Choosing the Right Photographer

Don’t err on the side of politeness… or economy... when friends or relatives volunteer to take your wedding photographs. Get a professional, one who thoroughly understands lighting techniques and who is skilled at creatively capturing the tender, joyous and humorous moments of your wedding and reception on him.
Interview photographers early, at least six to twelve months in advance. Visit their studios, review their portfolios, and talk about the pictures you envision of your wedding. Be sure to inquire about special effect photography and decide if YOU want it included in your wedding portfolio.
Determine your photography budget clearly at this meeting. Don’t forget to allow for additional prints you might want to give as gifts later. Agree on a firm figure for both the deposit and the final payments; pay both promptly.
Discuss with your photographer the type of wedding you’re planning. Include the location and time of both the ceremony and reception. Be sure the photographer reviews considerations regarding the lighting. Some churches do not allow extraneous lighting during the ceremony.
You will come up against one photographic dilemma. When should the formal portraits be taken? After the ceremony is the traditional time, but many photographers feel that there is not enough time between ceremony and reception to allow for all group pictures plus the beautiful, romantic shots which you will surely wish to have. Besides, this is the time you want to spend with your guests. Taking all formal groupings before the ceremony seems to be a better choice when a large, formal wedding party is involved. This allows time after the ceremony for more relaxed photos with family and friends in attendance. Discuss this question thoroughly with your fiancé and your photographer to understand everyone’s preferences. Considering your wedding day schedule and the size of the wedding party, the three of you will reach the right decision about the best time for this important photographic session.
If your wedding party is large, or you have large families, you may want to appoint a photographic assistant. They should know everyone in your family by sight and be able to assist the photographer by making sure all essential family groupings are taken. Don’t forget to inform your photographer of any sensitive situations in your respective families, such as recently deceased grandparents, divorced parents, stepparents, etc.
The photography contract is a complex one. Be sure you understand exactly the quantity and size of the prints you will be buying, when proofs will be available, the type of proofs provided, when the finished work will be ready, and how long the negatives will be kept in the photographer’s filing system.
Once you’re satisfied that you have conveyed all your wishes to the photographer, relax and let him/her fulfill those wishes. The result will be an album that genuinely reflects the love and happiness you and your families share on your wedding day.

Choose your professional photographer carefully, because this is the person who will record the special moments and events of one of the most exciting days of your life. In order to be well informed about the service and comparable costs, here are items to discuss with each photographer interviewed:

• Price is not the most important item. Look for quality and creativity.

• Confirm the name of the photographer who will be assigned to you. Ask to see samples of his work, and decide if the quality and style of this person is suitable and appealing to you.

• Do you prefer candid or posed shots? Communicate your preferences to the photographer.

• Will formal photographs be taken before or after the ceremony? Does the photographer agree w your decision?

• How long will the photographer stay at the reception?

• Ask for references; call several.

•  Find out exactly what is included in the price quoted. Get a detailed breakdown in writing.

• Who will own the proofs and negatives? How long will they be kept on file?

• What are the costs for extra photos? Does the price include a finished album?

•  Is there a charge for cancellation? What is the payment schedule?

Your photographer can be a source of general wedding information and helpful ideas. Be sure to choose someone that you are personally comfortable with so that you will enjoy working together to capture memories of this day to treasure forever.

Reference: The Wedding Guide

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