As an art form, photography is a powerful way to capture the essence of a moment. The money invested in hiring a reputable, professional photographer for your wedding day helps avoid the risk of lost moments, blurry faces and the inevitable red-eye that so often characterizes snapshots taken by untrained shutterbugs—as much as your Uncle Albert with his 35mm camera means well!
Here's help to take you through the process of finding a wedding photographer that suits your style.
- Word-of-mouth goes a long way, so start by relying on family and friends who have already exchanged "I Dos" and can recommend a reputable studio or freelance photographer.
- Attend a wedding show, and look at the different styles of photography to decide which ones appeal to your eye.
- Interview several photographers, and select someone who makes you feel very comfortable. When you "click" with the photographer, chances are your photos will also look more natural.
- Before you hire, it's important to closely consider the portfolio of anyone you are thinking of enlisting for the job. Consider the following when looking at their work: Are there a variety of poses and expressions illustrated? Do the people look relaxed? Is there a variety of locations and set-ups? The final choice of photographer will be influenced by your taste in photography and the theme of your wedding day.
- Don't overlook the possibility of black and white photos—they remain classic and can be very dramatic. Some studios charge additional fees for black and white film, so just make certain you agree on what your package includes.
What to Ask Before You Pick a Shooter
- Can you see samples of the photographer's wedding work? If you're dealing with a studio, will the person you speak with during a consultation actually be the photographer assigned to your wedding day?
- How much experience has the photographer had with weddings? Ask for testimonials or client referrals and call a couple of these references.
- How are fees charged: by the hour or for a flat-fee package? Make certain to detail any additional costs; from special techniques used, to types of wedding albums that will be provided, right down to the photographers' travel or parking expenses.
- What options are available? Can your photographs be a combination of colour and black and white? Do you prefer matte or glossy finishes?
- Can they suggest a location for pictures to be taken between the ceremony and the reception?
- How will the photographer and his or her assistant dress on the day of the wedding?
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Posted by andreasphoto on November 18, 2009 at 1:47 p.m.
I just stumbled upon this page. This is possibly the best advice for anyone that doesn't know anything about photography. The fact that you're keeping current is a real benefit as well - so many "photography guides" on the internet do nothing but confuse couples.
When looking for photography on the internet, keep in mind that many photographers try to keep up with the trends, making separating their style or "art" very difficult - definitely meet the photographer in person to see how they work, who they are, and if you feel comfortable investing in their work. Photography is an art, not a simple service.
Andreas
Posted by Roslyn on November 23, 2009 at 4:47 p.m.
My favourite photographer in Toronto is Aaron Harris. Hopefully, my fiance and I will be able to book him well in advance of our wedding in June, 2011. Seeing as how both of us won't be graduating until Spring, 2010, we can't presently afford to arrange his excellent professional services for our big day. We first became aware of his talent when a friend informed us about his affiliation and photographic work with the world's most popular band, U2.
If he's good enough to have his work accepted by our favourite band, he's definitely good enough for us.
Posted by Elisha and Mike Himmelman on December 7, 2009 at 11:54 a.m.
On July 12th 2008, My husband and I were married in my home town of Louisdale, Cape Breton. We asked Michelle Campbell, a photographer from our area to photograph our wedding.
Michelle is a brilliant photographer who, since our wedding, has become a wonderful friend of our family. Michelle met with us a few days before our wedding day to get to know us and to find out exactly what we were looking for in our pictures. Michelle captured so many amazing moments that day and created a DVD and album that we will have to treasure for the rest of our lives. She went above and beyond for our family and for that we will forever be grateful! Michelle . She is very professional and I would recommend her photography services to anyone!
Visit her site at http://www.michelle-campbell.ca
Posted by Marie on January 10, 2010 at 7:31 p.m.
Found a fantastic photographer on PEI, unfortunately he was booked for our wedding date this year but his work is amazing and he came highly recommended.
His site is www.aaronmacdougall.ca
Posted by reolphotography.com on January 24, 2010 at 9:46 a.m.
This is a well-written, concise list for couples to keep in mind when selecting their wedding photographer. With the massive influx of new wedding shooters onto the scene, a face to face meeting with a prospective wedding photographer before you sign a contract is crucial to determine if there is chemistry between you, and if they have that special energy that leads to great photos.
For couples interested in a documentary or photojournalistic style of photography especially (but really this applies to any situation!), take advantage of packages providing you with more than one photographer. The ability to be in two places at once can be indispensable, not just for larger weddings, but for those "getting ready" photos of the bride and groom at separate locations at the same time as well.
Posted by Kim on March 1, 2010 at 9:37 p.m.
On December 31, 2009 my fiance and I had rung in the New Year by tying the knot. We had hired Michelle Campbell a photographer from Port Hawkesbury. Michelle was such a pleasure to work with. Her easy going personality made it a cinch to work with her. She offered some helpful advice\ideas before the wedding. This was fantastic because she had so much to offer. Michelle was more than willing to discuss ideas for photographs. We had hired her for overtime and had a photo booth set up down back in a corner. Michelle was so excited to do the photo booth. All our guests now have memories to last a lifetime! Everyone loved it! The images themselves were breathtaking. Her mixture of natural and posed shots were incredible. The shots done outside were exquisite. We couldn't have asked for anything more. We knew that she was making us a DVD slide show; however, we were unaware that she was making copies for our parents. What a nice surprise! Our parents were thrilled. We are so pleased with her work, that we are highly recommending her.
Visit her website at http://www.michelle-campbell.ca
Posted by Melissa on February 6, 2011 at 1:31 p.m.
This is a great article and what every bride and groom should know. We got the best of both worlds when we found Jeremy Clark in London,Ontario. He was charming and professional. His prices and level of photography was unsurpassed.... for London anyway. My new Husband and I we so lucky to find him. I hope everyone can take the time to read this article on the importance of seeking out the best fit for their wedding day. Don't be fooled by Kijiji and Creigs list photographers that just bought a camera and think that they can shoot a wedding. In twenty years we'll remember our day because we chose not to skimp on that day thanks to Jeremy. Good luck in your search brides!! Jeremy's work and fantastic prices can be found at Http://www.jeremyclark.ca
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