Your wedding photographs are the keepsake that record the hard work of the hundreds of hours you’ve spent planning your dream day. Once the food is eaten and the flowers have withered they will be the one thing that you will use to transport you back to that amazing day that celebrated your love.
After the your choice of partner one of the most important decisions for most brides is choosing your wedding photographer and with so many photographers out there I thought I’d share with you my top tips on how to make the decision.
1. Consider how important your memories are to you
Whether or not to have a professional photographer tends to be the subject of intense debate. It is worth considering that you choose a professional for the knowledge and skills they have. Shooting weddings is something they will be well versed in and they will ensure they are in the right place at the right time throughout the day to capture your important memories. They will know what to look for as they watch your guests to catch the emotional moments, them enjoying themselves and all the important details. They will also understand the light and the best way and places to shoot to ensure your photographs are stunning.
2. Decide on the style that feels right for you
You need to choose what style of photographs you would like. Do you want documentary style photography where the photographer captures natural images of people enjoying themselves? Did you want a more traditional photographer who photographs mostly posed images or maybe you’d prefer the more glamorous style of fashion photography. Maybe you would like a photographer who can mix the styles? Once you’ve decided it will help narrow the field.
3. Decide what level of coverage you would like
Photographers have different packages available and you can choose how much coverage you want taking into account everything you want to what your budget will allow. Do you want to only capture the ceremony or do you want the photographer to be there all day to document you getting ready and all the precious details through to the end of the day? Would you like an engagement shoot, an album or just be able to print your own?
4. Do your research
Have a look around at what is on offer; look at several photographers whose work and style you like; if their photographs speak to you emotionally you’re on the right track. Ask to see a whole wedding so you can see the photographs through the whole day are all of the same quality as the best on their site.Arrange to meet your final selection of photographers to make sure you get on well. Choose someone you really like; they will be with you all the way through one of the most important days of your life, they need to be someone you get on well with and trust completely.
5. Go with someone who’s work you love – don’t be put off by price
Most couples are on a specific budget and there is always the need to squeeze in various areas and one of the areas a lot of couples tend to look is at the photography. Think about how much you have to spend on your photographer while considering the level of coverage you want. It really doesn’t matter how much or little you spend as long as you and the photographer gel well and you love their work. Go to wedding shows, especially the larger ones, you’ll be able to take advantage of offers photographers are running for the day; it also gives you a chance to meet them face to face.
6. And most importantly…Have fun
You’re planning one of the best days of your life; yes you have a lot to do and sometimes it can be a little stressful but enjoy yourself. Take time to have fun with the people close to you and delegate where you can, they are all there for you. Get inspired and plan your dream day! It’s your day, have it your way; revel in it and immerse yourself in the joy!
For more advice and tips see Hemma Mason at The London ExCeL Wedding Show this weekend on Stand 200!
