What should I look for in a wedding photographer?

It’s your special day and it’s important that you like and trust your photographer. The first time that you meet the photographer shouldn’t be on your wedding day! Always meet the photographer first as they will be an integral and important part of the day. Before the wedding it’s usual to chat with the photographer about the type of photographs taken, the  styles that are preferred and any special requests, such as a photograph with a favourite granny.

The engagement portrait

Some wedding photographers offer an engagement portrait, this is more than just a portrait of the couple, it’s an excellent icebreaker and more importantly it allows the couple to get used to being photographed.

The set of photographs from the engagement portrait session can be used to determine the bride or grooms 'best side' and how to photograph aspects they may not like about themselves. So that on the day the couple are relaxed in front of the camera and the photographer knows exactly how to photograph the couple to their best advantage.

Consistency

A wedding photographer must be able to take consistent photographs of a certain standard. Ask to see a entire wedding album rather than a selection of best shots. Do you like the photographer’s style?

Styles of wedding photography

There are two main styles of photography, traditional and reportage style. Reportage, the new buzzword in wedding photography, aims to capture the atmosphere of the day and is an informal documentary of the occasion. Although reportage shots look natural they are often posed.

Some shots, such as the groups must be posed in the traditional way, although they can be done in a more relaxed, less formal manner. The group shots are very important, as a wedding is often one of the few occasions the whole family is gathered together. The bride and grooms parents often prefer the classic style of the traditional group shots.

How many photographers?

Will there be just one photographer or two? Two photographers can capture more moments than one, for example while one photographer is doing the formal group shots, the other can be capturing the atmosphere among the guests. They should work together in a focused yet unobtrusive way.

Colour or black and white?

Do you prefer colour or black and white, or a mixture of both? Can the photographer offer this? Those offering a digital service can easily switch between colour and black and white as the shot determines. They may also offer sepia or trendy blue toning.

Quality

What are the final quality of the prints like? Are they archival? Is there a choice of wedding albums offered?

Digital

Will the wedding photos be available to view on the web for family and friends? With most people having Internet access, this is an ideal way to show the wedding photos to friends and family that may not live locally, or even in the same country!

Is digital enhancement important to you? Do you want the option to have spots and blemishes airbrushed out? Laughter lines can be toned down but I it's important that the person still looks like you. Digital nose jobs will not be performed, unless requested!  An advantage of digital is that colour images can be converted to black and white, sepia or blue toned depending on preference.

Price

Finally when asking about price, how much of the photographers time does the price include? Usually shots before the wedding of the bride getting ready and photography at the reception are extra. Are reprint prices reasonable?

For further information and to check availably please contact

For prices, please check wedding packages