My top 10 tips for finding a wedding photographer are aimed to help you make the right decision and avoid wedding photography horror stories! It’s so, so, so important to capture those wedding day memories beautifully, and all too easy to get it wrong! So here’s my own personal guide to finding a wedding photographer you’ll be delighted with.
Finding a wedding photographer: 10 top tips
- Do your research. Take your time to compare a few wedding photographers. Never make a snap decision under pressure (at a wedding fair or a face-to-face meeting).
- Meet your wedding photographer. They’ll be there on your wedding day so you need to know you’ll be happy having them there – do you get along? Are they listening to you or talking at you?
- Never let your budget alone dictate who your wedding photographer will be: ask about experience and look carefully at a few photographers’ portfolios. Choose the best you can afford.
- Let Uncle Bob down nicely, with a polite but firm “No.” It’s so not worth the risk!
- Look for examples on your wedding photographer’s website of photos which will stand the test of time. You need to love your wedding album when you’re showing it to your grandchildren – and they should too!
- Have a pre-wedding photo shoot. It’s the best way to learn how to feel comfortable having your picture taken.
- Use your instincts too. You’re looking for someone you can trust – make that decision with your heart as well as your head
- If you want lots of formal shots, choose a photographer whose style fits. If you’re looking for documentary style photography, find a wedding photojournalist – and if you’re not sure what those terms mean, ask!
- Go by word of mouth if you can. Look at friends’ wedding albums, ask what their photographer was like on the day
- Don’t ignore the sensible stuff: check your photographer is insured, and always, always, always sign a contract. Read it carefully too!
Share your advice about finding a wedding photographer
I’d love to know if you have any tips for finding a great wedding photographer – do share your own advice in the comments box below. If you had a great experience with your wedding photographer, share your advice with other brides and grooms reading this blog.
If you’re still looking – good luck with finding the perfect wedding photographer for your big day.
Claire x
