The Four Ps
Perfect Style
Every couple has a unique story, and your photography should reflect it. Some prefer classic bridal portraits, while others want candid wedding photography or a photojournalistic approach. Some couples lean toward high-fashion artistry, while others want the focus on reception photography and real-life moments.
Here are a few styles to consider:
- Traditional bridal portraits
- Candid wedding moments that feel natural and authentic
- High-fashion editorial shots
- Fun and energetic reception coverage
Knowing what you want keeps you from hating these photos forever because the photographer focused on the wrong things. If you want, start an inspiration board on Pinterest, here’s our Pinterest to get you started. The next step is to look at the photographers in your area and see what they are creating. A wedding photographer captures what they see, and everyone sees things differently. If you don’t like what you see, move on. However, if their images make you stop and smile, then it’s time to set up a meeting.
Personality
Your wedding photographer is with you constantly from the beginning of your wedding day until almost the end! That is a lot of one-on-one time and close contact with someone. A bad personality in a photographer can ruin your whole day, so be sure to set up a meeting with your photographer ahead of time. A great way to see how a photographer will work with you is to have an engagement session with them.
This gives you beautiful images and lets you see if you like spending time with the photographer. You don’t have to be the best of friends, but being able to have fun with the photographer will make your day and your photos much better. Make sure that they are considerate, focused on you and your needs, and fun!
Professionalism
Beyond taking photos, your photographer interacts with vendors, family, and guests throughout the day. Experienced professionals know how to keep events flowing smoothly, from ceremony photography coverage to coordinating reception timelines.
Qualities of professional wedding photographers include:
- Strong organizational skills to keep events on schedule
- Ability to coordinate with DJs, planners, and vendors
- Courteous and respectful interactions with guests and family
- Quick problem-solving skills to adapt to unexpected challenges
Price
You need to know what pricing means to your wedding photographer. Some photographers’ prices include full-resolution digital images. Budget photographers may only deliver these to you with printing rights, but you may have to deal with all the printing yourself. Some photographers’ prices don’t include digital images at all and only offer print packages.
Usually, there is a combination of both and you will have to choose what you want and how many images you will need. Make sure that you know what you want and what you plan to do with the images. Also, talk with the photographer about their policy on digital sharing. Posting photos on the Internet without watermarking or credit may be a violation of the contract you sign with them, so know what their policy is so you know if that will work for you.
