DO YOU NEED A BIT OF HELP FINDING YOUR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER?
There are so many talented people out there who bring their own unique style to their photography. Finding the right one for you can feel a little overwhelming. But don’t worry, read on for my top tips for choosing your wedding photographer and how to get the best out of them.
WHERE TO START
My top tip for choosing your wedding photographer is to first find a style that resonates with you.
As you begin your research you will quickly discover which photos you are drawn to. It will be something about the colours, the focus, the way people look when they are photographed.
Some photographers will be more formal, some specialise in capturing those moments that no-one notices. Instagram is a good place to start as you’ll get a really good feel for the way each photographer composes their photos and the types of colours and filters they use.
Once you’ve narrowed down which style of photography you’d like and you’ve trawled the websites, call the photographers. Talk to them about how they work and then trust your gut. You need to feel the chemistry with your photographer so that you have complete confidence in the end result.
My second top tip for finding your wedding photographer is to check that their photos are of real couples and real brides.
You won’t believe how hard models have to work to get into pose which look natural but which can only be achieved by a pro – have you ever wondered why wedding dresses on models in magazines look so different to on real people?! It’s not just fancy lighting and pinning. It’s the way they position their bodies. Styled shoots are flooding our Instagram feeds at the moment, so make sure you find the photographs of real people and read their testimonials.
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DON’T FORGET THAT YOU ARE CAPTURING MEMORIES
Your wedding day should not just be a photoshoot. It is all about celebrating with your family and friends and making your vows to one another. Your photographer should document these moments.
Why not book an engagement shoot or pre-wedding shoot where you can get to know your photographer a little better and they can learn about how to capture you both perfectly.
If you want to have some high fashion, editorial style photos, you can even do a shoot after your wedding when you dress up in your dress once again! That way you won’t miss out on all the fun going on at your wedding!
SCHEDULES ON THE DAY
You’ll need to consider the running order of the entire day. If family photos are really important to you, you should make sure you allow time for this to happen. Thinking about the photos that you really want and scheduling them in will reduce a lot of stress and will ensure that no-one is missed. It’s important that your wedding photographer has a copy of these well in advance so that they can prepare and ask any questions.
I’d highly recommend drafting in the Ushers and Bridesmaids to help gather any family and friends together to keep this process as smooth and swift as possible.
You should also consider whether you want to have your preparations documented. The getting ready is such a big part of the day and who doesn’t want the look their Dad’s face captured when he sees them for the first time! Don’t forget the boys too!
Seeing photos of the bits you haven’t got to see on the day is all part of the fun when you get the album back.
Think about how your day will be structured so your photographer doesn’t miss the first dance or the speeches. It’s a good idea to build in natural breaks in the formalities which are the perfect opportunity for photos and so you don’t miss those amazing “Golden Hour” shots.
Finding your wedding photographer really is all about choosing your style, doing your research and trusting your instincts.
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