Besides the memories of your wedding day, the other thing that will last forever is the photographic record of the events. So, it is vital to make a smart choice when selecting your photographer and/or videographer. First, look at your friends’ wedding albums and wedding videos. Make notes about what you see that you like. Friends, family, and co-workers are excellent sources for referrals – and name dropping for those “professionals” who should be avoided.
Second, when interviewing photo professionals, ask to see entire wedding albums, including proofs. Pay attention to how many shots you consider to be “bad” and why you do not like them. Notice the lighting in the photos, the clarity, etc. This will give you a good overall sense of how good the photographer really is.
Be sure the photographer you meet with is the one who will photograph your wedding. Some studios will switch to a freelance photographer at the last minute, someone you don’t know, and whose work you possibly won’t like. Make sure you know exactly what you’re getting.
Make sure your personality “clicks” with the photographer. He or she should be someone who puts you at ease. If they make you uncomfortable, it will show in the photographs.
No matter how good a photographer is, he or she can’t be in all places at one time. For this reason, many couples hire an assistant photographer or even a second photographer. If you choose this option, make sure everyone is comfortable and will work well together.
Also, ask what “extras” the photographer will be bringing to the ceremony and reception. Will they have extra equipment and film? How do they handle emergencies? Find out ahead of time. And, if you don’t like the answers you get, you should think twice about hiring this person.
Another thing to remember for wedding photography is the area used for formal pictures that should have a plain background. An innocent wall paper pattern or large oak tree can ruin what would have been a perfect portrait otherwise, so be sure those formal pics don’t have anything unusual in the background!
