How to choose the right photographer

The choice of the photographer must not be taken lightly. You must make sure that you get the right person to suit your style.

Booking the photographer should be on top of your ‘to do’ list and you must book them as soon as you have decided and booked the wedding venue. Good photographers are snapped up at least 12 months in advance, therefore you wouldn’t want leave it to the last minute.

You can find a good photographer by asking your friends and family for suggestions. Talk with your married friends and have a look at their photos. If you like what you see, make a note and call the photographer to book an appointment and view their work. If you have already booked the venue, maybe they could give you information about the photographers they are co-operate with.

Go through the professional bodies such as, SWPP (Society of Wedding and Portrait Photography), MPA (Master Photographer Association) and BIPP (British Institute of Professional Photography) to locate the photographers near you.

Before you arrange the appointment do some research on the Internet. Gather as much information as you can about their work, if they are available on the date you have set for your wedding and most of all their prices and their price policy. One thing is for sure . . . you don’t want to fall in love with someone’s work and at the end to find out that they are very expensive and you cannot afford to hire them.

Once you have chosen the photographer it is very important to arrange a meeting. It’s vital that you feel comfortable with them; after all you are going to spend most of your wedding day with them around and you would like to feel relaxed with their presence.

During the meeting, ask to see previous jobs. If possible ask to see the entire album, not only a selection of single images from each wedding. By viewing the whole wedding album you will get an idea on their work and if they are consistent.

Ask them if they are familiar with the venue that you’ve chosen, and if not ask for a rehearsal before the wedding day. This will help you choose the best locations and backdrops for the photo shoot.

Once you’ve decided on the photographer, you will need to sort out the money and the repayment schedule. Find out what is included in the price you are given and be very careful of hidden costs, such as traveling and overtime. Ask if they have professional indemnity insurance. Most of all, before you sign anything, confirm everything agreed in writing.

For more information on how to find the right photographer, please contact us.