How to choose the best wedding photographer for YOU.
In a time when it seems that everyone and their neighbor is calling themselves a photographer, choosing the right one to document your big day can be daunting. Google will return page and pages of results. A Facebook inquiry will flood your inbox. It seems impossible, I know, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming.
Your best bet is to start with people in your circle who have recently used a photographer. Here's the catch, though - make sure you like the photos they received. Seasoned photographers each have their own distinct style and rarely agree to edit outside of that style. Recommendations from people you trust are much more valuable than those of strangers on the internet, without a doubt, so if they loved their photographer and you’re a fan of their style, that’s a great start!
If this isn't an option for whatever reason - you don't know anyone with recent experience, you don't like the styles you're seeing, or perhaps you're planning to elope in a different area than where you live - your next stop should be Google. Please take the time to read the reviews of any photographer you're considering. Check the dates on them, too: do they go back for years or do they all seem to be very recent? Do they seem genuine or does it seem like they could be written by friends or in exchange for free servIces? Treat the reviews the same way you would with a large purchase on Amazon!
Another very important step is to have an actual conversation with any potential choice. I know that we dislike the phone these days but this is worth it, I promise. Having a conversation will immediately give you a sense of your photographer’s personality. You'll have the opportunity to ask questions about their methods, equipment, experience, and contingency plans. You can ask about how they will back up your images and for how long they'll store them. They should ask you about the pertinent details of your planned day, and about your story. An experienced wedding photographer has learned over the years what to be prepared for and how to handle hiccups along the road. Don't forget to ask about their approach to capturing candid moments and formal portraits to ensure your wedding day is beautifully documented. You should feel confident and calm with the person you choose for this position. This is, after all, one of the most important days of your life.
IT’S NEVER TOO SOON TO begin the process of choosing your wedding photographer, and the best ones book up to two years in advance. Hiring your photographer should only be preceded by choosing your date and venue.
Helen Pace is a certified professional photographer specializing in clean, emotional, and timeless documentary-style wedding and elopement photography. We cover all of Western North Carolina and beyond. Want to learn more? Let’s connect!
