How to choose a wedding photographer in 3 easy steps.
Wherever you are in your wedding planning, you’ll come to realise that there are just some things that cannot be decided upon on your budget alone. Wedding photography is one of them. It’s really important that you are happy with your wedding photos, they last forever. It’s often the biggest wedding regret that I hear from those who are already married; that they didn’t invest enough in their wedding photography. I’m not just talking about money here. I am talking about taking the time to research the style they wanted and taking the time to talk to the wedding photographer beforehand.
Once you know the style of wedding photography you are after then take a look at my 3 easy steps to take when it comes to choosing a wedding photographer. I refer to them as the 3 p’s.
Remember these three p’s please and you’ll be well on your way to cherishing your images!
How to choose a wedding photographer, Step #1: Check out their PORTFOLIO.
When you’re looking at a photographer’s portfolio, you’ll see some beautiful photos. They will grab ya by the (eye)balls and impress you. I do it daily, if not hourly. It’s my world after all - I know and see a lot of photographer’s work. However, that ‘wow’ photo aside, what’s their full wedding day gallery like? What will a whole wedding day look like if you book them?
When a couple enquires with me, I give them access to a password protected online gallery where they get to see full wedding galleries from my past clients who have permitted this. This is so you know what to expect when you book me. I share with you a number of weddings ranging from a short intimate wedding to a whopping big country house wedding. I want you to see that alongside my ‘wow’ photos you will get a wedding day story – a consistent one. One you will cherish.
How to choose a wedding photographer, Step #2: Check out their PERSONALITY
Okay, so now you have shortlisted down the photographers by the style and photos you like. It’s time to find out more about them as a person.
You’ve probably seen those funny flow charts all about how to choose who to invite as your guests, right? Regardless, you’ve sat down and really thought about who want there. Just imagine, you’ve got the wedding tipi sorted, fairy lights, the pizza van and bouncy castle. Then the wedding photographer you booked a year ago arrives suited and booted, with 6-inch heels. Not only do they look out of place but they feel out of place too. You and your wedding party are not about chair covers, throwing garters or releasing doves, but the wedding photographer is checking the running order and asking when you want these bits photographed. Cringe.
I mean their portfolio looked okay, they were all weddings so you guessed they were a professional. They most probably are. But, now…. looking back at the portfolio, maybe they just weren’t your professional wedding photographer. They don’t quite get you and your relaxed wedding style. And what’s more, they didn’t take the time to get to know you and your partner beforehand.
Talk to the photographer before booking. Your wedding photographer will be by your side throughout the day. They will see all the tears, laughter, the bras and boxers, the sniff of snot and maybe even a stressful outburst. You need to be comfortable with them while they are there. You need to ensure that you will enjoy having them there.
50% of couples who book me have explored my website fully before jumping on Facetime chat, met me at a wedding fayre or I was recommended to them by a venue or friend. The other 50% fell in love with me over on my Instagram stories (where I live!) and have been chatting to me for a while over DM's.
When I meet a couple, alongside being professional and answering all your questions of course, we get to know each other. You’ll see I’m friendly and fuelled by, for the majority, cake and coffee! You’ll also see that I love what I do and I love weddings. When a couple choose me I want them to know this and click with me.
Please do not choose me because ‘I’ll do’ to capture your ‘I do’s’.
When you book me as your wedding photographer I like to stay in contact, be social media buddies and may even send you a card in the post! When I work, know that I like to be prepared, will melt away into the background whilst being by you and your fiancés side for the majority of the day. I will also totally cry if you write your own vows.
How to choose a wedding photographer, Step #3: Check out their PRICES.
Wedding photography prices vary greatly. According to the annual Bridebook wedding report, wedding photography on average costs £1600-£3500 depending on where you are in the country. Not only do prices vary greatly due to area, photographers’ skill and time they give but so does what you get in your package. As such, it's a difficult thing to compare. A photographer's price encompasses a wide range of factors. What I can say is that avoid booking a photographer based on 'value for money' or what free bits are included. Engagement shoots, albums, online galleries, USB's, printed canvas bag, free face-painting and a magic mirror with props are all secondary to the photos that will be taken. Find someone you want and who loves what they do. Find someone you feel relaxed with and can trust. Find out from their past clients. We live in a world of reviews, all accessible, go read them. And if you hire them and were happy then leave your own review to help the next couple about to book!
My prices are transparent and available to see on my website over here. You don't have to enquire to find out how much I cost! My price reflects my quality, my personal and dedicated service, my wealth of experience and skill, and peace of mind. I offer by-the-hour and a full-day package, meaning you can choose an option that suits you best.
Build it up or go all in.
No Fishing….not ‘no flashing’.
So how to choose a wedding photographer? Follow my 3 p's: Portfolio, Personality & Prices.
Do yo' research, love the work of the wedding photographer you book and get to know them to see if you click. Avoid asking generic questions you found in a bridal magazine article. Ask questions about what matters to you and to see if it matters to your wedding photographer. Then factor in the cost. Remember, long after the meal is finished, the cake is eaten and the day is done your photos are all that will be left of the day. Understand that wedding photography is a worthwhile investment.
There are some good photographers out there with stunning portfolios, good prices and availability but if you contact them and get off the phone call thinking ‘OMG, I cannot stand them.’ Then don’t.
Yes, that's me and my 'unimpressed' face after I got off the phone.
If you like my portfolio, like my personality and like my prices then contact me to check my availability for your wedding day. Let’s get the ball rolling! Once you get in touch, I will share FULL wedding day galleries with you and pencil in a face to face chat. Whilst you wait for my reply, check out my testimonials from my past couples over here.
Gina xoxo
