What to look for in a wedding photographer

Aging

Okay, this may seem odd to you... Why would aging be a part of this list? Well, why wouldn't it be? Just think about why you are hiring a wedding photographer in the first place. To preserve memories of course!

If the photographer doesn't capture them correctly, they will age much faster than they should. You will look back on your photos 10 or more years down the road and you won't think the same way about them compared to when the photos were delivered to you.

What to look for?

Beware of trendy photographers! The market contains way too many of these creatives. Just know that once these trends die, so do the pictures.

Yeah, that might be a pretty bold statement, but keep that in mind. Try to find a photographer that captures their images creatively, but also true to life (aka, natural photography).

Styles

Styles are tricky because you don't want to confuse them with trends. Everyone has a unique style, but they usually fall into a style domain. For example, photojournalism, classic, traditional, fashion, etc. Find out what style you like best (that isn't a trend) and go from there.

As a note, styles have little to do with color and editing. Yes, that very grainy, warm look you see everywhere on Instagram is a trend.

Pay attention to the angles, composition, directing (aka posing), lighting, and the like.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR?

Consistency is key here! Look at the photographer's portfolio and imagine in your head if that would be the way you wanted your wedding to be captured.

Responsibility

You need to hire a competent business person that is going to handle the job well. Photographers that are competent will responsibly manage all the following:

Paperwork - this shouldn't be a stressful part of your vendor process. Your photographer should effortlessly handle all of the quotes, contracts, invoices, photo galleries, photo permits, correspondences, etc.

Security - keeping all of your sensitive information confidential, and having an archive backup of all your pictures.

Communication - having a way to contact your photographer is important. For example at Dupon Photography, Gabriel responds to messages usually within 6 hours (24 hours at the latest), and always is available to hop on a call to talk about literally anything.

Professionalism - anyone that isn't respectful or is a jerk isn't someone you want to work with. Work with someone with an impeccable work ethic, that doesn't drink at your wedding, shows up early, is well-dressed, has a positive attitude, and all of the likes.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR?

Make sure the photographer you are working with is being professional. This includes proper data wrangling, insurance, emergency plans, and a good reputation, among other things.

By actually talking with the photographer you can learn a lot about their professionalism. You can also do some research if you really want to make sure.

Also, take note of how they respond to your emails or calls. Are they excited? Lazy? Personal? Generic? Informative? Irritated?

Quality

This is all pretty basic information here. Make sure the photographer you are working with is competent and can actually take good photographs (consistently).

WHAT TO LOOK FOR?

Honestly, you will know if the photographer is good or not pretty easily. A great way to really find out is to ask to see a full wedding gallery! These are almost always online and shouldn't be a problem for a photographer to send you access to one.

Budget

No surprises here, but if you can't afford it then you can't get it. Making a shortlist of photographers that are within your budget is a great place to start!

Pricing can be flexible with your wedding, you just need to ask what you really need. Will you require 10 hours of coverage or will 6 hours be enough? Is the second photographer really necessary? Should you get that premium album or can you go without it?

Asking yourself questions like that will help narrow down what you need in your package. And work with your photographer here. They should help you work with a budget!

WHAT TO LOOK FOR?

Not all photographers have prices on their websites. However, you can have a pretty good idea of what price range of photography they are in by looking at their website.

Typically, photographers that don't have prices on their websites are trying to attract higher-end brides.

After that, go ahead and contact them to set up a meeting!

Details

Make sure you are getting the service that you had in mind. What one photographer provides may be completely different compared to another photographer. Make sure you confirm these details with the photographer to avoid frustration down the road.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR?

Go through their website and ask them any questions if necessary. Some example questions include:

Are digital files provided?

Is a print release included or do I have to purchase prints only from you?

How long will it take to receive the gallery?

How much would it cost for you to travel to my wedding?

Availability

This one is pretty obvious. If the photographer you want isn't available for your wedding date, then you are going to need to find an alternative option.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR?

Make sure the photographer is actually available on your wedding date by contacting them. Remember that they won't usually hold that date for long unless you commit to signing a contract.

If you have any questions let me know!

If you are interested in Dupon Photography's wedding services, feel free to get in touch! I would love to work with you!

Thanks for reading!

Sincerely,

Gabriel Dupon