How to Choose a Wedding Photographer

Selecting a wedding photographer is easier said than done. If you make a mistake, you may find out too late. Our experience with brides has given us some insight in how to choose a wedding photographer; to get the photos you want, in the manner you want, consider four main points when choosing your wedding photographer:

style, technique, rapport and budget

Style
Are you looking for edgy, modern photos? or more traditional photos? Whatever you want, it is likely there is a photographer out there with your style.

The buzz word in wedding photography these days is "photojournalism" or "reportage" style photography. The general idea is that the photographer acts as a photojournalist would, documenting the day without interfering with your wedding. With this style you'll get candid photos with minimal intrusion by the photographer.

More traditional style photography calls for more interaction between the photographer and subject. The photographer may set up poses or re-enact moments. Group and formal photos are nearly always shot in this style.

Most wedding photographers will fit into one of these two categories or a mixture of both. However, even within a category you can find a great range of styles. Do your research. If you are looking for a more modern look, look for photographers offering Trash the Dress sessions and fashion-style photography.

Technique
All photographers are not created equal and it is important to consider the technical mastery of your photographer. When viewing a photographer's portfolio, take a look at their photos. You should see good skin tones (no green skin!), well exposed and nicely composed photos. Be wary of blurry photos and strange shadows on faces (raccoon eyes, anyone?). Online portfolios are a great way to see a photographer's work and make it easy to compare photographers.

Rapport
You love their style and their technique is great! Now what? Meet with your potential photographer. They should be someone you want to talk to and interact with. Remember, this person will be with you most of your wedding day; you want to get along with them well. Good rapport with your photographer will not only make your wedding day easier but will improve your photos. If you like the person on the other side of the lens, you'll be more relaxed and look better.

Budget
In wedding photography, you typically get what you pay for. As an example, one hour of wedding photography can involve at another four hours post production and a large amount of computer and professional photography equipment. Photographers vary significantly in the amount of time they spend on your photos and how much they invest in their equipment.

Most brides allocate between 10-15% of their budget on photography; however, there is no set rule. Don't forget that after the wedding, the cake will be eaten and the flowers will wilt, but the photos will last forever.

If you follow these tips, you should find a wedding photographer that suits you. Good luck!

Written by Kayhan Photography, www.kayhan.co.uk