There’s little denying that choosing and booking your wedding photographer is one of the most important elements of your big day. And while many couples often get frightened by the prices that come with this, these are the pictures you’ll be looking back on for the rest of your lives!  We’re hoping that this quick read will help you feel confident in choosing the right photographer to know what to ask (and not ask) when choosing your wedding photographer.

Wedding photographers’ prices vary depending on their experience, quality and demand.  Take our advice seriously when we say: “you get what you pay for”.   You’re investing in the quality of a range of photos, including digital copies and prints that you’ll be looking back on for many years.  But what many couples forget is that your photographer plays such a unique role and will be present in many truly intimate moments, and so being comfortable around your chosen photographer is an important element (if not the most important).

BEFORE YOU START YOUR SEARCH FOR THE PERFECT PHOTOGRAPHER

Before you start your search for the perfect photographer, it may be helpful to discuss certain aspects such as your budget, how much coverage you will need on the day, what you will want to have included in a potential package, and what aspects of the day you value most.

Don’t forget to check out their socials – this will also give you a good feel of their photography style and skills.

YOU’VE SHORTLISTED A FEW PHOTOGRAPHERS OR THINK YOU’VE FOUND THE ONE – WHAT NOW?

Now would be a good time to set up an in-person meeting or zoom call with your potential photographer.  Remember that it is important to ensure you like this person and that you trust him/her. There’s a good chance you might be spending more time with your photographer than with your maid of honor, so make sure you get on with one another!

A few questions you may want to ask:

• What is their photography style?

• What are the typical different kinds of pictures you’ll be taking at different stages of the day?

• What does their price include?

• Can we view other couples’ wedding photo highlights from their day?

• Can we view a full wedding gallery?

• Will you be able to continue photographing the night in low lighting?

• What is the delivery time after the wedding?

Remember, this is YOUR big day – don’t hold back on any questions until you’re 100% satisfied!

Wedding photo checklist

It’s also always a good idea to make a quick wedding photo checklist with your photographer to ensure he/she will capture every important moment. This is obviously dependent on each couple and what is most important to them.

Here are a few we think are always essential:

GETTING READY

• Bride getting ready with her bridesmaids

• The dress and accessories

• The groom and groomsmen

• First Look Shots

• The bridal bouquet

CEREMONY PICTURES

• The venue

• The groom’s expression as the bride walks down the aisle

• The exchanging of the rings

• The kiss

RECEPTION PICTURES

• The venue

• Table decor

• The cake (and it’s cutting!)

• Guests arriving

• Speeches and toasts

• The first dance

• Dancing

Want the full checklist? Download it below!

Although choosing a photographer is just one element within your special day, it can still be incredibly overwhelming (but we’re hoping that the above will make you feel more at ease about the process.

Need a helping hand choosing your perfect photographer? No problem, click here, and let’s get started!