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Arts & Entertainment

Wedding Tip of the Week: Capturing your Memories – How to Choose a Photographer

One of the most important parts of wedding planning: choosing a photographer to capture every precious moment of your big day!

Not only is it a big part of your , but photography is a HUGELY important part of your wedding day.  Your memories of your wedding day will surely be treasured, but the day goes by so quickly that you simply cannot take it all in properly– and besides that, you want enjoy the celebration– not walk around trying to take mental pictures of every part of it. 

Enter your shadow for the day– your photographer.  Choosing a photographer is one of the most important parts of your wedding planning.  Not only are you entrusting them to capture every precious moment of the big day, but you will also be spending a LOT of time with them so making sure you choose the right photographer for YOU is key.  A few suggestions to keep in mind when on the photographer hunt…

  • Style.  Are you looking for formal portraits, artsy interpretations, or photojournalistic look? Even more important than looking at a photographer’s website, you should check out their blog or, if they have one, their facebook page.  These less “stuffy” sites are going to give you better insight into the photographer’s personality and work.
  • Reviews.  There are so many great resources out there to give photography reviews.  Wedding planning websites, blogs, and review sites make it easy to can search for feedback on a photographer but I still think that word of mouth is the best.  Don’t be afraid to ask a photographer for referral information– a quick chat or e-mail exchange with a former bride is 100 percent worth it.  (Beware of some “recommended vendor lists” as many of them photographers can buy their way on to.)
  • Know yourselves and know your photographer.  Are you (or your fiancé) camera shy or do you love to ham it up?  Identifying and accepting your comfort level with getting your picture taken is so important– as is meeting your photographer in person before booking them.  They literally will be your shadow all day so getting along with them is so important!
  • Budget.  Be realistic and honest with yourselves and the photographer on what you can afford.  Not all photographers post their rates online, so a friendly e-mail expressing how much you like their work and asking for some pricing information is appropriate.  For a photographer whom you know may be slightly out of our price range again, a friendly email expressing that you are working within a specific budget, is appropriate.  Whatever you do I would suggest not trying to overtly bargain with a photographer as you do not want to insult him/her, but you may be surprised by how many will work something out for you within your price range, or perhaps suggest another great photographer for you to look into.   
  • Photography Package Add On’s.  My top two choices if you have room in your budget: 1) invest in a package with a second shooter, and 2) do an engagement shoot. A second shooter to me is a no-brainer– the more opportunities for great photos the better.  An engagement shoot is a fantastic way to get used to being in front of the camera, get to know your photographer, and gives you an opportunity to have some great more casual shots of you as a couple.

Where are you in your wedding planning?  Looking for any specific tips?  Leave me a note and let me know what wedding advice would be helpful to you! Newly married or engaged?  Share your news in the Announcements!

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Author Erin Ethier is a shoreline CT resident who writes a daily wedding blog Sparkle & Hay: Inspirations for a Rustic Chic Wedding

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