|
WeddingPhotographers:
HowDoYouPick?
Emma Smallbone, of
barebonephoto knows how
difficult it can be for couples to try to compare and choose
the wedding photographer that's right for them. That's why
Emma has created her own personal 'cheat sheet' to help you
interview and choose your wedding photographer.
Be prepared
After researching a few photographers on the internet,
through referrals or local searches, make a short list. Make
an appointment and ask lots of questions. Remember the
photographs are one of the only things left after the
wedding, and they can help you relive your wedding day for
years to come.
Questions to ask:
• Describe your style.
An experienced photographer
will have a really good sense of what they do well, as well
as a portfolio to back it up.
• How long have you been shooting weddings?
Timing
and quick thinking during weddings are important. And if
they haven't covered a wedding before they may miss a key
moment - the kiss for instance.
• Where did you get your training?
This may vary and can be confusing. College and University
are a plus. Many photographers will get their best education working as
an assistant for another wedding photographer.
• Will you have an assistant?
An assistant can make
the day go so much more smoothly, and they will sometimes
act as a second photographer, allowing you to get
photographs from more than one vantage point.
• Are there any extras or hidden costs that are not
included in your packages?
These can include mileage or
charges for extra film or time.
• How much time you need for formal shots?
This varies according to the style the photographer. A
traditional photographer may need two to four hours. A
photojournalist may only need one hour. If you're on a tight
schedule it could make a your decision for you.
|
From The Ring...
Style: How to choose...
Because photography style terms can become misleading or
confusing, ask to see a wedding album that covers a full
wedding (start to finish) in what the photographer considers
to be the best sample of their shooting style.
Then ask yourself:
1. Do you like the style/overall appearance of the images?
2. Do you like the way the subjects are posed? (Ask the
photographer which photos are posed, and which are not).
3. Do you like the effects or photo finishes imposed on the
photos, such as borders, unique angles, number of sepia
versus black and white?
4. Could you imagine these images in your own wedding album?
-
Staff @ The Ring |
• Are there any specific requests you as the photographer
have?
Some request there are no other photographers at
your wedding. Including Bill your snap happy uncle. Others
want specific seating at the reception. If you want pictures
throughout they may want to be seated near the head table.
Things to look for:
Does the quality of their work meet your standards?
Options and quantity of prints are important, but if you
don't like the quality of the pictures, what good is a
second album or 500 extra proofs?
Can you see an entire wedding shot by your photographer?
Any photographer can have twenty great shots after shooting
for a couple of years. But seeing an entire wedding can show
you whether every shot is up to your standards.
Is this someone you want around on your wedding day?
You will be spending most of your day with them. Your
feeling towards them will come across in your pictures.
Trust your gut. If there is anything about them that rubs
you the wrong way, keep looking.
Communication is key.
Asking questions early will make sure there are no
surprises, and your album will be everything you dreamed it
would be.
-
Article courtesy of Emma Smallbone, barebonephoto.
For more on barebonephoto,
visit:
The K-W Ring
or
The Cambridge Ring. |
