Tips for Choosing the Right Wedding Photographer

Choosing the right wedding photographer is probably the most important choice you will make, because only your wedding pictures are intended to be kept and cherished for years, even decades to come. The cake will be eaten. The flowers will wilt and be thrown away. Even your wedding venue has half of its importance because of how good it will look in your pictures. You will likely see your wedding pictures every day on your mantelpiece, or when you visit family. And when you see them, you don’t want to regret them, so make this choice with care.

Talk to Several Photographers

It should go without saying, but you should schedule appointments with several photographers before making your decision. Three is probably a minimum, but you should keep talking to photographers until you find a couple you’re happy with.

Storytelling and Style

One of the most important things you want to understand about your photographer is their approach to storytelling. What kind of pictures will they look for to tell the story of your wedding day? Tell them what you’re looking for, and see if they get it. Ask to see similar stories so you can know whether they really understand.

Also talk to photographers about their style of taking pictures. Will they be snapping naturalistic candids all day, or do they like to pose pictures? Make sure you like their responses.

Equipment

Find out what equipment they will be bringing. How many cameras of what types. If you’re not camera-savvy, ask them to explain their choices and what they mean for your final shots. Talk to them about digital vs. film cameras to help you decide which is right for your wedding.

People

Make sure you know whether the photographer you’re talking to (and who you hopefully like) is actually the one who’s going to be there on your wedding day. If not, make sure you can get a guarantee of who it will be and talk to that person before making up your mind. Also find out if they will have an assistant on your wedding day.

References

Talk to people who have worked with this photographer before. Get references and talk to the people they recommend, but be aware that everyone can probably find a couple people willing to give them a good word. In addition to checking their references, talk to some of your other contractors if they have experience with a particular photographer.

At Stonebrook Manor, we have worked with many photographers and may be able to give you some insight on the ones you’re considering.

Find out What’s Included

Make sure you know what, exactly, is included in the bid and contract. Make sure you know:

• How many hours will the photographer be available?
• Will you be able to keep the proofs? What about the negatives? Do you have digital rights to the pictures? Will they use your pictures for promotional purposes?
• What is the price? Try to negotiate, especially if you want to add or subtract offered services.
• What happens if—God forbid—the photographer doesn’t show up on the day of the wedding?

Make sure you get everything in the contract. Remember, promises are just air—only the contract is a guarantee.

For more help with wedding planning, please contact Stonebrook Manor in North Denver. We can give you a tour of our beautiful venue and talk to you about our experience in making your special day perfect, both in person and in pictures.