Is bad luck with wedding photographer genetic?
Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, filled with precious moments and emotions that you’ll want to remember forever. That’s where a talented (and trusted!) wedding photographer comes in. Choosing the right photographer is crucial to ensure that every beautiful detail and heartfelt moment is captured
Style and Aesthetic
Every photographer has a unique style. Begin your search by exploring different photographers’ portfolios to find one whose aesthetic aligns with your vision. Do you prefer traditional, classic photography, or are you more inclined towards a modern, documentary style? The photographer’s style should resonate with your taste.
Experience and Expertise vs Reviews and Reputation
Now, I am all for new businesses and helping them get their start. There are a lot of great photographers out there just starting their business and, by all means, don’t overlook them. And just because a photographer has a lot of experience, that does not guarantee trustworthiness either. Yes, I have two stories here.
When I got married, we hired a local photographer who had worked with the well-known, established photographer in town. He was just branching out on his own and starting his own business. He did a fantastic job on the day of the wedding, even getting all the kids in our extended family to look at the camera at the same time! The proofs were fantastic and we placed an order for prints and large portraits. Then our photographer skipped town. We finally tracked down his father and on Christmas day, were able to pick up our order. We wanted to order more, so he gave us our proofs to make another decision on which ones we wanted. We never heard from him again.
Fast forward to my daughter’s wedding. She found a photographer who was just starting out and offered a steal of a deal for engagement and wedding day photos. The engagement session went great and they loved the photos. Then 3 days before the wedding, my daughter got a call from the photographer saying she had covid. But she assured my daughter it was ok because she had already found someone to take her place. She put my daughter in contact with her and the wedding day went off without a hitch. The original photographer was still going to do the editing and they were to get a large canvas. The date for the promised images came and went. Excuses upon excuses were all they got. Photos from their September wedding were going to be Christmas gifts for family members but that never happened. Months later, after contacting and paying the other photographer, they finally got their photos. And months after that, the news came that the original photographer was in jail.
So while experience definitely matters when it comes to wedding photography, reputation matters more in my opinion. Look for a photographer who has a solid portfolio of weddings they’ve shot. An experienced photographer knows how to navigate various lighting conditions, capture candid moments, and handle unexpected situations that may arise during the day. But don’t just rely on the photographer’s portfolio; seek out reviews and recommendations from past clients. Ask friends and family for referrals and read online reviews. Hearing about the experiences of others can provide valuable insights into a photographer’s professionalism and the quality of their work.
Personality and Compatibility
Your photographer will be with you throughout your wedding day, so it’s essential that you feel comfortable with their presence. Schedule a meeting or engagement photo session to get to know them better. A photographer who can make you feel at ease will capture more natural and genuine moments.
Packages and Pricing
Wedding photography packages can vary significantly in terms of coverage, services, and pricing. Discuss your budget upfront and ensure you understand what’s included in each package. Consider extras like albums, prints, and digital files. A transparent pricing structure is essential.
Availability and Backup Plans
Confirm the photographer’s availability on your wedding date and discuss their backup plan in case of unforeseen circumstances like illness. Knowing there’s a contingency in place will give you peace of mind.
Equipment and Technology
Ask about the photographer’s camera gear and equipment. While the best photos often come from the photographer’s skill, having high-quality gear can make a difference in challenging lighting conditions. Ensure they have backup equipment in case of technical issues.
Flexibility and Creativity
A great photographer can adapt to different situations and creatively capture the essence of your wedding. Look for someone who can think on their feet, suggest unique shots, and bring your ideas to life.
Contract and Legalities
Always have a written contract that outlines all the details, including the wedding date, hours of coverage, deliverables, and payment terms. This contract protects both you and the photographer.
Your Gut Feeling
Trust your instincts. If you feel a genuine connection with a photographer and love their work, it’s likely a good fit. Your intuition can guide you in making the final decision.
Choosing the right wedding photographer is an investment in preserving the memories of your special day. Take your time, do your research, and don’t settle for anything less than the perfect match. With the right photographer by your side, you’ll have stunning images that allow you to relive your wedding day for years to come.
Remember, less is more
~ Melissa
