The beginning of the rest of our lives...
"They did an awesome job...I was very happy we chose them to be our photographers!!"I'm sure you've heard it many times before but once your wedding day is done and your guests have departed, and the flowers have withered – your pictures will be what remain. So while you're putting so much time and energy into planning your perfect wedding, don't skimp on selecting your wedding photographer. We know there are literally hundreds of wedding photographers in NW Ohio and SE Michigan – so how do you know which one is right for you?
Here are some keys points to consider when choosing your photographer:
· Portfolio – Take time to review their portfolio and actually see pictures from another couple's wedding day. You can typically view portfolios on a photographer's website or simply ask to see a recent album if meeting them in person.
· Experience – Past experience is very important. Do they have testimonials from previous couples? Have they been in the profession for one, five or ten years? Also be aware if they book too many weddings. Some wedding photographers boast of hundreds of weddings in a single year and while the experience is great this may mean they don't always have enough time to build relationships with their clients or time to edit photographs correctly. This may even mean they outsource some weddings to other photographers.
· Work direct– Always try to work directly with the wedding photographers who will be responsible for photographing your big day. This way you know you aren't paying a middleman when hiring a photographer so that you get the best price available. It is also much easier to build a good relationship with a photographer if you actually spend some time with them before the wedding day. Many photographers will include engagement sessions for free prior to your wedding day, which is a great way to build a relationship with a photographer.
· Number of photographers – Does your wedding photographer have an assistant or do you have to pay extra for more than one photographer? Some photographers have back-ups in place or will even ask you to pay extra for a second photographer. However, some companies actually have assistants or second photographers already included in the price of the wedding package. Make sure you are comparing apples to apples when it comes to pricing and available packages.
· Plan B for weather – While outside wedding photographs give you so much versatility, make sure your wedding photographer has options available if the weather doesn't cooperate. Ask if a photographer has an in-house studio or other location available to shoot your wedding portraits in case of inclement weather.
· Bargains or discounts – While everyone likes a good deal, don't let the good bargain be the only deciding factor. Now, if they are giving discounts for Friday weddings or free engagement photographs, take some time to consider them. However, make sure they are a good fit for you as well and that you will enjoy working with them. Remember, you only get one shot at your wedding day portraits and you don't want an unbelievable bargain to haunt you for the rest of your life.
· Compare photographers – Take a few weeks to research photographers in your area. We recommend that you meet and speak with no less than three photographers. This will help you get a better idea for the similarities and differences in photography methods, pricing, package specials and personalities.
While these are just a few tips in choosing your wedding photographer, we remind you that planning your wedding should be fun so hire florists, bakers and photographers that you like. This will make for a more enjoyable planning experience and a more relaxed wedding day.
