How to Choose your Professional Wedding Photographer

Answers to the 22 most commonly asked questions on Wedding Photography - By Danny Steyn

2. How do I search for the Professional Wedding Photographer?
A recommendation is the best way to gain confidence in a professional wedding photographer. In the absence of a recommendation you will have to go looking. The fact that you are reading this article online indicates that you will most probably search for your professional wedding photographer on the internet. This is a good way to reach a large number of wedding photographers, and also to reach professional wedding photographers outside your immediate geographic area. A good professional wedding photographer will travel frequently to exotic wedding destinations for his clients. You can look for a local professional wedding photographer, or for a wedding photographer who will travel to your locale.

3. How do I narrow down the Professional Wedding Photographer Short List?
Examine the wedding photographerÕs portfolios whether they be at his premises or his online portfolios. Look for a style of wedding photography that suits your own particular style. Are you looking for traditional classic wedding photography, or do you want a more casual candid approach? Have you considered the photojournalistic style of wedding photography? A good professional wedding photographer is capable of offering all styles, but might specialize in one style. Look at what styles he offers in his wedding portfolios.

4. When do I speak with my Professional Wedding Photographer?
You do need to speak to your potential wedding photographer very early on in your planning process. Good professional wedding photographers are often booked up months and even years in advance. You need to secure your photographer as soon as possible. The way you are received on the phone should give you some indication of how you will be able to connect with the photographer in person. Having a close professional working relationship is a vital requirement. Be sure that your wedding photographer is approachable, calm, collected, listens to you and actually pays attention to your requests and questions. Establish whether your potential wedding photographers are available on your wedding date. Find out whether the marquee photographer (normally the owner of the business) will be doing your photography. It is important to note that the large wedding studios employ many second and even third tier photographers, one of whom may be assigned to your wedding. If you are not going to get the services of the marquee wedding photographer, establish who will be the actual photographer assigned to your wedding, and make sure that you see portfolios shot by the photographer that will be assigned to your wedding. Does the 2nd tier photographer have the technical expertise, the artistic expertise? Does the photographer have an eye for the memorable image?