Photography is an art form, so it makes sense that different wedding photographers have different styles. To find a photographer that can take pictures in the style that you want, you need to do a bit of research. Here are the steps.
Pinpoint The Style You Want
Look through other people's wedding photographs, and collect the ones that you like. What do they have in common? What do you like about the photograph? This will help you figure out what style you like. Here are some examples of styles:
Look at the Photographer's Work
Search for photographers in your area and look at the work that they post publicly. This might be a portfolio on the photographer's website, Facebook, Instagram, or images online that are credited to the photographer.
Do you see a range of styles? Is one predominant? Examine the photographs with a critical eye to determine if the photographer will be able to take photographs in the style you desire.
Communicate Your Preferences
Tell the photographer that you hire about your style preferences. One of the best ways to do this is by pointing out images from their portfolio that you really like. Toronto wedding photographer Calin Ardeleanu, for example, asks clients to create a Pinterest board with a selection of favorite photos.
After all, you have hired them because you liked what you saw of their past work. When you pin point a group of pictures, the photographer can decipher what you are looking for even better than if you used words to describe the style you are looking for.
The subject matter of all wedding photographer's portfolios is similar. You'll see many white dresses and black tuxedos! It is up to you to develop an eye for the differences between the photographs, and start to think about style. How did the photographer manage the composition and light in the shot? Is it staged or candid?
When you begin to see beyond the subject matter, you can pinpoint the style you like, and then work with a photographer in your price range to match that style. I hope these tips help you find the perfect match of a photographer. What kind of photography style are you most interested in for your wedding shoot? Leave a comment below!
