As many of you brides-to-be begin to plan for your wedding day, there are a few important decisions to be made. Wedding dress, groom's tux, bridal party attire, wedding rings, location of the wedding, invitations, flowers, and photography to just name a few. I always encourage brides who come to me seeking a photographer to meet with a few other photographers before making a final decision. Although I would be completely honored to be such an important part of any wedding, it is far more important to be sure that I am best suited for the couple. There are several factors to consider when choosing the right photographer for your wedding day.
Information Source: www.frugalbride.com/choosingphoto.html
Important Things To Consider When Choosing a Wedding Photographer
Experience Level - Has this person photographed other weddings? Does he/she do this for a living or for fun?
Photographic Style - Are the images that you are shown, what you would like to see? There are "buzz" words flying about everywhere about photojournalism, formal, classic candid, and so on. Do you want a mixture of black and white or only colour photos?
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.
Personality - Is the photographer that you meet someone that you can get along with? Is the "chemistry" there?
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 proofs back, thank you cards, your finished album, your bridal portrait, etc.?
Offering - Whether it's a la 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 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.
