1. The Right Vibe

Find a photographer you are comfortable with, and you enjoy having around. Book a consultation to see how you vibe. Is the photographer someone you enjoy talking with or are they someone you can’t wait to stop talking? On your wedding day, your photographer will be following you around ALL day…all day…with a camera.

2. Look at their portfolio

Every photographer has their own shooting and editing style. Make sure their style is the style you want for your wedding photos. If you ask your photographer to change their style, there is a good chance that they will not. Many photographers have spent years to find the style that fits their brand. Not only that, but many photographers may not be confident in changing their style to another.

3. Are they comfortable with using flash?

Are you having your ceremony and/or reception indoors? If that’s the case, your photographer will likely need to use flash. There are many natural light photographers who create beautiful photographs, but who also dislike the use of flash. There are also many new photographers who are still learning to be confident in the use of flash. This is another reason to look at someone’s portfolio. Also, don’t be shy in asking about a photographer’s experience. The consultation is meant for you to ask these sorts of questions.

4. Do they have insurance?

There are many great photographers out there, but many of them do not have liability insurance. Unfortunately, many wedding venues will not allow you to hire a photographer who is not insured. Make sure to ask your photographer if they are insured so you don’t have to replace them at the last minute.

5. Be clear about your budget and be flexible

Photography prices have a large price range. There are some great budget friendly photographers and there are some great luxury photographers who not only produce great photos, but who also provide a great customer service experience. $3,000 for a day of photography may seem like a lot for a day of shooting but remember they will likely be spending weeks editing and retouching those images for you. So, when you are budgeting for a photographer, decide whether photos are a priority and what types of photos you are looking for.

6. Ask how long it will take to receive your images

Some photographers take on very few weddings so they can place greater focus on each wedding they book (which may be another reason why they have higher prices), but some photographers may take several weddings a month. The number of hours you book and whether you book a second shooter will also determine how long it will take to edit your photos. This is why some photographers will take less than a month to edit, while others may take several months. Ask in advance how long it will take so you won’t be surprised if it takes months to get your photos back.