HOW TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
So, your wedding planning has officially begun and you’re set on finding that perfect wedding photographer for your big day.
You’ve found a few in your area, potentially stalked their Insta and, so far, you like what you see. But…
How do you know which one is the one?
I’ve got you covered.
Here are my top five things to consider before locking in your dream team -
1 - Know exactly what to look for in their portfolio.
Beyond the pretty pictures, there are few things to keep in mind when making sure your precious memories are in good creative hands.
Is there a good mix of both candid shots and directed images?
Your perfect wedding photographer should ideally be able to capture those candid, spontaneous moments as well as know how to creatively direct you to make the most of every moment. If what you’re seeing in someone’s portfolio is predominately posed with no candid, in-the-moment shots, or vice versa, there’s a chance you’ll feel a few moments are missing when you receive your final gallery.
How would you feel if these were your wedding photos in 5-10 years time?
When looking at a photographer’s portfolio, do the images have that timeless feel and would still leave you in awe in 5 years time, or would they start to feel a little boring once the wedding-high fades away? Keep the long game in mind - visualise yourself sharing these photos with your kids or grandkids, and let that impact your decision.
Have you only seen highlights of their work, or have you looked at more complete galleries with photos taken at every stage of a wedding?
When looking back at your photos, you’re being reminded of your love story as well as the story of your wedding day. Whilst a killer sunset photo might take your breath away, it’s those moments getting ready, sharing words with a parent or entering your reception that will draw your memory back to exactly what you were feeling. So be sure to get the full idea of what your complete gallery would feel like by taking the time to view photos from every stage of the day.
2 - Hear from people who have actually worked with them.
AKA, read the reviews that come straight from the mouths of past clients. Explore their Google and Facebook reviews and pay attention to some of the recurring comments that multiple clients mention.
What imprint are they leaving on their couple’s experience, and that of all the guests that attend?
Is there a focus on both what it was like to work with them as well as the quality of the final photos?
Pay attention to how they made them feel, both in the planning phase and the wedding itself.
3 - Actually meet them in person (or Zoom) to connect in real time.
This is someone who will be sharing in the intimate parts of your big day and telling the story of the love of your life. So knowing what it actually feels like to be in their presence is important if you’re going to be at your most relaxed and at ease when in their company and sharing a laugh or a tear in front of the lens. So reach out, get to know each other, and feel confident that you get along before making your decision.
4 - Make sure they have experience working with people of all ages
If there’s one thing you need your photographer to be good at, it’s being able to build rapport with strangers in a short time period. And not just with you, but with guests of all ages from kids to grandparents. Your people deserve to be treated like absolute gold, and whilst you’re doing your best to say hi to everyone and soaking up the day, your photographer is going to be right beside your loved ones capturing laughs, tears and epic moments.
Having worked in kindergartens before and being a dad myself, I know it takes some extra patience and creativity when working with kids and it pays to be extra accommodating with older families and their needs, so be sure to ask your photographer what their approach is if you’ll have a mix of ages at your wedding.
5 - Professional Planning Support
On top of being incredibly creative, being a wedding photographer requires some serious organisational skills and top notch planning. From setting up lighting where it’s needed well before the shot, to constantly being in the right place at the right time, professional wedding photographers know their timelines down to the minute and make it all look completely effortless. So make sure you get the most from your investment and can tap into their advice around planning out your perfect day. They will also have amazing vendors and connections that they work alongside, so choose someone who can guide you on anything you’re unsure of and help you embrace the joy of your day.
Choosing a wedding photographer is no small decision and it’s my hope that these tips will help ease some of the overwhelm and get you excited for all the creative possibilities ahead! For more planning tips, especially if you’re planning a wedding in the SE QLD or Northern NSW region, download my free guide - The Young Lovers Wedding Planning Guide.
And if you’d love to book me for your upcoming wedding, get in touch here to confirm availability. There’s nothing I’d love more than to help you tell your love story and have a blast at the same time!
Here’s to you, young lovers!
Sean.
