There is a photographer who is “just right” for you. Perhaps you know him or her already, and regard him or her as a trusted member of your circle of friends or acquaintances. Or, perhaps you haven’t found him or her yet – but you intend to start looking “soon.”
Too many Brides wait until their wedding date is dangerously close before they are compelled to begin their search for a photographer. They forget that the stress of finding their perfect photographer would not have become a crisis if they had begun their search much earlier.
So, if you have your wedding date but you haven’t chosen your wedding photographer, here are three simple suggestions to help you select the one that is perfect for you.
1. Ask recently married friends and family members about their photographer. A great place to start is with a good recommendation and no better way to find out which ones to avoid.
2. Start calling photographers early! Good photographers fill their calendar up to a year in advance, especially for the popular wedding months. Photographers that are in high demand can be booked two years in advance.
3. Meet a few photographers, if you wish, before you make your choice – because mutual confidence is an important factor in this or any relationship. You are looking for one that you feel will take good care of your family and friends. If you feel you could become friends with this person, chances are you hit on a winner.
Once you have made your selection, don’t hesitate to talk things out frankly with your photographer – including your expectations and preferences. Your photographer will be able to tell you what is a realistic expectation and what isn’t. For instance, if you are planning an evening wedding and you have your heart set on beautiful outdoor portraits with your groom - but you don’t want to see each other before the ceremony - there has to be a discussion with your photographer about what is reasonable for that time of day.
Don’t forget to discuss fees. In establishing a sound relationship with your photographer, there should be no hesitancy in discussing fees...mutual understanding of the economics of wedding photography is most important and I encourage both bride and photographer to develop such an understanding. This prevents any surprises after the fact. Let’s face it, wedding photography fees are not inexpensive even if they do run the price gamut. You need to know what you are getting for your investment.
Keep in touch with your photographer. You don’t need to call on a daily basis but you do need to keep him or her “in the loop” so he or she is aware of the important details of your special day as they develop and how best to plan for them. Be especially sure to inform him or her of any changes. You should also be able to call upon your photographer for advice and to use him or her as a resource. Experienced photographers have seen many weddings and therefore many solutions to different wedding day challenges. Finally, you should approach him or her with any questions or concerns.
Remember, your photographer is capable of either helping you have the wedding day of your dreams or turning your day into a wedding nightmare. Take the time to choose one that is right for you. Happy planning!
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