Your photographs & videos will be your most treasured wedding keepsake — you’ll want to post them on Facebook as soon as you get them and you’ll look back 50 years from now, reminiscing about your vows, the kiss, and the first dance.
Choosing the right photographer to capture those special moments is an important decision and it’s essential to find someone who understands your vision for your wedding day and who can document it with style.
But you’ll also want someone you trust and feel comfortable with since he or she will be by your side the entire wedding day.
To help you find the right person here are a few top tips to selecting the perfect wedding photographer.
Book your venue first
It’s a smart idea to hire your photographer after you’ve secured your venue. Aim to book his or her services about nine months before the wedding (or a year, if your photographer is in high demand).
Settle on a style
Do your homework and spend some time online browsing a variety of wedding blogs to get a sense of the style of photography you like. Maybe it’s bright and poppy, with lots of saturated colour. Or perhaps you prefer a more vintage look, with more washed-out tones and a dreamy, nostalgic feel.
Also, check out reviews and testimonials and once you’ve found some photographers whose work you admire and who have happy customers, email each one and inquire 1) if they’re available on your wedding date and 2) about their photography rates. If the ones you’re interested in are available on your date and if their fees are within your budget, then you can schedule a meeting.
Some photographers’ fees include everything – albums, prints, postproduction and high-resolution images (saved on a disc or flash drive); others have a flat or hourly rate, then charge you à la carte for any pictures or albums you want. Many photographers offer a price list that details several different packages they offer at different price points. Make sure that you understand what’s included. Ask how long the photographer will spend with you and whether there will be a second shooter, as you’ll get more detail shots this way. Lastly, also inquire about when you can expect to receive everything, from a sneak peek of images, to prints, to video, to your final album. Once you’ve evaluated each photographer’s work and fees, and narrowed down the options, it’s time to make your decision. Don’t forget that you’ll be spending the entire wedding day with this person, so you want to make sure you feel completely comfortable with the photographer. If you’ve got the time, schedule a test run. An engagement photo shoot is a nice idea — it’s a great opportunity to get to know your photographer and begin to feel comfortable having your photo taken, especially if you or your groom are camera-shy. To get you started on your search, here’s a list of some of the Waterfronts specialist photographic suppliers. All come with great credentials, and needless to say, all have shot at our spectacular waterfront venue. Diamond Photography – https://www.facebook.com/DiamondPhotography/Go with your gut
Schedule a test run
Off to a good start
ASP Photographer – https://www.facebook.com/AdamSpoonerPhotography/
Instill Photography – https://www.facebook.com/InstillPhotography/
Splendid Photography – https://www.facebook.com/splendidphotovideo/
Lightheart Wedding Films & Photography – https://www.facebook.com/lightheartfilmsphotography/