What to Remember When Choosing a Wedding Photographer

Selecting a wedding photographer is not quite the same as shopping for an outfit or even choosing your bridal bouquet. Unfortunately, you cannot see the pictures that you are paying for before you make a decision. For many brides-to-be, the deciding factor for choosing a photographer is price, which is not always a good idea, considering you have no second opportunities to capture your wedding.

The following are some basic guidelines designed to help you choose the wedding photographer that is right for you and your big day.

Recommendations

To begin, compile a list of several different photographers; gather names from friends and family that have referrals to share. Individuals who have had positive experiences and been pleased with their photographs are always more than happy to share the photographer's name with you. Inquire of friends that have recently gotten married to see if they were pleased with their wedding photographer.

Websites

Most photographers will have a website that you can consult, with galleries of their work posted. Carefully review the photos (not the actual website design) to get a feel for the style and abilities. Good, reputable photographers will often show full wedding albums online, from start to finish, to give you ideas and a sense of their work. Many will also have pricing information and available packages listed as well. Use the website as a frame of reference when you are considering photographers to contact and meet with.

Call

Once you have narrowed down the list, now is time to conduct initial phone interviews. This will enable you to get key pieces of information, such as their availability on the wedding day or what type of photography they specialize in (candid, traditional, etc.). You can also get a sense of their personality; are they outgoing, responsive, and friendly? Keep looking if they are not any of those things.

Meetings

Make appointments with each Utah photographer that sounds promising so you can discuss further details and see if they are a right fit for shooting your wedding. The meeting should include of course the bride and groom, but perhaps (if possible) the bride's parents or whoever is actually paying for the photographer's services. Take notes during the meeting to make sure you know all the details about the services and preferences of each photographer you meet with.