Thursday, April 14, 2011

Wedding Photography & Wedding Photographers

When you are searching for a wedding photographer for your special day, you need to find a special someone who can capture your memories. For almost every couple, wedding pictures are the most important reminder of their perfect day, so be sure that the photographer you choose will create the wedding pictures that you will cherish years after the wedding is over.

Begin your search by talking to other couples that have recently gotten married. Other couples who have worked with a photographer in the past are often happy to share their experiences with you, whether they are good or bad. If possible, ask to see pictures from their wedding. If you are working or visiting somewhere and you spot a particularly lovely photograph on someone’s desk, stop and ask about the photographer. Positive recommendations from friends and family will give you a good idea of what to expect when you sit down with a potential one for you.

For each photographer you are thinking about, visit their website address. Look at the online portfolio, and pay attention to the quality of the photos. Experienced photographers will offer a portfolio of their work, and you can look at the pictures and see if you make a connection with the work. Does the photographer offer creative settings and photos that make you excited to see more? Does the he or she include pictures of the wedding guests? Narrow down your list of photographers by focusing on the ones that feel right to you.

After you have checked out the websites of photographers you are considering, contact each one by phone or email. Ensure that photographers will be available on your big day, ask if they have specialties, and get an estimate of the cost of services and what is included in the price. Think about how you feel about the photographer- is she easy to talk to and willing to include your ideas? If you have a good experience with the photographer by phone or email, you will likely have a positive experience when you meet to discuss details of your wedding day photos.

By this time, you should have just a few photographers left to consider. Set up meetings with all available photographers who remain on your list, and include everyone who will either be paying or who will work closely with the photographer such as parents or a wedding planner/consultant. Make a list of questions to ask before you go, and make notes during the meeting. The more questions you ask at the first meeting, the more confident you will feel on the day of your wedding. If you need some ideas, here are some questions you may want to ask:

Will I choose my photos by looking at electronic proofs, traditional contact sheets, online galleries, or other options?

  • Will you help me make my final photo selections?
  • Can my friends and family order copies of photos from you, and can they view proofs?
  • How much of the wedding will you cover? (Ceremony, reception, preparations, or all of these?)
  • How much do prints of different sizes cost? What formats do you offer? (Albums, folios, enlargements, thank you cards, wedding notices, etc?)
  • How long after the wedding can I view proofs or pick up prints?
  • What will you do at my wedding and reception to create unique photo opportunities?
  • What is your payment policy and what forms of payment do you accept?
  • Do you offer a guarantee on your services or the photograph prints themselves?

Think about what is most important to you, and ask questions about those things. A professional wedding photographer in Perth will explain their services and answer questions you may have. A majority of photographers offer packages that include prints so you are clear about what you will get for the fee.



Once you have finalised your list of candidates, ask the photographer to show you a set of photos from a single wedding. This will give you an idea of what to expect to from the photos of your own wedding. As you look at the pictures, consider whether they show you everything you would want to see at your wedding. You should see a collection of natural looking photos that show the couples at their best. By now, you should know which photographer is right for you. Photographers are often booked well in advance of your wedding date, so you will need to commit to a specific photographer as soon as possible.

Ask the photographer about contingencies for last minute wedding changes and cancellations. When you are sure you have found the right photographer at the right price for you, make an agreement and then relax. You have just made a decision that will ensure you have memories of your special day that will last a lifetime.

No comments: