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Outside of the venue, the biggest and most important expense will be your chosen photographer. Many couples have changed their wedding date just to book their desired photographer, which speaks volumes! You’ve probably read countless blogs that state “Pictures are important; worth a thousand words; will be there long after the cake is cut and your garter is tossed.” All are indeed true, but this week’s OneTouch wedding tip focuses on our thoughts on choosing the right photographer which consist of the 3 P’s: Portfolio, Personality and Professionalism. I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences (pleasant or painful) about your photography search.
HAVE YOU VIEWED THEIR PORTFOLIO?
Were you impressed with the photos of a friend/colleague recently married? Ask them about their experience with the photographer. When you hear “I loved my photographer” add them to your list to contact. Referrals are always great and can take a lot of guesswork out of which you should proceed with contacting about photographing your wedding. Prior to contacting the professional, check out their bio and on-line portfolio to get a sense of their photography style – traditional /classic wedding photography or photojournalistic style. There isn’t one “correct” style and great photographers can capture a fusion of both, producing wonderful images that reflect your personality and wedding vision.
ARE THEY THE YIN TO MY YANG?
Personality is key for all of your wedding vendors, but photographers in particular. Your relationship may start at your E-Session (Engagement Photos); followed by rehearsal dinner and a full day of shooting as you and your bridal party are getting your beautification on. Your photographer will glide and blend into the background of the day’s activities, but he/she will be just like family with the amount of time and close attention to detail necessary to capture the most intimate moments with your immediate family, and new husband or wife. When first meeting with a photographer, if you can’t fathom being strapped to the hip with them for 10 hours, RUN. No love of their award winning work, multiple publications or 20 5-start reviews will ease the anxiety that you’ll have on your wedding day if you just don’t like the photographer. It’s that simple.
WHAT ARE PAST CLIENTS SAYING?
This takes us back to referrals but more so, past reviews. Promptness on event day, understanding lighting concepts used in your Halloween themed night wedding and responding to questions & providing photo proofs and images within a timely (and contracted) manner are just a few considerations when evaluating professionalism. During your consultation, this will become much more evident, but I’d be remiss in not strongly suggesting preparing for the conversation with your questions. Who will be my actual photographer? What is your back up plan for your back up plan, (think equipment)? What are the details of each package? Familiarity with the venue site is a bonus but not required. As long as he /she is willing to conduct a site visit to get a feel for the space and understand any rules associated with the location for contingency planning (i.e., no photos during ceremony in the sanctuary).
STILL UNSURE WHO MIGHT BE YOUR PERFECT FIT?
No worries, I have you covered! When you work with me to help plan your wedding, you have unlimited resources of only the BEST of the BEST wedding vendors that Atlanta has to offer. I’ll be sure to help you only meet the photographers that I feel could be a perfect match for your perfect day. Simply contact me to set up a consult.