DAY OF A LIFETIME
Ask yourself how this person will mesh with your friends and family, too. They should be professional, respectful, and know when to hang back, while also being bold enough to go after great shots and draw natural expressions from your guests. QUESTION & EVALUATE Only meet with photographers within your budget. It’s disappointing to fall in love with a photographer’s work only to later discover their rates exceed your spending allowance. At these meetings, ask to see a complete album of a wedding shot in a similar venue or with a style similar to yours. If you’re only gauging a photographer’s work off their online portfolio, you might be seeing a highlight reel. It’s best to get the whole picture. Have a critical eye when assessing wedding albums: Did they capture all the shots you’re hoping for? Are the images clear? How’s the composition? Is the lighting blown out, too dark, or just right? Some photographers are more skilled at capturing low-light images, so consider the time, season, and location of your wedding and chose a professional whose talents suit your needs. GET IT IN WRITING Photography packages vary from one professional to the next, so it’s critical to find out what’s included, as well as the cost of any add-ons. A photography package may or may not include the following: second shooters, additional hours, highres jpgs, photo albums, or engagement sessions. Some photographers offer such services a-la-carte, so you can choose only what’s of value to you. Speaking of files, ask any potential photographers how they back up your photos; if their answer doesn’t come 68 • PREMIER BRIDE • WINTER/SPRING 2022
swiftly and confidently, that can indicate a lack of professionalism. Also ask about their typical timeline for delivering proofs and final photos, and how you’ll receive them (small printed photos, an album, an online gallery, etc). Bear in mind that faster isn’t always better. Some professionals shoot weddings nonstop during the high season, then spend the next six months of the low season processing photos flawlessly. When you finally make your decision, get everything in writing. When is payment due? What’s the contingency plan should your photographer fall ill or have a family emergency? When will proofs be ready to view? Answering all of these questions up front will ease your mind and manage your expectations. DO A TRIAL RUN Nearly all photographers offer engagement shoots, either included in their wedding package prices or a-la-carte. If you’re on the fence about engagement photos, our advice is to go for it. An engagement session is a chance to get comfortable both with your photographer and together in front of the camera. CAPTURE MOMENTS THAT MATTER If there are friends and family that you want to be sure to snap a photo with or a particular time in the ceremony or reception that you want captured, it helps to put that in writing as well to help keep you and your photographer on track. Download our Ultimate Planner online at premierbride.com/planning where you’ll find a list of questions to ask your photographer and a checklist of can’t-miss moments. PremierBrideFlorida.com
