We had our expert photographers give us some of their best advice in Part 1 of our Series on “How to Choose a Wedding Photographer”. So now that you’ve learned about how you need to “click” with your photographer, read on to find out the next tip on choosing a wedding photographer from the experts!
And, be sure to check out the other tips featured in Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4 and Part 5 of series on “How to Choose a Wedding Photographer”.
Know the Style You’re Looking For
“When choosing a photographer, think about what it is that you want to see when you look at your photos 20 years from now. Do you want that picture of when the photographer told you to stand in front of the fountain and look at each other? Or do you want that photo of the look in your eyes, the first time you saw your new partner for life, on the biggest day of your lives. A photojournalistic style is meant to capture those special moments, and a more traditional style is meant to take more formal shots through out the day.”
– Gino of Gino Siller Photography, Longmont CO
“Make sure that you as a Client and your Photographer are on the same page about the meaning of “Photojournalistic and Documentary” style Photography. Many times there are different meanings between the two of you. :)”
– Adele of Abigail Reese Photography
Columbia, South Carolina
“The photojournalists approach is to create a story-telling sequence for the couple to remember their day by. It requires the photographer to be versatile in their skills as they adapt for each moment. This allows them to record the day, yet remain as unobtrusive as possible. The photojournalist CAPTURES the image.”
– Eric Limón of Eric Limón Photography, Housatonic, MA
“Choosing the right photographer is a matter of taste! There are lots of great photographers across the U.S. There are many different types of wedding photography. We’ve all heard the buzzwords… photo journalistic, contemporary, magazine style, traditional. It all boils down to liking what you see. Look at the photographer’s most recent weddings. Most photographers call these “featured weddings” on their website. In most cases, this represents the photographer’s photographic style.
Does the photographer you are considering photograph in the style that you like? If not, are they experienced in other types of wedding photography…and willing to photograph in that style. If not, then you should consider another photographer. You will treasure you photographs for decades. In essence, they become your first family heirloom. Your wedding portraits should showcase your wedding day beauty and romance in a style that is reflective of who you are and what you envisioned.”
– Cheryl of Mauldin Photography Newport, Arkansas
“Brides, look for a photographer that fits your personality. Someone that will not only take the types of pictures you want, but is GOOD at those types of photographs.”
– Steve of Steve Austin Photography, Alabaster AL
“When selecting a wedding photographer, one of the first things you want to ask yourself is, “What style of photography will best suit my needs?”
There are many different types of photographers, with many different styles. You can have the traditional style, which is the most prominent and includes a variety of different poses in different locations to portray the love between you and your partner.
Another style is photojournalistic. Capturing all of the details and telling the story of your wedding day in all its intricacies – before, during, and after. This is a great way for you to remember by seeing your day played out from many different perspectives and many different times.
The fine art perspective is the ultimate attention to detail when it comes to wedding photography. Many photographers do offer this, however few can follow through on this claim unless they have a background in fine art. Making each photo a work of art is the passion of most photographers, and is also the desire of many brides & grooms.
Keep an eye out for these styles, among others, when looking for a wedding photographer. My suggestion would be a combination of all three so you have alot of variety in your photos when it is all said and done.
Ask your photographer for samples of their work, if they offer products such as storybook albums, or even sample prints, so you can see firsthand the quality you can expect. You deserve to see what your final product is going to look like.”
– Noah of Noah J Orr Photography, Honolulu, HI
“Your choice of a photographer should take into account how you want to spend your wedding day. How much posing do you want to do, and how much do you prefer to simply celebrate with your loved ones and have it recorded sensitively and beautifully. Essentially, would you rather the photographs bring back memories of a joyful day or an extended photo shoot? Ask photographers how they see the flow of the day, how they define their role in directing it, what relative importance they give to your wishes as opposed to their ideas, and what they look for as they watch you and your guests interacting.
As many have said, it is important to have a photographer that you’re comfortable spending time with, but never ask a photographer that you “really like” to shoot in a style other than his or her own.”
– Art Ferrier Creative Photography
Nashua, New Hampshire
“Talk to your photographer about what you really want to see in your wedding album. Your photographer will get some idea of your personality after initially consulting with you, but in the end, it’s your wedding album that will last you for years — make sure that you and the photographer agree on how you want your album to look and feel. There are so many options out there, both in quality and price, so make sure you talk with your photographer about all your options.
And most of all, relax and enjoy your very special day. Remember — when it’s all over, no matter what happens, you and your special someone will be married!”– Michele of MW Johnson Photography, Lookout Mountain, TN
Photo Credits: Stoilov Studio, Catharine Morris Photography
>> How to Choose a Wedding Photographer Part 3: Take Your Time
<< How to Choose a Wedding Photographer Part 1: Make Sure You "Click"
