How to Choose a Wedding Photographer

Weddings are a time of joy and love. Little girls seem to dream of their future wedding date by the time they start talking. Weddings are something that most everyone knows about years before it is their time to walk down the aisle. When the time does come, there are all sorts of planning that needs to be made. One of the most important however, is finding that perfect photographer that will capture perfect memories on one the most memorable days that many people will have.

The first thing one should consider when choosing a wedding photographer is recommendations from friends that have had a pleasant experience in the past. Start by asking close friends or relatives about potential photographers, and how well their expectations were met. Always ask if you can look over their wedding photographs. Take your time and look over each and every picture. Did this photographer capture joyous moments? Were the pictures clear? If everything seems to be your liking, then the next step is to call the photographer. If you have absolutely no leads from friends or family, then going to the yellow pages and wedding web sites would be the next best option.

It is absolutely essential that you trust your wedding photographer. Even if you’ve been given wonderful recommendations about a certain photographer, it is up to you to take the extra step.The pictures hanging on Aunt Martha’s walls may be splendid, but you still need to do a little more digging on your own. The second step is to contact the photographer and set up an appointment.Simply e-mailing a prospective photographer would not be sufficient. Remember that we are talking about lifetime memories here. You want to make sure you have in person interview with the photographer so you can ask all the questions you need, and get a close up look at previous work done. Once you meet with potential photographers, developing a friendship is of utmost importance. This photographer will be photographing family and friends in an up close and personal manner. You want to make sure that you are comfortable enough to get your views across. Remember that there are no “do overs” when it comes to a wedding day.

Third, make you sure ask to see a portfolio of the photographer’s work. This will give you a good indication of the photographer’s abilities and sense of style. More often than not, people who appreciate portfolio work will also appreciate the results of their wedding pictures.

The fourth, and sometimes most difficult task, is discussing price, yet this is a must. Once you have narrowed down the photographer that you want, it’s time to get the plan in action. The more experienced photographer will almost always charge more. Make sure that your budget will allow you to afford what you need. Ask how many photographs will be taken, and if you are allowed to keep the negatives. Keeping the negatives will be invaluable if you ever want to reproduce any copies. Have the photographer explain everything that you will be entitled to. If the price seems a bit too steep, a little negotiating never hurt anyone. You want to have beautiful pictures, yet you do not want to go bankrupt in the process.

The fifth and final tip happens on the big day. Now that you have already met your photographer, you can be comfortable that an unkempt professional will not be showing up on your beautiful wedding day. By now, you know what kind of work your photographer does what the prices are, and how well you two get along. Do a quick run through with the photographer one last time, and let the magic begin. Enjoy yourself and let the photographer capture brilliant moments.

There is no better way to capture the special memories of a wedding than through photographs. Pictures are keepsakes that will bring joy for many years to come. With a little research, quality wedding pictures can become a reality on your wedding day.