Point and Shoot
Tips for picking a wedding photographer
By Sara Doerrier
August 8, 2011
Shopping for a wedding photographer isn't like shopping for a dress or flowers. You won't be able to see the finished product until the wedding is over. For many, price is a factor, but remember, in some instances you get what you pay for.
Here are some tips to help pick a photographer that is right for you.
Start Searching Immediately
Good Wedding photographers are booked solid for sometimes up to a year in advance. This should be one of the first things you do when you start planning your wedding.
Word of Mouth
This is one of the best ways to help find a photographer. Start asking friends or relatives if they know anyone that they could recommend. This will also help you compile a list and you will be able to select from a few options.
Wedding Professionals
Other than your friends and family, ask wedding planners, caters, bakers, florists and limo drivers if they recommend photographers. Inside professionals know inside professionals.
Wedding Photo Samples
Once you have a list, check out their samples online. This is a great way to start the process of elimination. Do they have what you are looking for and meet your style? How well do they perform in settings/environments? For example, your beach wedding will need a photographer that has a strong outdoor sense.
Gauge Their Professionalism
Not all photographers are created equally. A seasoned professional with a solid background may be the obvious choice for many. Having such experience will flow nicely as the photographer will know how to act during the ceremony and reception. This is not to say that a photographer with less experience is not a viable candidate.
Equipment
You may not know so much about his/her equipment but whether you want film or digital is an important choice. Both produce high quality but it all comes down to the preference of the photographer and you. Digital is easier to manipulate and produce. Film is higher quality if enlarged. Make sure you understand what kind of equipment he/she uses in order to better understand the kind of quality you are getting.
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