I thought that I would offer some opinions in order to help the engaged couples make the proper choices when it comes to selecting a wedding photographer.
This is the beginning of a four parts series that I hope some of you will find beneficial in your search for the perfect wedding photographer. Please stay tune for the other parts that will be coming later.
How to choose the right wedding photographer (Part 1 of 4):
Your wedding day is one of the most important day in your lives. You want everything to be perfect. Wedding photos are a cherished keepsake, passed down through generations, and the only commemoration of the thousands of hours and dollars spent to plan the most important day of your life. Other than the choice of a spouse, the choice of the wedding photographer is the most important wedding-related decision you will make, and is not to be taken lightly. Following these steps can help you select the best photographer to record your Big Day.
1. Decide what style of wedding photography you prefer.
Are you looking for a traditional approach with mostly posed images? Or do you prefer lots of candid shots in which the subject may not even know he or she is being photographed? Do you like the glamour approach of fashion photography? Would you prefer a photographer who combines all of these styles (a freestyle or eclectic wedding photographer)?
2. Decide what level of service you want from your wedding photographer.
Perhaps you only need photographs of your ceremony so having just 1-3 hours of photography may be enough for you. Other couples may prefer a complete package that may include a pre-wedding engagement sessions, rehearsal dinner photographs, bridal portraits and newlywed photos.
3. Decide how many images you would like from your wedding celebration(s).
Some photographers may provide you with under 100 images to remember your wedding day by. Higher-end photographers often capture thousands of images (generally from 1,000 to 3,000) for you to keep forever.
4. Figure out how much time and expertise you have to process your images yourself.
Many brides who choose photographers that only give them a disc of their images (no album, prints or other items) find that they lack the time, software or knowledge to create their own albums, properly edit the photos (crop, color correct, etc.). Often, years later, these couples just have a stack of dusty, cheaply processed proof photos or photos on a disc that are not being lovingly displayed as a reminder of the wedding day.
5. Determine your Budget.
Photographer fees, prints, albums, etc. generally come to approximately 12% of the entire wedding budget. This will allow you to quickly discard candidates which you cannot afford.
6. Decide how you will use your pictures.
Do you plan to purchase just an album for yourself, or also pictures for your walls, prints to give to friends and family, or even put the images on stationery, invitations, calendars, mugs, T-shirts, and magnets?
To be continued .........
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