A Guide on How to Find the Perfect Wedding Photographer
Selecting the perfect wedding photographer is a pivotal decision that will shape the way you cherish the memories of your special day for a lifetime. Here are some tips on choosing the best wedding photographer for you:
1. Before beginning your search for a photographer, it is essential to establish your expectations and priorities.
Setting a clear budget range is important, as it helps determine which photographers are within your financial means. Keep in mind that photographers offering services under $1000 might have limited experience, leading to potential inconsistencies in lighting, editing, or an oversight of significant moments. It's important to weigh these factors carefully when making your decision, but understandable when trying to plan a wedding on a budget.
Creating a simple sketch of your wedding day schedule can provide you with an estimate of the photography coverage required. A typical wedding timeline might include (give or take, your wedding is customized to you of course):
Getting Ready (makeup/hair)
Putting on the dress or suit, accessories and shoes
Dress reveal with wedding party or family
First Look or Touch
Bridal Party Photos (before or after Ceremony)
Ceremony
Family Photos (before or after Ceremony)
Bride/Groom Photos
Cocktail Hour
Dinner
Cake Cutting
Special Dances
Games - shoe game, bouquet toss, garter toss
Send off/Grand Exit
Of course this will be further refined with your vendors. However, it is beneficial to outline your key preferences for your photographer and establish a rough schedule for the photography coverage on the day. Are you envisioning a comprehensive 12-hour timeline capturing all moments, or do you lean towards minimizing the getting ready shots, preferring to start coverage an hour before the ceremony begins?
Lastly, go through Pinterest and search ‘wedding photography’. Take some time to Pin a few photos. Pay attention and identify any patterns. Are you drawn to a particular editing style - dark and moody, light and airy, rich and bold? Are you drawn to posed and dramatic, playful and candid, a mix of both?
2. Now that you’ve identified your budget range, estimated coverage needs, and desired photography styles, start searching for your wedding photographer. Utilize Google, Pinterest, Facebook or Instagram. Ask family and friends for referrals. Attend local bridal shows or expos.
3. Once you’ve narrowed your options down to a few potential candidates, ask these photographers for full wedding day galleries. This process will provide you with an opportunity to truly immerse yourself in what your wedding day might be like through their unique perspective. Your reactions and emotions while browsing through these galleries will offer valuable insights into how you might anticipate feeling upon receiving your own personalized gallery after the wedding day. Visit my portfolio here, or message me today to see a full wedding day gallery.
4. Also get a clear understanding on what is all included in their wedding photography packages. Many wedding photographers offer complimentary or discounted engagement sessions, bridal sessions, or boudoir sessions. Inquire on what photo delivery looks like - what format do you receive photos and how long after the wedding? How many photographers are included and how much does it cost to add additional coverage in hours or shooters? Check out the investment page to see what’s all included in wedding photography packages with Deerfoot Thomas Photography.
5. Before fully booking, I find it so important to call or meet your photographer to make sure you actually vibe with them and can spend a whole day (YOUR WEDDING DAY) with them. This is so huge, because each guest and vendor in attendance can have an impact on how you experience and remember your wedding day for years to come. Reach out to me today to schedule a consultation.
By following these tips, you can find a wedding photographer who will beautifully capture the essence of your special day.
