Get the Picture

Written by: Sofie Lechat Photo (Above): Capture Studio Photography

YOUR WEDDING DAY WILL GO BY IN THE BLINK OF AN EYE. ALL THE MONTHS OF PLANNING WILL, IN JUST A FEW short hours, be nothing more than a memory. It’s important to document your wedding day from the big “I do” to the smallest detail. Finding the right photographer for your wedding is important.

Good professional photographers are not inexpensive and may be your biggest expense after your reception venue. However, unlike many of your other wedding purchases, photography has longevity.

Good photographs will help you treasure and re-live those special moments. Don’t entrust this once in a lifetime occasion to just anyone! Ask any past couple and they’ll tell you that photography is the last thing you want to “cut corners on” for your big day.

It’s important to find a photographer who specializes in weddings and has a beautiful portfolio. Wedding photographers have to be more than fine artists though. They have to manage wedding logistics and know the traditions and order of events. With experience comes knowledge. Quality wedding photographers know which shots are important and how to capture them. Find out how long your photographer has been photographing weddings and if your wedding involves cultural customs, be sure to make your photographer aware of these in advance.

The best photographers fill their calendars a year or more in advance, so start looking early. Browse through blogs and websites to get a feel for the type of photography you like. Are you attracted to more posed portraits or do the candid photos catch your eye? Once you have a feel for your style preference, it is important you book a photographer whose portfolio shows work in that style. Identify three to five photographers whose work appeals to you and contact them for availability and schedule appointments with those who are open on your date.

Your photographer’s interpersonal skills are as important as their technical knowledge and years of experience. If you are uncomfortable with your photographer it will show in your pictures. Good rapport is key! As you visit with your potentials,carefully look at the photographs on the wall and in the albums. Ask if they have examples of an entire wedding to see how they “tell” the story through images. If you make an emotional connection to a certain photographer’s images, then you have probably found your photographer. If you find yourself thinking, “I really wish they took more posed/candid photos,” then it may be best to move on.

You should expect your photographer to provide detailed information. Most have preprinted brochures, rate cards and contracts. Ask lots of questions and get quotes in writing. These should include information about deposits, cancellations, refunds and turnaround time. Ask for details about purchasing prints, proofs, reprints and negatives. Find out if you’re paying for time, prints or both.

After visiting the photographers on your list, it is important to secure your favorite with a deposit. Photographers cannot hold a date without a deposit and if you wait too long to make your decision, you could lose your first choice. Always get a contract from your photographer detailing everything you’ve agreed to. This should include the pricing and what is included with your photography package. Detailed documentation will avoid future frustrations!

Venue Restrictions

Be sure you understand your venue’s photography restrictions. Many churches and synagogues do not allow flash photography and many do not permit the photographer to move around during the ceremony. A few don’t allow photography at all! Know what to expect. Your photographer may not be able to get all the photos on your wish list if they’re limited to staying at the back of aisle for the entire ceremony.

“Obvious” Questions

A typical assumption is that the person you meet with is the one who will be photographing your wedding. Never make assumptions! Always ask who your photographer will be. And while you’re at it ask about backup plans. Obviously, no one ever plans to become sick or get in an accident, but your photographer should have a backup plan in the event that they can’t photograph your wedding. Ask what that backup plan is.

Turnaround Time

Every photographer has a different process for post production and editing. Some may have proofs ready for you within a week of your wedding, while others may require two months (or more!). Know what to expect and try not to become impatient. Of course, you should expect to receive your photos when promised or at least receive communication from your photographer if there have been unexpected delays like family emergencies.

Negative Talk

Always ask if you receive the digital negatives from your photos. Some photographers include this in your package, others offer them at an additional cost and some do not offer them at all. Know your photographer’s policy. If you will receive digital files, ask your photographer where they recommend having them printed - not all photo printing companies are created equal.

Balancing Act

Most photographers require that your balance be paid in full prior to the wedding, usually several weeks before. This is completely normal and should be expected. If the thought of paying upfront before receiving anything makes you nervous, ask for past client references to call. If you’re nervous about the photographer taking your money and running, think twice about hiring that photographer. You should never hire someone you don’t trust.

Details, details.

Other questions to ask include: How many photographs will be taken? Are there additional travel costs? What types of proofs will I receive - online or printed? What is your cost and policy for adding more time? How much are reprints? Do you have an assistant or second photographer that will be at my wedding?

Knowing what to expect can relieve a world of stress. Hire a seasoned professional whose work you love and enjoy your day!