business pages. Insights from couples who have worked with the photographer are super helpful when narrowing down your list.
Finally, have a look through their social media. If they're posting regularly, it's a good sign that they're active and won't be disappearing off the radar anytime soon (which unfortunately does happen).
THE NON-NEGOTIABLES
As much as we all wish it wasn't a factor, price has to come into your decision. Photographers rates can hugely vary depending on their experience/ packages/ set-up. You can research what an average wedding photographer costs in your area to help give you an idea of what the supplier will cost. Everyone has their own budget when it comes to wedding planning, so you should always stick to your limits and what's feasible for you as a couple. It's worth bearing in mind that your photos (and video, if you want one) are the things most likely to last after your wedding day itself. You'll hopefully be looking back on them for decades to come, letting those snapshots take you right back to that undeniably big moment, over and over again. Like we said at the start, we're totally biased, but we truly believe that your wedding photos are indispensable. When deciding where to scrimp and where to splurge a little bit more, investing in a good photographer/ videographer, who's going to capture your wedding and do all your hard work justice, seems like a no-brainer.
Once you've decided on a budget, you can focus on photographers who are within its limits. Not every photographer will have their prices listed on their website. Some do, some have a 'starting from...' price to give you an idea of cost and some you have to directly enquire with. It might take some time to collate those prices but it's something you can't move forwards with a decision without.
While you're looking at prices, make sure you check out the photographer's packages and carefully review what's included. Some things to check are...
How many photographs will you receive?
How will the photos be delivered - online gallery/ USB/ photo album?
Are there any hidden charges for downloading your photos?
Is there a second shooter included?
What will be captured on the day - do they cover bridal preparations onwards or just from the ceremony, for example?
When will your photographer finish for the day?
Will you get a sneak peek of the photos?
What's their turnaround time?
Are there any extras you can add on?
Also, some photographers offer a half-day package or hourly rate. If you only want a certain section of your day captured, this can be a great way of reducing the cost whilst still getting amazing photographs. It's worth talking things over and deciding what you can and can't compromise on.
On their website/ FAQs there should also be details of how their booking process works, including the amount required for a deposit and when your full payment will be due, which is always good to be aware of.
HAVE A CHAT
This last step is super important, but really simple... Speak to them! Most photographers will offer an initial chat via video call just so you can put a face to a name, ask any questions you might have and get to know them a little bit better. This person is going to be with you all the way through you're wedding - the last thing you want is to feel awkward around them or to worry about how your bridal party, family or guests might be feeling. Just a few minutes of chatting can be enough for you to decide whether they'd be a good fit for you and your day.
If you're feeling a bit anxious about the idea of a video call, first up - it's nothing to worry about. They're not going to be judging you (in fact it's the other way around) and they won't be pressuring you into booking them - or if they try to, just end the call and move on with your search! Secondly, we love when our couples are chilling on the couch in their dressing gowns with a brew when we have those chats. There are zero expectations. Please don't go out of your way to dress up or feel like you need to make any kind of impression. It's all about choosing what's right for you and being comfortable while you do so (and throughout the whole process) is a MUST.
GET THEM BOOKED
Photographers can book up years in advance and often raise their prices regularly too. Most will ask for a deposit to secure your wedding date and they should send over a contract for you to sign (feel free to raise any questions about this with them once you've read through it) during the booking process. Once your booking has been confirmed at their current price, they should respect that for your date itself, so securing them sooner rather than later is definitely a good idea!
Now to find the perfect photographer for you... You've got this!
Amy & Ben xxx
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