Ten tips for choosing a wedding photographer

1. Wedding fairs are not always the best place to find your photographer. Ask for photographer recommendations from family, friends and co-workers. Even better if you’ve been to a wedding and liked the way the photographer worked and what he or she produces in the end…. then grab his or her card!

2. Is your photographer a member of a professional organisation (such as the SWPP,BIPP or MPA) and do they hold a qualification within that organisation? Groups like these aim to encourage high professional standards and ethics in photography as well as providing training and development for even the most seasoned professional.

3. Interview at least three different photographers. This will give you a better understanding of what is on offer and how each photographer likes to work. How experienced is the photographer? Are they full time professionals or weekend warriors? (It’s a little unfair of me to pick on part-timers who are looking at getting experience as we all have to start somewhere. But it’s worth considering that a full time professional RELIES on you being happy with their work, whereas a part-timer shooting a handful of wedding year might just be hoping for some extra pocket money).

4. The price should not be the only determining factor, but you should know what fees you will be charged for what services. How long will the photographer shoot for, will you have to pay extra for longer? What is the quality of the final product?

5. Ask for references and don’t always trust testimonials on websites. If a photographer is reluctant to share these then that should raise some alarm bells.

6. What type of camera does the photographer use? And more importantly do they carry a backup? Even the most expensive cameras break down from time to time.

7. Always make sure you have a contract stating all the details of what you have agreed. These should include not only who will be taking the photos but also for how long and where. Remember that it’s not what is said but rather what is written that counts.

8. What type of photography do you want? A ‘reportage’ style does not mean that the photographer will be unobtrusive. Get a feel for how the photographer likes to work and whether you are comfortable with that style. Sometimes it is worth asking for a no obligation engagement shoot. This will not only give you a chance to see the photographer in action but you will also have some great shots for the invitations!

9. When can you expect to see some proofs and receive delivery of the final work? This might not be important for many people but at least you will have an idea of when to expect your pictures.

10. (Most of the time) You pay for what you get. Remember that apart from a dress that you’ll never wear again, the photographs are all that will remain from your big day. If you’re spending three times more on flowers than you are on photography then something is not quite right there!

Good luck searching everybody! Book your photographer early and make sure your decision is an informed one!