Written by Mark Fitzgibbons of Fitzphoto

Choosing a wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions for your special day.  Once you have said “I do,” had your limo ride, and tasted your wedding cake, the photographs will be what remain in the years to come.  There are many criteria for selecting the perfect photographer for your wedding.

Weddings are often times considered the most difficult type of event to photograph.  The sequence of events throughout the day can be hectic and fast-paced.  Most moments, such as the first kiss, cannot be “redone” at a later time if the photographer misses the shot.  For this reason, it is critical to hire a professional photographer and one who has experience photographing weddings.  Professional and experienced photographers have the correct and high-quality equipment necessary for producing great images, they have the expertise to know how the day will unfold and therefore anticipate photographs, and they know when it is appropriate to photograph and when it is not.

The best way to choose a photographer is to visit studios and view albums and portraits.  Calling on the phone or viewing websites can be helpful in obtaining preliminary information, but these methods are no substitute for meeting with the photographer in person and viewing complete wedding albums from a single wedding.   Of all the vendors you will be hiring for your wedding, the photographer is the person with whom you will be sharing the majority of your day.  How reassuring to know that you chose a photographer whose personality and style matches that of your own.  When you view an entire, completed wedding album, it gives you a true idea of what your album will look like and is an accurate representation of the photographer’s work.

Most bride’s are working within some budgetary constraints and have a price range in mind for their photography coverage.  Keep in mind that often times there is an initial package price, and then other portions of the order are paid for after the wedding date.  Every photographer is different, so make sure you know up front what the costs will be.  Sometimes attractive prices can be deceptive when you look at how much you will end up spending once you receive your finished products.  Most brides find that rather than calling for price information over the phone, it is helpful to determine your actual costs by meeting the photographer in person, obtaining detailed information including the contract, and having your specific questions answered.

So what questions should you ask when interviewing a wedding photographer?  First it is helpful to ask yourself some questions so that you know prior to meeting exactly what you want.  Are you looking for traditional photography, photojournalism, or a combination of both?  What about color or black and white images?  Do you want more posed photographs or candids?  Once you have an idea of what you are looking for, it’s time to start asking some questions: 

What sort of experience does the photographer have with weddings?  Wedding photography is very unique, so it is important to select a photographer who photographs weddings on a regular basis and someone who has been doing it for some time.

Who will photograph the wedding?  Some studios have more than one photographer for weddings, so it is important to know, and have in your contract, that the person you are meeting with is the same one who will be providing coverage on your wedding day.

Is the sample work you are viewing the photographer’s?  Make sure sample albums and wall portraits you see in the studio are the work of the photographer who will be photographing your wedding.

Does the photographer work with an assistant?  Although many photographers choose to work alone and have wonderful results, an assistant can be a great asset to wedding day coverage.  Assistants assure attention to details, keep the photographer happy and comfortable, and allow the photographer to provide more coverage of your special day.  Many photographer’s assistants also do some photographing themselves.

What exactly is included?  Some photographers have packages which can include coverage time, albums, portraits, and other products.  Some require a minimum order be placed after the wedding.  Sometimes travel time is included, but often times it is an additional charge.

What is the photographer’s philosophy on photographing weddings?  Because so much of the wedding day is spent with the photographer at your side, it is important to select one who shares your feelings.  Your photographer should be passionate about his or her work and enjoy the thought of spending the day with you capturing your wedding images.  Finding a photographer with energy, enthusiasm, creativity, and a positive attitude, along with polished photography skills, will surely make your wedding day as wonderful as you have always dreamed it will be.