Choosing the right wedding photographer is a pivotal decision in the wedding planning process. The person behind the lens will be responsible for capturing the cherished moments that will become lasting memories of your special day.
Start by going through an Instagram tag used for photographers in your area (#DCWeddingPhotographer) and look at what you like and don’t like or go through Google (type DC Wedding Photographer for example), and start looking at 20-40 photography websites and bookmark between 5 and 10.
Once you’ve made your top choices, it’s time to review each photographer. To help you make an informed choice, here’s a comprehensive guide on what to look for when hiring a wedding photographer.
Portfolio and Style
Examine the photographer’s portfolio to understand their style and approach. Every photographer has a unique visual signature. Whether it’s a preference for candid shots, a knack for storytelling, or a focus on classic elegance or editorial style, ensure their style aligns with your vision for your wedding photos. The best way to understand what you like is to ask the photographer to provide examples of full wedding albums they’ve captured and ask them how would they describe their photography style.
If you’ve browsed my portfolio, you know I describe my style as documentary, creative, and photojournalistic. However, my editing style is true-to-life. But you might like moody or light and airy better.
Most of my couples ask me about posing. So look at their portfolio and see if the couple looks posed or if they are more candid portraits. Are they more editorial or natural, serious or smiling? Were there any poses that we just really didn’t like? If you prefer natural and candid poses, you probably like the documentary style better.
Experience and Expertise
Experience matters in wedding photography. A seasoned photographer understands the ebb and flow of a wedding day, anticipating key moments and navigating various lighting conditions. Check their portfolio for evidence of their ability to capture both planned and spontaneous moments.
You need to know how many weddings they’ve photographed, or you can ask them to share any experiences where things didn’t go as planned, and how they’ve handled them.
Client Reviews and Testimonials
Reviews and testimonials from previous clients provide insights into a photographer’s professionalism, reliability, and the overall experience they offer. Be careful with newer photographers as we hear about a vendor going out of business all the time. Find established photographers in your area but be mindful that if you are looking for someone who wants to build their portfolio, you might find yourself without any great photos or worse, without a photographer for your big day.
So check online platforms and their website. Google reviews are also a great way to get to know your potential wedding photographer! Here is my link if you want to check what my past couples have said about me.
Packages and Pricing
Ask questions to understand the photographer’s pricing structure and the services included in their packages. Try to clarify with them any additional costs, such as travel fees or extra hours. During your call with the photographer, you can ask what is included in their standard wedding photography package (8 hours, travel fee, and a number of edited images for example). This can help you compare each photographer and see which one offers the best package for your needs and budget. If you like two photographers’ styles, that can help you pick one over another.
Availability and Schedule
Confirm the photographer’s availability on your wedding date and discuss the timeline for the day. A photographer who understands and respects your schedule contributes to a seamless and stress-free experience. Even if you don’t have a real idea of how your day will be, you can ask them how they will help you with your photography timeline for the day based on their experience.
Communication and Collaboration
Effective communication is key. A photographer who listens to your vision, answers your questions promptly, and collaborates with you is likely to be a valuable partner in capturing your wedding day. You can ask them how they typically communicate with clients throughout the planning process. I, personally, ask my couples how THEY prefer to get in touch with me. I personalize my couple’s experience so they feel they can just relax.
Choosing a wedding photographer is not just about the quality of their work but also about finding someone who resonates with your vision and values. Through thoughtful consideration of their portfolio, experience, reviews, pricing, availability, and communication style, you can make an informed decision and ensure that the person behind the lens becomes a trusted collaborator in crafting the visual story of your wedding day. If you’d like to get in touch with me, shoot me an email through my contact page.
