Your wedding is one of the most important days of your life. You’ve put a lot of time and effort (and money!) into making sure it’s everything you ever dreamed it would be, so of course you want to savour every moment.
You’ll look back on this day for years to come, so it’s important that you find the right photographer who you can trust to capture your day, exactly as you remember it.
But with so many photographers out there, how do you choose?
With so many things to organise in the run-up to the big day; from thinking of wedding reception ideas, to choosing the perfect dress, it can all feel a little overwhelming, so we’ve put together a few ideas of the kinds of questions to ask a wedding photographer, so that you know you’re finding exactly the right person for you on your special day.
Tips For Choosing A Wedding Photographer
Do your research; check out their website and social media and read their reviews. The main thing at this point is that you like the look and feel of their photos, but you also need to get on with them.
The more comfortable you feel around them, the more easily you’ll be able to communicate with them about what you want, and the photos will look natural and relaxed.
Once you’ve narrowed it down you can start asking the important questions.
So, what should you ask your wedding photographer?
The Basics
- Is your date available and if so, how far in advance do you need to book them?
- Will it be them taking the photographs or will they also have an assistant with them?
- Have they done a similar size/style wedding to yours before?
- Have they done a wedding at your venue? If not, will they go and have a look around beforehand?
Style
- How would they describe their style of photography? E.g. is it quite formal and posed? Or natural and candid? Do you want something traditional, or a bit more quirky?
- How do they work when they photograph a wedding? Are they the kind of photographer who blends in with the guests, taking natural shots as they happen? Or will they take charge and set up shots? Maybe they’re a mix of both, but this is something to agree on before the big day.
- Can you request certain shots?
Logistics
- What equipment will they be using? Do they shoot in digital format or film? And do they have backup equipment?
- Are they comfortable shooting both inside and outside?
- What time will they arrive?
- Have they got a set finish time? Is there an additional charge for staying longer than expected?
- Do they have a backup plan/photographer for if they’re ill or if there’s an emergency?
- How soon will you get the proofs afterwards? Will they be available online, as prints or on a memory stick?
- Do they have camera insurance that includes public liability?
- Who has the rights to the images? Will you be able to post them online?
Money
- How much is the deposit and when do they want it?
- Do they do different packages?
- Can you pay in instalments?
- What’s their cancellation/refund policy?
- Does the fee include any corrective services, re-touching etc?
- Does the price include an album?
- Are there any additional costs? E.g. travel costs?
What To Ask Yourself
As well as all of the practical things that need to be right when choosing a photographer, you also need to trust your instincts, so ask yourself:
- Do you feel at ease with them? Whoever you choose will be a huge part of your day and be around you when you’re feeling nervous/excited/emotional/stressed, so you need to feel comfortable having this person around.
- Do you feel they communicate well? There may be last-minute issues on the actual day, and these need to be sorted out as quickly and as smoothly as possible. Having someone who can communicate well will help this.
- Do you feel they listen to you and address any concerns?
Choosing a wedding photographer is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning your wedding; these photos will stay with you long after your big day. As with any part of the wedding planning process, with a bit of research and the right questions you’ll soon find the right fit for you. For example, read our blog for advice on questions to ask your wedding venue, or get some inspiration for back garden wedding ideas if you feel like doing something a bit different.
While wedding insurance might be quite far down your list of priorities when planning your wedding, and nobody likes to think about what could go wrong, it’s also a nice feeling to know that you have the peace of mind that comes with it. Find out more by reading 5 reasons to get wedding insurance.
Take a look at our website today and find out how you can find a policy that fits you as well as your wedding dress, and get a free, no-strings quote.
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