How To Choose

What To Look For In Selecting A Wedding Photographer

Experience - Does the photographer have a "full-time" studio. Because of our new digital age, everyone is a photographer. BUT most people are not professional full-time photographers. Your photographer should be able to guide you through every step of your wedding day and organize the entire photo event for you. This is only the beginning. Your photographer must be experienced to be able to complete the "entire" job with professional results. YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR. Don't skimp on the photography. It will be the most valuable memory of your wedding day.

Credentials - Is the photographer professionally trained? If so, where did he get his education? Does the photographer belong to any professional organizations? Check for certification.

Photographic Style - Ask to see the photographers portfolio. Photojournalistic, formal, classic, candid, color, black and white, sepia, spot coloring are different styles offered today. Make sure you see them all.

Truth in Advertising - Is this the photographer that will be photographing your wedding or will they send in whomever is available. Don't be shocked, this happens more often than you can imagine. Be certain that you know which photographer is going to be there and that you see HIS/HER work and meet with that individually face to face.

What if He/She gets sick? - Couples get so caught up in the moment, that they forget to ask the "what if" questions. You should know what would happen if your photographer gets sick or something drastic happens. While you are at, it ask the photographer if he or she drinks at a wedding.

Personality - Is the photographer that you meet someone that you can get along with? Is the "chemistry" there? All said and done, you will spend more time with your photographer than anyone else. Long after the wedding is over you will still be interacting with this person. It is SO VERY IMPORTANT that you like this person. Your photographer can make or break those precious wedding memories.

Appearance - Ask the photographer how he/she intends to dress. Is this person well groomed?

Price Range - Although, the last thing you want to do is shop by price, is this person within your budget? If not, is he or she worth the price difference? Make sure you understand what everything costs, including reprints and albums.

Delivery - How long does it take to get your original images (proofs) back, your finished album, your bridal portrait, etc.?

Packages/Ala Carte - Whether it's ala carte or a package, do you understand what you are getting? Is there any room for changes and will it cost to do so? Sometimes the packages are fixed, sometimes they can be customized, in any case, ask. How much time will he/she spend? What if you need more time? Make sure that you know what's coming.

Contract - Do you understand the contract? Is it fair? Is everything spelled out? When it comes down to going to court, only what is WRITTEN really counts, not what was promised. Make sure that you have no doubts before signing. Read it ALL.

What about deposits and payments? What does it say about cancellations and the photographer not being there? If the photographer protests, ask him why? This is one area NOT to take lightly. You could be disappointed for a long time.

References - A personal reference is always the best and people love to talk. Get a list of references from the photographer and check them out personally. A photographer who doesn't have references or is afraid to give them to you may not be the person that you need to hire.