8 Important Elements in Choosing Your Wedding Photographer

Congratulations on your big day! Now, it's on to planning. This includes the venue, catering, dresses, and so on, and most importantly: your photographer.

As I am sure you have noticed there are a ton of wedding photographers out there ranging in all price ranges. In any wedding, of course, it is important to stay within a budget and photographers understand this.

In looking for the ideal photographer for your special day, there are a few elements that you and your significant other have to take in to consideration aside from budget (please, please, don't let this be your determining factor).

Here are the elements to consider:

• Chemistry- your wedding photographer will be around you more than anyone else so you have to make sure that there is the right chemistry and you are comfortable with the photographer. Communication is the key. I always think that it is essential to have an engagement session with the photographer to make sure your personalities mesh. Please make sure that this will be the actual photographer at your wedding.


• Skill set- one of the biggest misconceptions that we have is that if you went to school for photography, you should be a great photographer. This is not necessarily the case. A wedding photographer takes a special skill set, which is a blend portraiture and imagination, being able to think and react quickly to a situation. Also, make sure to find out how post production will be dealt with. You should find out if the photographer will do any editing, cropping, re-touching of the photos.


• Pricing- Expensive is not always better. Although there are truly talented wedding photographers out there, it doesn't necessarily have to cost you thousands of dollars. There are photographers out there who are looking to develop their portfolio, who won't charge as much, so be on the look out for that. Also, pay attention to the packages that are included. I always recommend, if you are looking to stay within a budget, have your photographer give you a CD with the photos and print them out yourself.


• Equipment- Ask about the following items: backup camera, backup batteries for the camera and flash, back up memory card. These are critical in covering a wedding. Also, you can find out if the photographer has additional equipment such as lighting, tripod.


• Poses vs. Photojournalistic- This will depend on your taste as far as photography styles go. Some people have a preference for the traditional shots and poses, while others prefer the candid moments. Most photographers will be able to blend the styles. If you do choose to have poses, I would recommend having some poses figured out during the engagement session.


• Sites- Once you know where you will have your ceremony and reception, I recommend going to the places with your photographer to think of different locations as a backdrop for photos (make sure it is around the same time that you will be taking photos i.e. Photos sessions will take place at 4:30 pm; make sure that you scout the place around the same time for lighting purposes.)


• Timing- Make sure to have factored in ahead of time when you would like to have your photo shots. Also, providing your photographer with a timeline will allow for him/her to cover everything to the best of their ability.


• Have fun- It's your big day! Have faith that you photographer will do his/her job!