We asked top wedding photographer and friend of The Halston, Joshua Wyborn to share his top tips for choosing your perfect wedding photographer.
“One of the only things to last longer than your wedding day is your wedding photographs. The tricky part is finding someone to take them! While we can go into depth on this subject, I honestly believe it breaks down to 5 simple tips. After all you want future generations to look at your photographs like you do when you see your parents or grandparents wedding albums – not many other things can do that.”
1. Style
As a couple decide what kind of photographs you’re looking for. For example, do you want a timeless look, or a bold, edgy, ultra-modern feel? Once you have decided on a look both you want it will help refine your search from the get-go. Make sure you see more than just a few images, try and see at least three full weddings. This will show you how reliable the photographer is at delivering their images and style.
2. Personality
Your photographer’s personality is a huge part of how your day feels. We have all been to a wedding where the photographer was so demanding that it put everyone off! Emails are great, phone calls are also great, but nothing is better than meeting your photographer in person or even by Skype as I do with my long distance clients. You will know if they are right for you after a short chat. Also feel free to be open about your worries and questions. Your photographer should be able to answer all of your questions and help guide you.
3. Word of Mouth
Word of mouth travels fast, and so does the reputation of the photographer, for good or for bad.
Ask friends or family who are married what they liked or didn’t like about their wedding photographer. Use that as research for questions to ask your potential photographer.
4. Experience
At the end of the day, you won’t have done the ‘wedding thing’ as often as us photographers who do it several times a month. It’s good to find out how and why they started to photograph weddings. Check that they have moved with the times and are not stuck in their mindset or work, Unless you’re into that kind of thing…
5. Price
I am always asked why wedding photographers charge what they do. Simply it’s because your wedding photographer will be working on your wedding for easily a week, maybe more. Travel, accommodation, camera kit, insurance, website up-keep, tax, etc. All of this adds up to the total cost. Price can often be the ultimate deciding factor for a lot of brides and grooms. Although it is an important consideration, it should not be the basis for your decision. Higher prices do not always guarantee the highest quality, but likewise, low pricing does not always mean low quality. If you stick to the above tips you should be more than confident and happy with your choices.
