Take a moment to really take in and appreciate this photo. Do you get that immediate feeling of happiness and great energy just looking at it? Call me crazy, but that feeling is what I look for when I look at a prospective preferred photographers portfolio. The bottom line: their photos have to evoke a certain level of emotion while equally capturing the essence of their subjects. In this world of endless filters and trends, it’s not an easy job. It’s even more challenging for clients as they are quickly faced with endless choices of qualified photographers. Simplifying the process comes down to a few key questions:
Is the style of their photography consistent and pleasing to you? There are many different styles of photography and it really comes down to what suits your personal style. Do you want bright, vivid colors? Something more muted? High fashion a la Vogue? Some clients prefer lots of posed out images and utilize their own creative license to get this accomplished with their photographer. On the other side, you have the classic appeal found with a nice balance of posed and non-posed photos. That is commonly referred to as ‘photo journalistic’ style where the photographer captures naturally occurring moments rather than a perfect pose. Whichever style you choose, it’s important to discuss what you are looking for. Rather than making a photographer fit your mold, find one that already exudes everything you have in mind. It needs to already please you as is. You should able to picture yourself in their existing photography without hesitation.
Can you pull these photos out in 20 years and happily show them to friends and family? Seriously, can you? Or are you going to get embarrassed because they were so over the top, you don’t want to show future generations? It sounds odd to say this, but the truth is, there are lots of trends that might seem ‘on trend’ now and ‘what was I thinking’ later. Your photography is an investment in your reputation as you grow older I suppose, ha! I’m joking, sort of.
After meeting with the photographer, did you connect with them? Imagine spending 8+ hours with someone you don’t really know too well and not really having a connection with them. Clearly, that would not be the ideal scenario. Before you sign that contract, make sure you have an in person meeting. Often times these meetings serve as a great way for the photographer to get know your style and energy so the photography reflects that. If you’ve connected to the photographer AND their work, consider them a contender or your final choice!
Sticker shock? Yup, it happens to all of us! Even the most seasoned wedding professionals will find themselves grumbling about how quickly the budget adds up. With all the gorgeous weddings we see in social media, it’s easy to get caught up in dreaming of diamonds draped from the ceiling and you will quickly find yourself pumping the brakes when you see what you can afford. Don’t forget, your photographer is being paid for their skill level and attention to detail. The cliché is ‘you get what you pay for’ so don’t go cheap and I promise you I’ve seen the cheap route leave clients very upset. Photography is an INVESTMENT. No, you won’t get a return in cash, but you can guarantee these will be the only memory you have in print. And paying for a second photographer? I’m a huge fan especially when large bridal parties and tight timelines are involved. I also love that they can divide and conquer duties. A second photographer can capture those ‘stolen moments’ while the main photographer is busy (like your grandparents smooching on the sidelines). It also means that maybe now you can actually make it to your cocktail hour since photos will go quicker. Beyond that, the rate you pay includes time spent prepping for your shoot, on site taking photos, editing afterwards, printing and processing of images, purchasing of those cute props you borrowed, a second photographer and paying Uncle Sam.
And your point is? I always reinforce the importance of high quality photography with all of my clients because I know how significant it is long after the event is over. It is absolutely worth shifting the budget around for or even pushing to save a little extra $$ to get the one you love. Don’t get me wrong, I love candy bars and all those fun little DIY details, but they add up quickly. Plus, it will leave you with something money can’t buy later down the road, gorgeous images of your big day! Photo Credit: Laina Colgan Photography