How to Choose Your Wedding Photographer

Hello, my name is Cynthia Bee and I am today’s guest blogger.  I run Photogs United, a social networking site for photographers.  I also blog about life, business, and doing it all for the win on my blog at cynthiabee.com.

Long after the petals from your gorgeous bouquet have all dried out, promises made and the buzz of happy guests fade to a silence, what will truly remain are you, the love of your life, and the memories that you have made together.  I know that sounds cheesy, but it’s true!  I think Nicholas Sparks would agree.

Choosing the right wedding photographer is something that you will never regret.  No doubt that you already know how important photography is in the scope of your wedding details; after-all, photos are the means by which we live and relive important moments.  Your photographer’s style, angle, and perspective is a key facet to that experience. I’ve put together just a few questions to ask yourself (yes, you can talk to yourself– I won’t judge!) to ensure that you pick the photographer that is right for you and that you get the most for your money.

1. Can I comfortably afford this photographer?

Yes, not all of us can be Katie Holmes and marry the dashing Tom Cruise with a $2 million wedding budget.  Wedding photography packages vary in price, and each photographer has his or her own way of handling this aspect. Photographers can even customize a more affordable package to your liking or what’s necessary for your wedding. This can greatly reduce costs.  If you don’t need it all, why pay for it all?  Bottom line: ask questions.  Think it through.  Make sure you can comfortably afford the photographer you choose.

2. Do I connect well with them?
Arrange a preliminary meeting with your photographer, and be yourself.  Good chemistry with the person who will be documenting the single most important day of your life is something that you want to establish.  After all, they will most likely be popping up at random instances , or posing you.  Make sure you’re comfortable and can be yourself around them.  If you’re relaxed around your photographer, it will show in your images and cause your day to run by smoothly.

3. Do I LOVE this photographer’s style?
Do you want to be posed, captured in candid moments, or both?  Decide and communicate with your photographer. Every artist has his or her own way of interpreting events.  You’ll know you’ve found the one when you happen to land on the portfolio that has you glued to your monitor, wanting more.  Go with that one.