How to choose a wedding photographer

When you're planning a wedding, you want everything to be perfect. The flowers, the cake, fhe food, the lighting, the DRESS! But in the end, it flies by much too quickly. Months after your wedding, you'll find yourself reliving the moments in your head, over and over. And what better way to do that then with the images captured by your tireless, inventive, creative, magical Photographer!

Photo by Jose Villa

Choosing the right photographer to capture all those precious moments of your special day is a big decision. You should really take the time to research your options to make sure the photographer you choose really understands what you're looking for. I've spent years working with wedding photographers, so I thought I'd share some tips on how to select the right wedding photographer with you all:

1. Consistency: Any photographer who's been in business long enough will hopefully have 1 good day = 1 good album to show you. Ask to see others. Make sure they are consistently producing quality imagery. Don't just take their word for it.

Photo by Anne McGowan

2. Diversity: Your wedding day will contain a slew of challenges and opportunities for your photographer. Will it be inside or outside? Or both? Daytime or Night? Large bridal party or small? Will they need to bring a flash or can they rely on the natural, available light? Every wedding is different and therefore, your photographer should be prepared for every possible scenario. Make sure they're comfortable with that and make sure you've seen a few examples of their work in each of these scenarios.

Photo by Jim Garner

3. Comfortability: Some of the world's greatest photographers are masters at making their client - you the bride and groom, feel comfortable having their pictures taken. This is not an easy feat to accomplish but the resulting images appear more real and true to your personalities. A really great photographer will take the time to get to know you, starting with your first introduction, and engagement shoot and right up to the big day. I have many photographer friends who end up becoming very good friends with their clients and continue their relationships even after the wedding. Think about it, would you rather have a good friend or a complete stranger taking your pictures on your wedding day??

Photo by Jasmine Star

4. Creativity: Of course you're going to want some of the old traditional family portrait style images on your wedding day as well as all the various combinations with you and your fiance, your bridal party and more. But you're also going to want to have your photographer get a little creative. Take a look through their sample albums and take notice of the images that stand out for you. First of all, were there any? Were there a ton? Is their creative range diverse and does their style match yours?

Photo by Yervant

5. Style: Style is important and probably the easiest concept to identify when comparing various photographers. If their images appeal to you, if  their contrasting use of light and dark in their images stands out, if you find it hard to turn away or can't wait to see the next image in an album - than you are in good company. Finding a good photographer is a lot like finding your favorite new pair of shoes. You want them to stand out with their brilliance but also fit like they were made specifically for you.

Photo by Elizabeth Messina

6. Timing: Every photographer is different. Some like to spend 5 minutes or so, setting up a shot. Some just want to photograph the moments as they occur. Some want 3-4 hours with a couple while others only need 20 minutes or so. Make sure they know what it is you want. The easiest thing to do is to give them a list of the various combinations you want them to include. Make sure you both understand what your expectations are and provide them with a schedule for the big day.

Photo by Millie Holloman

Lastly, when you have selected your photographer - make sure to give them a little flexibility and creative time.  Those just may be the images that surprise you. And have FUN! Hope this helps someone!