A How-to Guide to Choosing the Perfect Wedding Photographer

A ‘How-To’ Guide to Choosing the Perfect Wedding Photographer. Simply follow these three steps brought to you by InFrame Bride Magazine. 

1.     Portfolio.  Investigate portfolios. Flip through the pages of this magazine and make a note of the images that catch your eye. Pay close attention to the mood the images portray and trust your own impressions.  You know what you like; let that be your guide.

Follow-up by perusing the photographers’ websites. View more than one wedding for each photographer (a great photographer will capture inspiring images of every wedding). Keep in mind photographers post their most recent work on their blog. Before moving on, make a list of your top 10 favorite photographers. 

2.     Price.  Decide on your budget.  Your wedding photography is as important as your wedding gown! As a rule of thumb, wedding planners advise spending 20-30% of your total wedding budget on photography. Make it a priority.   Don’t be afraid to make compromises with your wedding budget.  If you are in love with a specific photographer’s work but feel their price is out of reach, be flexible and play with the numbers. Could you cut back on your wedding favors or go with a more cost-friendly flower that is still just as beautiful?   In the end, you won’t regret the results; your wedding memories are priceless, and your images will last a lifetime.  Now, narrow down the list to your top 5 favorite photographers. 

3.     Personality.  Set up appointments.  Meet with your short list of favorite photographers.  Expect that some photographers will want you to come to their studio and others will meet you at a cozy coffee shop or restaurant. Don’t be afraid to ask questions; have a list ready and take notes (We’ve even supplied you with a cheat sheet of questions on the following page). Again, trust your instincts; choose the photographer from whom you get the best vibe and with whom you feel most comfortable.  You want a photographer who is confident and accommodating, but also concerned and enthusiastic.  And, be sure it’s a person whose presence you enjoy.

InFrame Bride: Pick Your Perfect Photographer!  Image by Grand Rapids, MI based photographer Summer Jean.