12 things wedding photographers want to tell you, but can't
How do I pick a good photographer when there are hundreds listed in my area?
First, look for a forum or blog that appeals to your style. Obviously, if you're an Offbeat Bride, you're in the right place — I receive my best clients through the Offbeat Bride Vendor Guide. The photographers listed are both gay-friendly and accustomed to photographing offbeat weddings.
Once you've got a few favorite photographers, narrow it down to a handful of favorites, and set up a time to meet them. Make sure you're meeting with the person who will be wielding the camera at your wedding, not a sales consultant or studio owner. You have to, like, trust and get along with your photographer — that way you can leave the magic of photo making in the photographer's hands. Not only should you like their images, you should also like them! You'll be spending many hours with them during your wedding day.
How many photos do I get?
The wedding photographers I surveyed typically deliver 50-100 photos for every hour of coverage they provide. Four hundred photos may seem like a lot, but your wedding photographer is preserving all those little details and the moments you missed while you were mingling..... Read More
How To Choose A Wedding Photographer
Consider value when comparing quotes. Remember: You get what you pay for.
Although there may be exceptions, in general, better photographers cost more. How about those cut-rate ones? Well, they're cheap for a reason. That said, there are ways you can save money while hiring a solid pro.
"Take a look at what's included in the price they quote you, whether products or a service, and consider its value to you. Often, wedding photographers will include a bunch of things like loose prints, parent albums, Trash the Dress sessions and so on, but not all of these may be relevant to your needs or expectations," advises Hung. You can save by cutting some of the extras.
Ask for references. Narrowed it down to someone you want to hire? Ask for two or three references. Call and find out if the past customers are happy with the work the photographer did leading up to, during and after the wedding.
You can also do a quick Google search to see if anyone has any major complaints with your potential hire..... Read More
How to Choose the Right Wedding Photographer
Discuss Wedding Photography Equipment
Although you may not be a professional photographer yourself, you should know what type of camera and equipment your photographer will be using during your event. You may find that you are more particular about it than you think.
For example, there are advantages to both digital and film that you may want to consider. Both produce high quality images, but some say film produces better pictures when enlarged. Others contend that digital pictures are easier to manipulate and produce.
In the end, if the photographer uses a digital camera, make sure it takes images of at least 8 megapixels or larger. If film is the photographer's preference, make sure they use professional grade film instead of consumer quality film.
Just like every photographer should bring along an assistant to help him during your wedding, every photographer needs backup equipment in case his original equipment fails. Flashes, lenses and cameras should all come in multiples. Extra batteries, film and memory cards are also a must..... Read More
