Last week, I introduced StudioWed’s “Engagement 101” series and focused on wedding planners. Today, we’ll go further into the planning process and talk about when to book wedding photographers, what to look for when booking wedding photographers, and what StudioWed vendors think is the best advice when it comes to choosing and booking a photographer for your wedding. Our photographers, Andrea Taylor Studio, Jamie Howell Photography, Janet Howard Studio, Project Duo Photography, and Rae Leytham Photography, all let me pick their brains to bring you the best information when it comes to booking a wedding photographer.
Booking a photographer is one of the biggest decisions you have to make when planning your wedding. First of all, the images last forever! Other than your marriage (which is, of course, the most important!), your photos are the only thing you can take away from the day. Picking a photographer whose style and personality meshes with yours is paramount, and here is how you can make sure to make the right choice.
When do you need to book a wedding photographer?
From Janet Howard: “As soon as you have a date set. Any vendor that can only do one wedding per day, such as the venue, photographer, or planner should be booked as soon as possible. Popular dates can book a year or more in advance, so those are things to cross off your list early! Also, finding your photographer means you can do an engagement photo session early, and use those images for your Save the Dates or your wedding web site.”
Photo via Janet Howard Studio
What do you need to look for when meeting with potential wedding photographers?
From Courtney & Zahra of Project Duo: We think chemistry is the number one factor when choosing your photographer. If there’s no chemistry, how can you make beautiful work together? The images that are made on your engagement session and wedding day are a collaboration between you and your photographer.
From Jamie Howell: “The best piece of advice I can give is do your research and have a very good idea of what you’re looking for. Basic, “deal breaker” issues should be dealt with over the phone or through email before meeting. This includes issues of availability and budget. If someone isn’t available or is completely out of your price range, then there is no reason to waste time meeting them.
You should also know what style of photography you are after. A lot of people aren’t very picky. In this case, most competent photographers should be able to satisfy your requirements. To others who have more discerning tastes, keep looking at websites and portfolios to find someone you really like.”
What’s the best advice when it comes to the wedding day?
From Wes of Rae Leytham Photography: “Be on time! Most photography timelines are already crowded, and being even a few minutes late getting started can throw the whole day off. That usually affects photography the most.”
From Andrea Taylor: “If photography is important to you and, for example, you want to have lots of images of the couple together, you want to allocate enough time for that. Other than that, trust who you hired and enjoy the ride.”
Photo via Andrea Taylor Studio
So in summary: book early (6-12 months in advance), do your research, ask lots of questions during your consultations, and enjoy photos you love forever!
