How To Choose The Right Wedding or Elopement Photographer
If you’re here, you’re in the same boat that thousands of other couples have gone through: searching for the perfect wedding photographer. How on earth do you possibly choose the right photographer for you when there’s SO many to choose from? Well, I’m here to help you think things through! There’s lots of things to think about when choosing the right photographer. Sure, you might see some pretty photos on the ‘gram that draw in your attention! But you should also think about if this person is the right fit to document the most special moments of your life. Why? Because they aren’t just a photographer — they will become a lifelong friend. They are someone you will ask questions to, seek tips from. and rely on to capture those forever moments. Here are some things to consider when choosing the right photographer for your special day.
And if we haven’t met, Hiiii! I’m Shayla— a Cincinnati/Destination Wedding + Elopement Photographer. My heart is to get to know you as a friend and capture all the little moments that capture your unique love story.
Get to know me more HERE.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT PHOTOGRAPHER FOR YOUR WEDDING DAY
FIND A PHOTOGRAPHER THAT FITS YOUR STYLE
For starters, you obviously have to love the work coming from the photographer you choose. Whether you want light and airy photos, documentary style, or moody photos, you need to choose a photographer that fits that style. Please do not hire a photographer and expect them to edit photos for you that do not reflect their current work! Do your due diligence and checkout their website, instagram, and see if their style fits what you’re looking for. If so, reach out to them and be eager to book! Most photographers book 12 months in advance for wedding dates!
THE BEAUTY OF INVESTMENT
I’ll be the one to say it: Photographers are expensive. But there’s a reason why. You aren’t paying for someone to simply show up and take pictures on your wedding day. You are paying for an experience, so think of it as a true investment into your love story. Photographers do so much work aside from showing up and clicking a button on a camera!! We pour our heart and soul into their work, perfecting your gallery, communicating with you, traveling to venues, marketing, networking, website developing, book keeping, building relationships, and editing until our eyes turn red. The price you pay is worth it in the end, because you not only receive photos that last a lifetime, but you get a lifelong friend in the process. Or at least that’s how it should be!
UNDERSTAND THEIR VALUES
An important thing to think about when choosing your wedding photographer is what does your photographer value? Do they really listen to what you want, or are they just simply putting you in poses that fits their own portfolio needs? Do they really take the time to get to know you on a personal level, or do they just ask the bare minimum questions? Will they actually take the time to check in with you as the wedding day approaches, or will they only reach out when it’s time to send questionnaires or invoices? If you value friendship, honesty and communication, make sure you find a photographer who aligns with your own personal values! This will go A LONG WAY in your wedding experience!
CLEAR COMMUNICATION
When it comes to planning your wedding, communication is EVERYTHING when it comes to your vendors. Photographers, specifically, should be solid in their communication process with you and vice versa. There are countless details that go into your wedding day, and your photographer should be aware of EVERY SINGLE ONE. The worst thing you could do is not communicate with your photographer, and they show up on your wedding day without knowing all the special details! Always keep your photographer involved with timeline changes, family dynamics, and everything else in between. There should always be mutual communication between the photographer and the couple.
CONSISTENT INTENTIONALITY
Last but not least, always choose a wedding photographer who values intentionality. For example, whenever a couple reaches out to me, I always take the time to get to know them on a deeper level. I listen to every little thing! I want to know how he proposed, where you’re planning your honeymoon, how you met, how many pets you have, where you see yourself in 10 years, alllll the things! This helps me build relationships with my couples that will sustain years of time! I don’t see my clients as people who just pay for my work, I see them as true friends. I aim to be intentional in our time together, celebrate your important life moments, and even cry together when things get emotional (hopefully happy tears!). As a photographer, I want to be someone you can lean on and trust throughout the entire process, even months after I send you your final gallery! I strive to always be there for YOU.
Well, there ya have it! Keep these things in mind while on your search for the right photographer. Trust me, you won’t regret it! You deserve to have a seamless photography experience with whoever you may choose!
