1. Pick your date:
Finding the right photographer can be both exciting and timely. Making sure your date is secure prior to meeting the photographer will help to make your experience come to fruition. In meeting with any vendor (at a time that your date is not fully reserved) there is a distinct possibility that when you return to that vendor, they may no longer be available. We have seen that happen many times within the industry, where solidifying the date had taken many weeks, possibly with the initial date even to change.
2. Recommendations:
Getting a referral from another married couple is a great source, however there is probably no better way to find the best photographer than the recommendation of others in the wedding business, with your caterer being at the top of the list.
3. Research:
Taking a look at a photographer’s website should tell you volumes about the quality of their work. However, photographers being artists, they are usually not the most organized when it comes to the business or production side. An informative website and one that is easy to navigate should give you some idea of the photographer’s organizational skills. Unorganized photographers might take much more time in getting you the images or your wedding album.
4. Meeting your photographer:
Nothing is more important than getting that comfort level with a talented artist. Make sure that the personality of this individual is the right match, and someone that you can spend a lot of time with. Most weddings are in access of 9-10 hours and much more enjoyable with a warm and caring personality, rather than a head strong, hyperactive shooter.
5. Investigate:
A simple means of verifying the facts and satisfaction of others is to check the Better Business Bureau or complaint sites on the web. Most bridal websites, like the Knot (www.theknot.com) offer a chat room where local brides vent or rave. One bad scolding is one too many.
6. Photojournalism vs. Traditional photography:
The question is “why choose”? There are numerous benefits to covering both styles of photography, however most photographers have a choice or preference to what they want or like to shoot. Often claiming that the one they like best is the one, and only one to cover. Hiring a photographer that customizes their coverage and has the expertise to shoot multiple styles will guarantee the very best that photography has to offer. Let the photographer explain both styles and see samples of both, to pick and choose what suites your vision best. In the end, you will have a collection of photographs that both tell the story and document beautiful portraiture.
7. Assistant vs. multiple shooters:
Correct lighting gives your images more depth and dimension. Where as a camera flash has a range of about 15 feet, the backgrounds of these images without the sublimation of additional flash will appear too dark or black. Umbrella light stands are most common, but unfortunately obtrusive and inaccurate at best. Portable lighting used by an assistant will guarantee proper placement of the supplemental lighting and without distraction. Use a second person as an assistant for better lighting instead of multiple shooting with inferior lighting.
8. Equipment:
Photographers use the equipment that they can afford, which is not always the best equipment to use. If a surgeon told you he was using a screwdriver and utility knife to operate, you would certainly be concerned. Capturing the perfect moments of a wedding day does not allow second chances. Utilizing better technology and more consistent cameras will allow the photographer to be more precise with his exposure and timing, capturing the shot “the first time”. Don’t be afraid to ask what camera they use, as it would be embarrassing to you for a guest to have a better camera (and get better shots) than the professional you hired.
9. Back up, back up, back up:
Make sure that your photographer continually backs up his images, all night long. Computers crash, cards get corrupt and images get lost. Backing up images will guarantee the images make it to your collection.
10. Make decisions quickly:
Better photographers are in high demand, often not available for premium dates for a long period of time. If you find someone that you are interested in, act quickly and secure their services with a formal contract and reasonable deposit. Make sure all verbal commitments are in writing and that the contract is easy reading. You’re not buying a house here, however the language is there to protect both you and the photographer.