Credit: Hayley B Weddings
How To Choose The Right Wedding Photographer For Your Special Day
by Grace MurphyWhen it comes to your wedding, you want everything to be perfect. From the venue to the catering, there are a million and one things to think about while you're trying not to stress too much about whether it's going to rain or not. You're also going to need to keep an eye on government guidelines if you're planning on celebrating the big day this year.
But when the day is over and you can finally relax, you're going to want to make sure that the photographs taken on the day perfectly capture that once in a lifetime experience. That’s why it’s so important to make sure that you make the right choice when it comes to your wedding photographer. You’re going to be flooded with options when you search “Bristol Wedding Photographer” for example, so here are a few tips to help you towards the perfect pick.
Make sure you see a portfolio
Inevitably, at some point during your wedding planning, a friend or family member will approach you to either tell you that their friend is actually something of a gifted amateur photographer and would love the opportunity, or that they themselves have always been interested in it and would be delighted to cover the wedding for you. No matter whether they’re your closest friend or someone you’ve been referred to, you need to check their portfolio to see if they’re up to the job.
Photo credit: Balance Photography
Know what kind of style you want
For something that sounds so specific, “Wedding photography” actually covers an incredibly broad range of different photography styles. Some people opt for very traditional staged pictures, the kind where someone is sent out to gather everyone to line up and smile. Some people want their photographer to capture all the unguarded moments: the groom spilling something on his tie, the bridesmaid practicing her speech in the mirror, the kids eyeing up the cake. If you want a mix of natural moments and portraits, check Matt Willis’ portfolio, a documentary wedding photographer from Bristol. Remember: Think carefully about what you want before you commit to a specific photographer to make sure their style matches your vision.
Photo credit: Fresh Shoot Studios
Do your homework on them, and with them
When you think you’ve found your perfect wedding photographer, you’re going to want to make sure that you can find plenty of testimonials, so don’t be afraid to ask for them. It will also be worth checking to see if they know the venue beforehand as they may have some tips that you may not have thought of. Above all, you need to set aside time to work with them before the big day. You won’t be wanting to double check everything they’re doing or answering their questions on your wedding day, after all!
Wedition Hot Tip: pre-wedding photo shoots are a worthy investment to make sure you feel comfortable in front of your wedding photographer, it will also provide you with some stunning images ahead of your big day which you may wish to use on your invitations or as the front cover of your personalised wedding magazine!
Photo credit: Ideal Imaging by Alistair Jones
Make the most of your pre-wedding photos
By meeting with your photographer ahead of the day and having a practice photo shoot, you'll not only feel super comfortable in front of them but you'll be able to use the amazing photos within Wedition, a personalised wedding magazine which you give to guests on the day of your wedding. Use these stunning keepsake wedding magazines to celebrate your love story with your wedding guests, include the story of how you met, the proposal details and an introduction to your wedding party! Find out more here.
Photo credit: Ideal Imaging by Alistair Jones
Go through ideas with them
So, make sure that you’ve agreed on a style, a budget, and a schedule with them well in advance. Don’t be afraid to sit down with them on a video call and talk them through what you’re thinking and be prepared to answer any questions and go through any ideas they have.
Remember: they want to get this right too, so be open and honest, and try to relax! You may have to wait a little while before you can have the big day you’ve been dreaming of, so you’ve got plenty of time to make sure that everything is absolutely perfect.
Photo credit: Ideal Imaging by Alistair Jones
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